Placement Testing

Placement tests are required of all new, incoming students who have not yet completed college-level English, mathematics or foreign language coursework. Testing in English and mathematics is required of all students, regardless of age (**foreign language testing is optional – see below**). Transfer students may not be required to take the tests if they have completed college-level, transferable coursework that provides an indication of the level of mathematics, writing or foreign language already successfully accomplished.

Placement tests are designed to help determine which of the English, math and foreign language courses are the best place for you to start within a given sequence of instruction. All University of Wisconsin students, regardless of major, are required to acquire specific proficiencies in mathematics and writing to earn an associate or a bachelor's degree. Many majors also require evidence of experience with a foreign language either at the high school or college level (please see your advisor for specific requirements). 

The placement tests are specific to the UW System; tests from other colleges and universities outside the UW System do not replace these placement tests. 

Students are allowed 90 minutes for each of the English and mathematics tests. The optional foreign language tests are 60 minutes. Although a calculator is not required, test-takers may use a non-graphing calculator during the mathematics test. The use of calculators on other electronic devices (e.g. cell phones, etc.) is prohibited. Calculators will not be provided. 

The standard fee for the group of placement tests per test day is $40, regardless of the number of tests taken. This $40 fee will be added to each degree-seeking student’s tuition and fees account – no advance payment for testing is required. This fee does not negate fee responsibility at any four-year UW institution.

Available dates are listed on the UW Placement Test Site. Plan to take your placement tests at least ten business days prior to your advising date or before meeting with your advisor (transfer students).  This permits the return of the results and scoring that will be used to help select the appropriate classes when you register. 

Please plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before the noted test start time to locate the test site. The tests begin promptly at the time listed. Late arrivals will not be admitted and must take the tests at a later date. 

The University of Wisconsin requires students to show a government-issued photo identification document such as driver’s license, state-issued ID or passport when they arrive to take placement tests. A high school photo ID with full name listed is also acceptable. Students will not be allowed to test without providing an appropriate photo ID. If you would like a non-graphing calculator for the math section, please bring that as well.

Campus Placement Testing

In-person placement tests are held on our Rice Lake campus and are proctored by a staff member. You must schedule an in-person placement testing that is taking place at least 10 days before your Orientation date. Please note that it takes about one week for tests taken in person to be scored and sent to UW-Eau Claire. We highly recommend that you take them as soon as possible to ensure you're able to register for your classes on time.

The following dates are available for in-person testing: 

Thursday, May 30th from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm - Register here. 

Thursday, June 27th from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm - Register here.

Tuesday, July 30th from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm - Register here. 

Monday, August 26th from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm - Register here.

Please email Sara Potter at pottersk@uwec.edu with questions about your placement tests. 

Regional Placement Testing

Registration is now open. 

• Go to the UW Placement Test Site - Registration Opens February 1.
• Scroll down and click on the “Follow this link to register for any testing options.”
• Select option 1 by clicking on the “Show Paper and Pencil dates” link.
• Click on the campus and date you are interested in taking the exam.
• Enter requested information:
  • email address
  • last name
  • first name
  • Date of birth
  • Are you taking the foreign exam?
  • Campus you are planning on attending
• Hit continue.
• Verify information.

A $40 test fee will be assessed to your tuition bill.

After scheduling your UW Placement Test date, register for your Orientation!