Testing & Placement
Everything you need to know about placement testing for new students.
Placement tests are open
Placement tests are open until 8:00 AM on Monday, January 12, 2026.
About Placement Testing
After being admitted to Rutgers—New Brunswick, students are required to complete placement tests in mathematics, English, and world language to determine appropriate course placement. These tests are administered exclusively online and are available 24/7 during each open testing cycle, allowing students to complete them at their convenience. There is no need to report to campus to take the tests.
Unlike standardized exams or traditional school tests, placement tests are designed to identify courses that align with students' current skill level. Students should approach these assessments with their best effort and complete them independently. Accurate results help ensure students begin their academic journey in classes best suited to their needs, setting them up for academic success from the start.
Placement tests cannot be "failed," and outcomes will not affect admission status or standing at Rutgers.
Testing Requirements for First-Year Students
Testing Timeline and Deadlines
All first-year students must complete their required placement tests within 30 days of accepting their offer of admission to Rutgers. Students awaiting accommodations processing by the Office of Disability Services are exempt from this initial deadline.
Once a student submits their first placement test, they are expected to complete all remaining subjects within 72 hours. Students may take all required tests consecutively or take breaks between subjects as needed.
Important: Students must complete all required placement tests before they can attend an academic planning and advising session or submit their course requests.
Specific Deadlines
- Students who accepted admission before March 1: Complete testing by March 30
- Students who accepted admission after March 1: Complete testing within 30 days of enrollment
- Students who accepted admission while testing was closed: Complete testing within 30 days of reopening
All other students: Complete testing by June 1
Required Placement Tests
Note: Some students may be exempt from certain tests. Refer to the "Exemptions" header for criteria.
English Placement Test
Required for all incoming first-year students.
For complete information, refer to the "English Test" header at the top of this page.
Math Placement Test (ALEKS®)
Required for all incoming first-year students.
The Math placement test may be taken up to two times. For complete information, refer to the "ALEKS Math Test" header above.
World Language Placement Test
Requirements vary by school. For complete information, refer to the "World Language Tests" header above.
World language testing is required for:
- All School of Arts and Sciences students
- International students who plan to study a language (other than English) at Rutgers
- Any student who intends to continue studying a world language at Rutgers
Accordion Content
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Some students may be exempt from the English and Math placement tests. If you are exempt from any placement test, you do not need to inform us as long as you have submitted all relevant scores to Rutgers. Scores included with your admissions application do not need to be resent.
Please refer to the "Exemptions" section at the top of this page for complete details.
Note: If you have accepted your admission offer and are waiting for your 2025 scores, or if you have not submitted any scores within 30 days of accepting your offer, you should take the placement test. Once the scores are received and approved, they will supersede the placement test results. All students are encouraged to take the placement tests to evaluate their current skills and ensure they select courses for which they are adequately prepared.
Students with Accommodations
Students requiring testing accommodations (such as extra time, a reader, or a scribe) must register with the Office of Disability Services (ODS Website) and receive approval before taking any placement tests.
Important Guidelines
- Do not take any placement tests until accommodations are approved. Test attempts cannot be reset once a student completes the general test.
- Once accommodations are approved, students will receive an email from our office within a few weeks with specific instructions and links to complete their accommodated tests.
- Most tests can only be taken once, except for the math placement test, which may be taken twice.
Extended Deadlines
Testing deadlines are automatically extended for students awaiting accommodations processing. The standard 30-day and 72-hour deadlines do not apply while accommodations are being processed.
Transfer and Continuing Students
Transfer students should only complete placement testing if advised to do so by a Rutgers advisor or if testing is indicated on their transfer credit summary/evaluation.
Students who have already submitted an official transcript to Rutgers should refer to the Transfer Credit Evaluation website to determine whether their evaluation has been completed and if placement testing is required.
Questions or Technical Issues?
Students with questions about placement tests or who encounter technical issues while testing should email otp@echo.rutgers.edu.
Note: Email is the preferred and most reliable method of contact, as it guarantees a response to all inquiries. Phone support is available (848-932-0573) but limited due to high demand. All emails are answered in the order received.
Email Guidelines for Students
To ensure a prompt response, students should follow these guidelines when emailing:
Use only your official Rutgers email address. We do not answer student inquiries from non-Rutgers email accounts.
Include your nine-digit RUID number in all correspondence.
Attach screenshots when possible to help illustrate technical issues.
Specify which test is causing issues and provide a brief description of the problem.
Response Times and Placement Processing
Email responses are provided in the order received within 1-3 business days during regular periods and up to 5-7 business days during high-volume periods. Students should not resend emails, as this delays responses for all students.
Please note that updated placements take 1-2 weeks to process and appear in the student portal. Students should wait for this processing period before inquiring about placement results.
Preparing for the Tests
Students are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the format, content, and time limit for each test by reviewing the information and sample questions linked below. Each test must be completed in one sitting without breaks, so students should plan accordingly and ensure they have sufficient uninterrupted time before beginning.
Important Reminders
Test attempts: With the exception of the math test, all placement tests can only be taken once. Students should complete the tests when they are feeling well and able to perform at their typical level.
Purpose of placement testing: Placement tests are designed to match students with courses that align with their current skill level—not to determine college readiness. There are no passing or failing scores. The goal is to ensure students start in the right courses, avoiding being misplaced or having to retake prerequisites later. To get the most accurate placement, students should complete the tests independently and give their best effort. Accurate placements are in their own best interest and help set them up for success from the beginning.
Testing Environment and Rules
Environment: Placement tests must be completed in a quiet, private location without distractions.
Prohibited materials and assistance:
Reference materials, books, notes, or study aids
Cell phones, calculators or other electronic devices
Generative AI tools (such as Grammarly, ChatGPT, Claude, or similar)
Outside assistance of any kind
Copyright notice: Test materials are copyrighted by Rutgers University or McGraw-Hill and may not be copied, shared, or distributed.
Accordion Content
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Total time: 90 minutes
The English test consists of four sections:
- A language survey (5 minutes)
- An essay (20 minutes)
- Reading comprehension (35 minutes)
- Sentence sense (30 minutes)
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Total time allotted: 3 hours (most students complete the test in 60-90 minutes)
The math test consists of up to 30 open-ended, adaptive questions. The test adapts based on student responses, meaning each answer determines subsequent questions.
Important notes:
- The math test is the only placement test that may be taken twice.
- A tools tutorial at the beginning of the test demonstrates how to enter answers.
- Calculators are not permitted; an on-screen calculator will be provided IF required.
- Scrap paper is permitted.
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Time varies by language
The format and time requirement of the world language test depend on the specific language selected. Refer to the "World Language Tests" section for detailed information about each language.
Understanding Time Limits
During Each Test
Once a test begins, students must complete it within the allotted time without pausing.
Submitting Tests
After submitting the first placement test, students must complete all remaining required tests within 72 hours; they may complete all tests back-to-back or take breaks between subjects.
Before Beginning Any Tests
Students should ensure:
They are feeling well and able to focus
They have a strong, stable internet connection
They are using a compatible laptop or desktop computer (cell phones are not permitted)
If Technical Issues Occur
Students should stop testing immediately and not submit the test.
They should email the placement testing office with:
Their NetID
Their nine-digit RUID number
A brief description of the issue
A screenshot, if possible
Technical Access to the Tests
There is no fee for placement tests. Students must pay their Rutgers acceptance fee before accessing the tests, as this payment activates the NetID required to log into the testing platforms. Test access is available within two (2) business days of acceptance fee payment.
Academic Integrity
Independent Work Required
Students must complete placement tests independently, using only their own knowledge and skills. Accurate results ensure appropriate course placement, which is essential for academic success. Incorrect placement due to dishonest testing can lead to lower GPAs, repeated coursework, and delayed graduation.
Cheating on placement tests violates Rutgers' academic integrity policy and may result in disciplinary action.
Technology Required for Testing
All placement tests are completed online. Students should verify that their computer meets the technology requirements outlined below before starting any test. This section also includes solutions to common technical issues.
Accordion Content
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- Students must use a laptop or desktop to complete a test; a cell phone or tablet device will not work properly.
- Students must have a strong, secure internet connection; using a "hotspot" may disrupt testing and, therefore, can affect placement results.
- Students using a school-issued computer or public computer may not be able to download the necessary software, as is the case for the ALEKS math test. Therefore, students should plan to use an alternative, compatible computer.
- Students who are ultimately unable to access/borrow a compatible computer to complete their placement tests, should contact the Testing and Placement office immediately for alternative on-campus online testing options.
- International students encountering technical difficulties while trying to complete their tests aboard, should notify the Testing and Placement Office immediately for further guidance.
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- A computer or laptop with a functioning microphone, speaker and camera.
- A strong internet connection (not a mobile hotspot).
- The ability to download the monitoring software: Respondus Lockdown Browser.
*If you need help with downloading the Respondus Lockdown Browser, email the Testing and Placement Office with a brief description of your issue (and screenshot if possible).
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- Computer or laptop with a functioning speaker.
- A strong internet connection (not a mobile hotspot).
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- A computer or laptop with a functioning microphone and speaker.
- A strong internet connection (not a mobile hotspot).
Getting Your Results
Processing Times
Placements are typically available within 1-2 weeks after completing a test. Manually graded language tests may take several weeks to process.
How to Access Placement Results
Students can find their placements in one of two locations:
Option 1: myRutgers Dashboard (for incoming students): Navigate to the "My Enrollment: Required" section of the myRutgers dashboard.
Option 2: Degree Navigator
Log in to Degree Navigator (DN)
Click the "My Course List" tab on the left
Scroll to the bottom of the list to view all processed placements
Click any course/placement code hyperlink for the full placement description
For assistance interpreting math test results, refer to the math placement guide.
After Receiving Your Placement
For Incoming First-Year Students
Students should register for and attend their advising day even if they are still waiting for placement results or are unsure of their placements. Advisors can access processed placements and provide guidance on course selection.
Important notes:
An English placement status of "DPT" indicates the test is under departmental review. Placements will be updated once the Writing Program faculty completes their review.
Students placed into a English or math course for which they submitted qualifying AP scores through CollegeBoard should not be concerned. Academic deans will review AP credits before finalizing schedules.
For Upperclass Students
Students who need a placement to register for a course can register via WebReg once the appropriate placement appears on file (via Degree Navigator).
Consider Retaking the Math Test
Students may take the math placement test up to two (2) times, provided:
Both attempts occur within 365 days of each other
The student has not completed a math course based on their first placement. For example, a student who placed in 640:PCA and completed a Precalculus course is not eligible to retest.
For complete information about math retesting, refer to the "ALEKS Math Test" section on this page.
Strongly recommended: Rutgers Business School and STEM-major students who do not place into Calculus I on the first attempt are strongly encouraged to retest.
About the ALEKS® Math Test
Overview
Rutgers—New Brunswick uses the ALEKS® PPL (McGraw-Hill) placement test, an adaptive learning platform widely used by universities nationwide. The test consists of up to 30 open-ended questions (not multiple choice) and allows up to 3 hours to complete, though most students finish in 60-90 minutes.
Adaptive testing: The test adapts based on student responses, meaning each answer determines subsequent questions. Students cannot go back to review or change previous answers. A tools tutorial at the beginning of the test demonstrates how to enter answers.
Note: Refer to this link for Mandarin Math Test Instructions.
Technology Requirements
Required software: Respondus Lockdown Browser™ must be downloaded prior to testing. Public or school-issued computers may not allow download capabilities.
Equipment needed:
Functioning webcam, microphone, and speaker (required for Respondus Monitor)
Click here to check system requirements and ensure compatibility
Photo ID: Students will be asked to show a photo ID during testing. Any photo ID is acceptable (high school ID, driver's license, etc.).
Parental consent: Students under 18 must obtain parental or guardian consent before testing. Click here for the Consent Form
Can’t access a computer? Students without access to the necessary technology should email otp@echo.rutgers.edu.
Taking the Test
Login: Use your Rutgers NetID (e.g., abc123), not your nine-digit RUID number. Select CONTINUE and proceed to the test.
During the test:
Do not use a personal calculator. An on-screen calculator will be provided IF required.
Scrap paper is permitted and must be disposed of after testing.
Do not use the browser back button, as this may cause inaccurate results.
The test must be completed in one sitting without breaks.
After the first test: Students must complete all remaining required placement tests within 72 hours. Tests may be completed consecutively or with breaks between subjects.
Video overview: Watch a brief overview of the ALEKS® program below:
Technical Problems?
If technical issues occur during testing, students should stop immediately and email otp@echo.rutgers.edu from their Rutgers email with:
Their RUID number
Exact description of the issue
Screenshot (if possible)
Retaking the Math Test
Eligibility
Students may take the math placement test up to two times, provided they:
Have not completed a math course at Rutgers after the first attempt. For example, a student who placed in 640:PCA and completed a Precalculus course is not eligible to retest.
and
Complete the second attempt within 365 days of the first attempt
Unlike initial placement tests, the math retest does not need to be completed within the 72-hour timeframe but should be completed as soon as possible.
How to Unlock the Second Attempt
To access the second test, students must complete 8 hours of customized prep and learning modules in ALEKS after a 48-hour waiting period. The same link used for the first attempt is used to access the second attempt.
Timing: For optimal results, students should retest soon after completing the learning modules, but no later than one year (365 days) from their first attempt.
Scoring: The higher of the two test scores will be used for placement. No additional retesting opportunities are available beyond these two attempts.
Strongly recommended: Rutgers Business School and STEM-major students who do not place into Calculus I on the first attempt are strongly encouraged to retest.
Understanding the Learning Modules
The ALEKS placement testing system identifies specific areas where students need improvement and creates customized learning modules tailored to those areas. This allows students to address skill gaps without taking an entire course, ensuring they begin in the appropriate math course.
Common reasons for lower-than-expected scores:
Rustiness on certain topics from lack of recent practice
Variation in topic emphasis across different high schools or previous coursework
The customized ALEKS modules address these gaps by focusing practice on the specific concepts where the student struggled during their first attempt.
Working through the learning modules and retaking the test provides two key benefits:
Potentially higher placement into a course better aligned with current abilities.
Stronger foundation in prerequisite material, preparing students for success in their math coursework at Rutgers.
Topics & Sample Questions
- Real numbers (fractions, integers, and percentages)
- Equations and inequalities (linear equations, linear inequalities, systems of linear equations, and quadratic equations)
- Linear and quadratic functions (graphs and functions, linear functions, and parabolas), exponents and polynomials (integer exponents, polynomial arithmetic, factoring, and polynomial equations), rational expressions (rational equations and rational functions)
- Radical expressions (higher roots and rational exponents)
- Exponentials and logarithms (function compositions and inverse functions, properties of logarithms, and logarithmic equations)
- Geometry and trigonometry (perimeter, area, and volume, coordinate geometry, trigonometric functions, and identities and equations).
For additional practice, see the final exam review exercises for each course:
On the test, you will see some, but not all, of the math you have learned previously. It is a placement test, not a preview of math courses at Rutgers (NB). It is designed to identify if you are prepared for a particular course.
Access to the Math Test
THE ALEKS® TEST
After completing the test, math placements are typically available within a week.
Interpreting your ALEKS Score
ALEKS Scores and Placements (by School)
Here you'll find your school's ALEKS score chart to interpret your score and Rutgers math placement.
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ALEKS Score Placement Level 0-13 CMP – Computational Skills (Math 001 + 025) 14-29 EAL – Elementary Algebra (Math 025) 30-45 IMA – Intermediate Math (Intermediate Algebra 026 or Math 103/106/107) 46-60 CMA – College Mathematics (Precalculus 111 or Math 104) 61-75 PCA – Precalculus (Math 115) 76-84 CLG – Calculus 135 85-100 CLS – Calculus 151 or 135 Questions about your math level (or associated courses) and your academic progress?
First years: contact firstyears@sas.rutgers.edu
Transfers: contact transfers@sas.rutgers.edu
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ALEKS Score Placement Level 0-13 CMP – Computational Skills (Math 001 + 025) 14-29 EAL – Elementary Algebra (Math 025) 30-45 IMA – Intermediate Math (Intermediate Algebra 026 or Math 103/106/107) 46-60 CMA – College Mathematics (Precalculus 111 or Math 104) 61-75 PCA – Precalculus (Math 115) 76-84 CLG – Calculus 135 85-100 CLS – Calculus 151 or 135 Questions about your math level (or associated courses) and your academic progress?
Contact advisement@mgsa.rutgers.edu
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ALEKS Score Placement Level 0-13 CMP – Computational Skills (Math 001 + 025) 14-29 EAL – Elementary Algebra (Math 025) 30-45 IMA – Intermediate Math (Intermediate Algebra 026 or Math 103/106/107) 46-60 CMA – College Mathematics (Precalculus 111 or Math 104) 61-75 PCA – Precalculus (Math 115) 76-84 CLG – Calculus 135 (or Precalculus 115 if your major requires Calculus for Math and Physical Sciences 151) 85-100 CLS – Calculus 151 or 135 Questions about your math level (or associated courses) and your academic progress?
First years: contact first_year@sebs.rutgers.edu
Transfers: contact transfers@sebs.rutgers.edu
All others: contact recordsclerk@sebs.rutgers.edu
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ALEKS Score Placement Level 0-13 CMP – Computational Skills (Math 001 + 025) 14-29 EAL – Elementary Algebra (Math 025) 30-45 IMA – Intermediate Algebra (Math 026) 46-60 CMA – Precalculus Part 1 (Taken over 2 semesters, start with Math 111) 61-84 PCA – Precalculus (One semester course, Math 115) *80-84 Calculus 157 + 151 (*with special permission) 85-100 CLS – Calculus 151 Note: SOE students are encouraged to take the test twice if their score is less than 85.
Questions about your math level (or associated courses) and your academic progress?
First years: contact firstyear@soe.rutgers.edu
Transfers: contact transfer@soe.rutgers.edu
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ALEKS Score Placement Level 0-13 CMP – Computational Skills (Math 001 + 025) 14-29 EAL – Elementary Algebra (Math 025) 30-45 IMA – Intermediate Algebra (Math 026) 46-60 CMA – Precalculus Part 1 (Taken over 2 semesters, start with Math 111) 61-75 PCA – Precalculus (One semester course, Math 115) 76-84 CLG – Calculus 135 85-100 CLS – Calculus 151 or 135 Questions about your math level (or associated courses) and your academic progress?
Contact laura.sclafani@pharmacy.rutgers.edu or geriurb@rci.rutgers.edu
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ALEKS Score Placement Level 0-13 CMP – Computational Skills (Math 001 + 025) 14-29 EAL – Elementary Algebra (Math 025) 30-45 IMA – Intermediate Algebra (Math 026) 46-60 CMA – Precalculus Part 1 (Taken over 2 semesters, start with Math 111) 61-75 PCA – Precalculus (One semester course, Math 115) 76-84 CLG – Calculus 135 85-100 CLS – Calculus 151 or 135 Questions about your math level (or associated courses) and your academic progress?
First years: contact firstyears@business.rutgers.edu
Transfers: contact externaltransfers@business.rutgers.edu
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ALEKS Score Placement Level 0-13 CMP – Computational Skills (Math 001 + 025) 14-29 EAL – Elementary Algebra (Math 025) 30-45 IMA – Intermediate Algebra (Math 026) 46-60 CMA – Precalculus Part 1 (Taken over 2 semesters, start with Math 111) 61-75 PCA – Precalculus (One semester course, Math 115) 76-84 CLG – Calculus 135 85-100 CLS – Calculus 151 or 135 Questions about your math level (or associated courses) and your academic progress?
First Years: contact firstyear_nb@sn.rutgers.edu
All others: contact advising@sn.rutgers.edu
If your school is not listed, contact otp@echo.rutgers.edu
About the English Placement Test
Overview
The English test is not an English proficiency exam. Proficiency exams measure general English language ability. The placement test identifies the appropriate academic writing course for each student based on their current skills.
The English placement test is delivered through the eLearning online platform and must be completed in one sitting. Students should allow approximately 90 minutes to complete all four sections. This test can only be taken once—there are no retesting opportunities. Because results determine English course placement, students should take this test seriously and begin only if they are feeling well and can dedicate the full 90 minutes without interruption.
Processing time: English placements are typically available within 1-2 weeks after completing the test.
| Section | Questions/Tasks | Time Alloted |
|---|---|---|
| Survey | 5 questions | 5 minutes |
| Essay | 1 essay | 20 minutes |
| Reading Comprehension | 36 questions | 35 minutes |
| Sentence Sense | 46 questions | 30 minutes |
About Each Section
Accordion Content
Find more information on each section of the English test below.
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This section consists of a brief questionnaire about students' language experience in reading, writing, and speaking.
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Students write one essay on an assigned topic within 20 minutes.
What is evaluated:
How well ideas are phrased and organized
Use of specific examples to support ideas
Clarity and effectiveness of expression
Important notes:
Students should read the topic carefully before beginning
Quality of writing is more important than quantity, though students may need to write multiple paragraphs to adequately address the topic
This essay provides an opportunity to demonstrate writing ability
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This section measures reading comprehension skills through questions based on provided passages.
Format: Students select the best answer from four options for each question.
What is tested:
Understanding of specific passages
Ability to interpret both stated and implied information
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This section measures understanding of sentence structure and clarity.
What is tested:
Identifying and correcting sentence errors
Rewriting sentences for improved structure or emphasis
Expressing ideas clearly and accurately
Coordinating or subordinating ideas within sentences
Recognizing complete sentences
Question types:
Identifying faults in sentences and making corrections
Recasting sentences to change structure or emphasis (similar to editing tasks)
Focus: Questions emphasize sentence structure and logic rather than traditional grammar rules.
Sample English Test Questions
Access to the English Test
The test is delivered through the eLearning platform. The test must be completed in one sitting – allow approximately 90 minutes. Incoming students must complete all required placement tests within 72 hours of starting their first test.
After completing the test, English placements are typically available within 1-2 weeks.
About World Language Testing
Students should only take placement tests for languages in which they have prior experience. The test assesses incoming knowledge level, not proficiency or future study plans.
Important guidelines:
Taking a placement test fulfills the language requirement but does not obligate students to continue studying that language at Rutgers
Students do not need to be proficient or plan to continue studying the language to take the test
- Students should take this test seriously since each language test can only be taken once. Results may later be needed for study abroad programs, certain minors, or other academic opportunities
There is no limit to how many language tests students can take
Students with experience in multiple languages should test in the language they are most likely to study in college
Do NOT test if:
Students have no background in the language
Students plan to start a new world language at Rutgers (they will begin at the elementary level instead)
American Sign Language (ASL) note: Rutgers does not offer an ASL placement test. Students without experience in any other offered world language are exempt from world language placement testing.
Exemptions and Credits
There are no exemptions for world language testing (e.g., IB exams, dual enrollment); therefore, those students must complete the respective world language test. However, students may receive credit after their school deans review their transcripts. Refer to the "Exemptions" section for more information.
Who Must Take the World Language Test
Required for:
All incoming School of Arts and Sciences (SAS) first-year students
SEBS students planning to complete the 5-year Ed.M. for New Jersey Teacher Certification
International students who plan to study a language (other than English) at Rutgers
Any student with experience in a language who wishes to continue studying it at Rutgers
Optional for:
Rutgers Business School (RBS) students
Mason Gross School of the Arts (MGSA) students
School of Nursing (SoN) students
School of Engineering (SoE) students
SEBS students not planning to complete the 5-year Ed.M. teaching certification
Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy (EMSOP) students
List of the Language Tests We Offer
Reminder: Students must complete all required placement tests within 72 hours of completing their first test. Tests may be completed consecutively or with breaks between subjects.
| Language | Maximum Time |
| Arabic* | 142 minutes |
| Chinese* | 110 minutes |
| French | Adaptive-Time varies |
| German | 75 minutes |
| Hindi* | 195 minutes |
| Italian | 85 minutes |
| Japanese* | 210 minutes |
| Korean (Heritage)* | 155 minutes |
| Korean (Non-Heritage)* | 145 minutes |
| Latin | 120 minutes |
| Persian* | 390 minutes |
| Polish* | 180 minutes |
| Portuguese | 60 minutes |
| Russian* | 135 minutes |
| Spanish | 115 minutes |
Tests Requiring Department Arrangement
The following tests must be arranged directly with the department. Click each language name to email the appropriate contact:
*Manually Graded Tests
Tests marked with an asterisk (*) are manually graded and typically take longer than the standard two weeks to process. First-year students should not be concerned if their language requirement is not marked complete in the student portal after taking the test. Students should continue with their enrollment pathway while placements are being determined.
Follow-up: Students may contact the Testing and Placement office to check on placement status after 4-6 weeks.
Accessing the Tests
OUR ONLINE WORLD LANGUAGE TESTS
Click on the appropriate link below for the language test you wish to take. For eLearning tests, you will select the language from the drop-down menu after logging in.
With the exception of manually graded tests, world language placements are typically available within 1-2 weeks of completing the test.
Questions or Technical Issues?
Students should email the Testing and Placement office for more assistance: otp@echo.rutgers.edu.
About Exemptions
Overview
Math and English testing are required unless students qualify for an exemption. Students who meet exemption criteria and have already sent qualifying scores to Rutgers are exempt from the entire test and should not complete any portion of it.
Important: AP exams must have been completed in 2024 or earlier to qualify for placement testing exemptions.
Senior Year Scores and Credits
Senior year AP exams, IB exams, and college transfer credits will not exempt first-year students from Rutgers placement testing. However, these will be evaluated once official scores or transcripts are received, and any awarded credits will override placement test results. Students should complete all required placement tests by June 1.
Exemption Criteria
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Students are exempt from math placement testing if they have:
AP Exam in Calculus AB or BC with a score of 4 or 5 (completed before 2025)
AP Calculus AB subscore of 4 or 5 on the AP Calculus BC test (completed before 2025)
Students with these AP exemptions will receive credit for Calculus.
Precalculus exemptions (school-specific):
AP Exam in Precalculus with a score of 4 or 5 (completed before 2025):
SAS, SOE, RBS, SON, and SEBS students: Exempt from math placement test and will receive AP credit for Precalculus
EMSOP students: Exempt from math placement test but will not receive AP credit for Precalculus
Note: Math SAT or ACT scores do not provide any exemption from placement testing.
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Students are exempt from English placement testing if they have:
Evidence-Based Reading & Writing (EBRW) SAT score of 650 or higher (by January 2025 test)
ACT Reading score of 28 or higher (by January 2025 test)
Students with SAT/ACT exemptions will be automatically placed into College Writing 101.
OR
AP Exam in English Language/Composition with a score of 4 or 5 (completed before 2025)
AP Exam in English Literature/Composition with a score of 4 or 5 (completed before 2025)
Students with AP exemptions will receive credit for College Writing 101.
Dual Enrollment
Please note that dual enrollment exemptions only count if your academic transcript has been sent to Rutgers. No further action is needed if your official transcript was sent to Rutgers with your application.
Senior-year dual enrollment college credits do not exempt first-year students from their Rutgers placement tests.
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- If you have credit for the equivalent of 01:355:101 College Writing (already completed with a C or better before Senior Year), you are exempt from the English placement test if your academic transcript was sent to Rutgers with your application. No further action needs to be taken.
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- If you have credit for the equivalent Rutgers Math course (already completed with a C or better before Senior Year), you are exempt from the Math placement test if your academic transcript was sent to Rutgers with your application. No further action needs to be taken.
World Language Exemptions
World language placement testing is required for all School of Arts and Sciences students and international students who plan to study a language at Rutgers.
No exemptions available: IB exams and dual enrollment credits do not exempt students from world language testing; therefore, those students must complete the respective world language test. However, students may receive credit after their school deans review transcripts. Refer to the "World Language Placement Test" section for language requirements by school.
American Sign Language (ASL) note: Rutgers does not offer an ASL placement test. Students without experience in any other offered world language are exempt from world language placement testing. No further action is required.
Transfer Students
Transfer students may be exempt from placement tests. Students should only complete placement testing if advised by a Rutgers advisor or if indicated on their transfer credit summary/evaluation.
Note: Review the Transfer Credit Evaluation site to check if an evaluation has been completed.
Sending Exemption Scores
How to Send ACT, SAT, and AP Scores
Exemptions are only valid after official qualifying scores have been sent to Rutgers. Students who have already sent scores do not need to resend them.
Submission links:
Sending Transcripts for College-Level Academic Credits
How to Send Transcripts (by school)
Students seeking college-level academic credit must have official transcripts sent directly from the credit-granting college or university to Rutgers. Transcripts sent by students or included on high school transcripts cannot be used to award credit.
Instructions for sending transcripts vary by school. Refer to your school's specific guidelines below for their academic credit transfer policy and transcript submission address.
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Transcripts sent directly from students and high school transcripts cannot be used to award credit. Transcripts must be sent directly from the college that you earned the credit from.
- Electronically (preferred)
If needed, the CEEB code is 002765. If an email address is needed as the recipient, then have it sent to transcripts@admissions.rutgers.edu. (This email address should be used for transcripts only.) - Postal mail
Paper transcripts should be sent to:- University Enrollment Services Admissions Processing
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
65 Davidson Road, Room 308
Piscataway, NJ 08854
- University Enrollment Services Admissions Processing
Find more information on the SAS page HERE.
- Electronically (preferred)
-
Transcripts sent directly from students and high school transcripts cannot be used to award credit. Transcripts must be sent directly from the college that you earned the credit from.
- Electronically (preferred)
If needed, the CEEB code is 002765. If an email address is needed as the recipient, then have it sent to transcripts@admissions.rutgers.edu. (This email address should be used for transcripts only.) - Postal mail
Paper transcripts should be sent to:- University Enrollment Services Admissions Processing
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
65 Davidson Road, Room 308
Piscataway, NJ 08854
- University Enrollment Services Admissions Processing
Find more information on the RBS page HERE.
- Electronically (preferred)
-
Transcripts sent directly from students and high school transcripts cannot be used to award credit. Transcripts must be sent directly from the college that you earned the credit from.
- Electronically (preferred)
If needed, the CEEB code is 002765. If an email address is needed as the recipient, then have it sent to transcripts@admissions.rutgers.edu. (This email address should be used for transcripts only.) - Postal mail
Paper transcripts should be sent to:- University Enrollment Services Admissions Processing
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
65 Davidson Road, Room 308
Piscataway, NJ 08854
- University Enrollment Services Admissions Processing
Find more information on the SoE page HERE.
- Electronically (preferred)
-
Transcripts sent directly from students and high school transcripts cannot be used to award credit. Transcripts must be sent directly from the college that you earned the credit from.
- Electronically (preferred)
If needed, the CEEB code is 002765. If an email address is needed as the recipient, then have it sent to transcripts@admissions.rutgers.edu. (This email address should be used for transcripts only.) - Postal mail
Paper transcripts should be sent to:- University Enrollment Services Admissions Processing
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
65 Davidson Road, Room 308
Piscataway, NJ 08854
- University Enrollment Services Admissions Processing
Find more information on the SEBS page HERE.
- Electronically (preferred)
-
Transcripts sent directly from students and high school transcripts cannot be used to award credit. Transcripts must be sent directly from the college that you earned the credit from.
- Electronically (preferred)
If needed, the CEEB code is 002765. If an email address is needed as the recipient, then have it sent to transcripts@admissions.rutgers.edu. (This email address should be used for transcripts only.) - Postal mail
Paper transcripts should be sent to:- University Enrollment Services Admissions Processing
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
65 Davidson Road, Suite 301
Piscataway, NJ 08854
- University Enrollment Services Admissions Processing
Find more information on the MGSA page HERE.
- Electronically (preferred)
-
Transcripts sent directly from students and high school transcripts cannot be used to award credit. Transcripts must be sent directly from the college that you earned the credit from.
- Electronically (preferred)
If needed, the CEEB code is 002765. If an email address is needed as the recipient, then have it sent to transcripts@admissions.rutgers.edu. (This email address should be used for transcripts only.) - Paper transcripts should be sent to:
- University Enrollment Services Admissions Processing
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
65 Davidson Road, Room 308
Piscataway, NJ 08854
- University Enrollment Services Admissions Processing
Find more information on the SoN page HERE.
- Electronically (preferred)
-
To find transcript instructions for EMSOP and a list of their Frequently Asked Questions, visit their page HERE.
R U Exempt?
If so, check out these Dos and Don'ts
-
✓ Send qualifying scores or transcripts if not already submitted to Rutgers
✓ Check Degree Navigator periodically to confirm your exemption has been processed
✓ Be patient with processing times – exemptions take several weeks, and dual enrollment credits are often not reviewed until late summer
✓ Continue with your enrollment pathway while exemptions are processed – if you sent scores and meet the criteria, you're all set
✓ Follow up after 6 weeks if you still don't see a placement listed
✓ Take the placement test if concerned about delays or exemption criteria – approved exemptions will override test results
-
✗ Resend scores already submitted with your admission application
✗ Feel pressured to test – taking the test is optional if you’re exempt, and exemptions will override results if you do test
Questions about transcripts and credits?
For questions regarding college-level academic credits and courses, please contact the appropriate advising office:
School of Arts and Sciences (SAS)
- First-year students: firstyears@sas.rutgers.edu
- Transfer students: transfers@sas.rutgers.edu
School of Environmental and Biological Sciences (SEBS)
- First-year students: first_year@sebs.rutgers.edu
- Transfer students: transfers@sebs.rutgers.edu
School of Engineering (SOE)
- First-year students: firstyear@soe.rutgers.edu
- Transfer students: transfer@soe.rutgers.edu
School of Nursing (SoN)
- First-year students: firstyear_nb@sn.rutgers.edu
Mason Gross School of the Arts (MGSA)
- First-year & Transfer students: advisement@mgsa.rutgers.edu
Rutgers Business School (RBS)
- First-year students: firstyears@business.rutgers.edu
- Transfer students: alexandra.charles@business.rutgers.edu
Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy
- First-year & Transfer students: academicservices@pharmacy.rutgers.edu
Helpful Handouts
Click the hyperlink to open a handout, and be sure to read it thoroughly.
Interpret Your Math/Chemistry Placement
Interpret Your English Placement