The Chemistry Placement Exam is required for all students prior to placement into CHEM 121 (General Chemistry I) without CHEM 103 (Preparatory Chemistry). This is a multiple-choice exam consisting of 22 questions to assess a student's level of preparation in chemistry and math. In order to be placed into CHEM 121, the student must correctly answer 16 or more questions (72.7%). A lower score places the student into CHEM 103. A passing grade of C in CHEM 103 is required for a student to matriculate into CHEM 121. The 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry does not permit alternative examinations to the placement exam.
Please see the for pre- and corequisite requirements for CHEM 103, CHEM 121A and CHEM 121L.
Starting June 1, 2024, the Chemistry Placement Exam will only be offered in-person through the 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ Testing Center.
The 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ Testing Center offers in-person proctoring for the Chemistry Placement exam Monday-Friday at 11 a.m. or 1 p.m. In order to schedule, submit an a minimum of three (3) business days prior to the desired exam date. Same day appointments and walk-ins are not available. An online option for the exam is not available. All testing is performed in-person at the Campus Resource Center on the 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ Maryland Campus.
Exam Details
The time allotted for the exam is 45 minutes. There is no fee. Passing scores are valid for two-years from the date of the exam.
A student may not repeat the Chemistry Placement Exam within three months of their first attempt. Only one repeat attempt is allowed. Students who do not achieve a score of at least 16 on their first or second attempt are required to take CHEM 103.
Students who achieve a passing score will receive permission to enroll in My51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ within a week of the exam date.