If you're thinking of starting our program, we strongly advise students to have a firm grasp of Calculus before enrolling in the other science courses (such as Chemistry and Physics). Because most of the courses require a base knowledge of Calculus, you may want to start off taking either Math XL 1 (Precalculus) or Math XL 31A (Calculus Part I). Students typically start with General Chemistry (Chem XL 14A) and General Biology (LifeSci XL 7A).
If you are unsure where you stand in your mathematics level, the following courses offer a preliminary examination on the “See Details” section of their course page:
- Math XL 1
- Math XL 31A
This mandatory preliminary examination does not count towards your grade, nor will it prevent you from remaining in the course. An exam is merely a diagnostic tool designed to help you determine what mathematics course level is appropriate for you.
Based on your score, you have the choice to switch to another course or remain enrolled. Furthermore, the results of the exam will help you better understand exactly where you are in your math so that you have a better idea of what lies ahead for the rest of the quarter and also help you in considering hiring a tutor. The exam must be taken by all students before the start of the classes listed above and students are required to take it, regardless of their academic history or prior math credits. To register for the math placement, please follow this link: Math Placement