Math Placement Exam (MAPE) Information Hub
Before their first term, new students may have the option to take the Math Placement Exam (MAPE) to demonstrate eligibility for more advanced math coursework.
The exam is offered at different levels. Many students will not need to take the exam because they are already calculus-ready or their current placement already allows enrollment in the math course required by their major.
If the Math Placement Exam is available to you, it will appear as an option in your Math Placement Action Plan in your Admissions Portal.
What the MAPE Can and Cannot Do:
The MAPE may:
- Demonstrate eligibility for more advanced lower-division math coursework, up to Calculus I.
The MAPE does not:
- Lower placement, regardless of outcome.
- Confer credit in any Cal Poly math course.
For more specific information about this process, please use the links below:
Summer Math Placement: Step-by-Step
This section explains what happens during summer math placement and what options students may have. Not every step applies to every student. Your Admissions portal will guide you if any action is needed.
How Does Math Placement Work / What Is My Placement?
A detailed description of the criteria we use to determine eligibility for MATH courses.
What Do I Need to Do Next?
Once you have completed the Initial Math Placement Survey, confirmed Cal Poly, and
reviewed your math placement and major's math requirement, explore your next steps.
How to Take the MAPE
Students who wish to take the Math Placement Exam can do so in one of three ways:
- online during the summer,
- in person during WOW (Week of Welcome), or
- as part of an Early Start Math (ESM) program.
Exam Information and Practice Materials
Learn more about the MAPE and explore practice test questions.
Math Placement Contact Information
Clint Hahlbeck, MAPE Coordinator
Email: chahlbec@calpoly.edu
Office Phone: (805) 756-2268
Fax: (805) 756-6537
Location: 25-208
