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Academic Advising

ALEKS PPL Math Placement Test

ALEKS PPL is USC's tool for evaluating a student's math knowledge and readiness for learning. USC uses ALEKS PPL to optimize the placement of students into their first math course. 

What is ALEKS PPL?

ALEKS PPL (Assessment and Learning in Knowledge Spaces: Placement, Preparation and Learning) is an AI‑powered math assessment and learning system that accurately measures a student’s current knowledge, identifies specific strengths and gaps, and delivers personalized learning modules to help students prepare for course placement.

The ALEKS Math Placement Test consists of 25 open-ended questions and typically takes 60–90 minutes to complete. Students will have a total of 2.5 hours for each assessment attempt. Following the placement assessment, students gain access to an individualized Prep and Learning Module designed to help refresh previously learned material and strengthen weaker areas.

Students may take ALEKS up to five times within one year, allowing them to improve their placement by demonstrating increased mastery after completing additional practice and learning.

Learn more about ALEKS PPL by watching the short video below.

Why does USC use ALEKS PPL?

ALEKS helps make sure you start college math in the right place. ALEKS measures what you know right now.

  • Accurate placement – ALEKS PPL identifies your current math skills so you’re placed in a course that matches your readiness.
  • Personalized learning – If there are topics you’ve forgotten or haven’t practiced recently, ALEKS PPL provides targeted review to help you improve.
  • Better chance for success – Starting in the right math course reduces frustration and boosts confidence.
  • Opportunities to improve – After reviewing material, you can reassess and potentially place into a higher‑level course.

USC uses ALEKS to support student success by combining placement, learning, and reassessment into one flexible system.

How does USC use ALEKS scores for Math Placement?

After completing the placement assessment, you’ll review your results with your academic advisor during your pre-orientation advising appointment, who will help you choose the math course that fits your academic goals and placement score.

The ALEKS placement assessment shows what math skills you already know and what you may need to review. When you finish, you'll understand your strengths and areas to improve. ALEKS then gives you personalized practice to help you review topics you haven’t used in a while and strengthen your skills before classes start.

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