Frequently Asked Questions About the ELM

Is this an admission test?

No. The results of the test will not affect your admission to any CSU campus.

I have not yet been admitted. Can I still take the test?

Yes. You may take the ELM anytime, so long as it is taken before the deadline set at the campus where you wish to enroll. However, it is best if you take the test as soon as you apply to CSU. You must take the test before you can enroll in CSU General Education mathematics courses.

Do I need to take the ELM if I did well on tests such as the SAT®, AP® or ACT®?

No. If you scored 550 or above on the mathematics portion of the SAT® Reasoning Test, 550 or above on a College Board® SAT® Subject Test in Mathematics (Level 1 or Level 2), 23 or above on the ACT® math test, or 3 or above on an AP® mathematics test (Calculus AB, Calculus BC, or Statistics), you are exempt from the ELM examination. Transfer students may be exempt through transferred coursework.

What about the UC/CSU Mathematics Diagnostic Testing Program (MDTP) tests? I took one of those and did well. Do I have to take the ELM test?

Yes, you do. However, those are rigorous tests and are excellent indications of mathematics skills. If you scored well on the MDTP intermediate algebra examination, you should do well on the ELM examination.

I have a high GPA in my high school math classes. Do I still have to take the ELM?

Yes. GPA is not a consideration in determining whether or not you have to take the ELM. The only grounds for exemption are those listed under What is the ELM?

I am still unsure whether I am required to take the ELM test. What should I do?

The staff of the Admissions Office or the Test Office of the CSU campus that you plan to attend will be able to answer your questions.

Can I retake the ELM test?

Yes, but not during the same testing period. For a list of the testing periods see the “Purpose of the ELM” section of the EPT/ELM Information Bulletin.

May I use a calculator during the ELM exam?

No. The questions on the ELM do not require involved computation. Rather, the test includes problems that emphasize quantitative reasoning and problem solving.

Why are you testing math?

With science and technology playing an increasingly important role in our society, all college-bound students — not just those who show special aptitude or interest — must have an adequate grasp of mathematics. More and more undergraduate majors require some proficiency in math, and many require either calculus or statistics or both.

What is the relationship of this test to the graduation requirements of my campus?

Basic mathematics provides the necessary background for the CSU general education quantitative reasoning requirement, which consists of a course at the level of college algebra or higher. Such a course is required for graduation. Completion of the ELM requirement is prerequisite to that course.

How do I prepare for the test?

Studies have shown that if you do not continue to use the math you have learned, you may have trouble recalling simple principles. If you have taken less than three years of college preparatory mathematics or have not used your math knowledge in some time, additional work and review may be necessary. Sample ELM questions are available at www.csumathsuccess.org.

I had plenty of math in high school. Shouldn't I be ready for college-level math?

Probably. But if you have not had very much practice in using your math recently, you will still benefit from a review.

Suppose I don't do well on the test?

The CSU Early Start initiative will require students who do not perform well on the tests to start remediation during the summer before the freshman year. Students who score below 50 on the ELM will be required to participate in Early Start. Contact the CSU campus that you plan on attending for further information regarding Early Start.

Will I have to pay for extra help if I receive a low score?

That will depend on where you satisfy the Early Start requirement and if you qualify for financial aid. Early Start English and math courses will be available at all CSU campuses, at a few community colleges and online.

I will be out of the country on the first date available. What do I do?

You must take the test at the next opportunity. It is to your advantage to take the test as soon as possible, and you must take it before you can enroll in CSU General Education mathematics courses.

Must I take the test at the campus I will be attending?

No. Plan to take the test at whichever campus is most convenient for you. On the day of the test, you can select to have your scores reported to up to four CSU campuses.

How do I receive my test scores?

Your test scores will be mailed to you at an address you will provide on the day of the test. In addition, at the time of testing you will be asked to provide a personal identification number (PIN) so you can >retrieve your scores online. See the Test Dates for the score report release dates.

How long are my ELM testing materials and scores retained by ETS?

ETS retains answer sheets and test books for 18 months. Although answer sheets (not test books) are available for review at the ETS office in Concord, they may not be returned to students. ELM scores are retained for the life of the program and are available from 1983 to the present.