What is the ELM?

The ELM is a one-time assessment that helps CSU determine what mathematics courses you should take upon enrollment.

Test Description

The test consists of 50 questions that you have 90 minutes to answer. The topics covered include numbers and data, algebra and geometry.

• Topics tested by the ELM  
• Sample questions  

You may be exempt. You do not have to take the ELM if you present proof of one of the following:

• placement in the "Ready for CSU College-level mathematics courses" category on the Early Assessment Program (EAP) Mathematics taken in conjunction with the 11th grade California Standards Test in Summative High School Mathematics or Algebra II
• placement in the "Ready for CSU College-level mathematics courses - Conditional" category on the Early Assessment Program (EAP) Mathematics taken in conjunction with the 11th grade California Standards Test in Summative High School Mathematics or Algebra II, PLUS successful completion of a CSU-approved math or math-related course or activity taken before you enroll at a CSU campus
• a score of 550 or above on the mathematics portion of the College Board SAT Reasoning Test
• a score of 550 or above on a College Board SAT Subject Test in Mathematics (level 1 or level 2)
• a score of 23 or above on the ACT® Mathematics Test taken October 1989 or later
• a score of 3 or above on the College Board Advanced Placement Calculus AB or Calculus BC examination
• a score of 3 or above on the College Board Advanced Placement Statistics examination
• completion and transfer to CSU of a college course that satisfies the requirement in Quantitative Reasoning, provided such a course was completed with a grade of C or better

How much does it cost?

The fee for taking the ELM is $18. This fee is nonrefundable and subject to change. Some campuses charge a slightly higher ELM fee for some of the testing dates listed. Please contact the test office at the campus where you plan to take the test to find out if this fee applies.

Additional Information

For more details about the ELM and additional sample questions, download Focus on Mathematics (PDF), ELM Problem Book (PDF) or visit www.csumathsuccess.org.