Start in the Right Math Course
UGA Specific
UGA has two math placement tests (DMAT which is the Department Math Assessment Test) and ALEKS based, both testing the same content but different ways.
The math department decides which test your student will take.
Other Universities and Colleges
Many colleges around the country use similar math placement exams with very similar content. I can definitely help no matter which college. The preparation is similar regardless of the institution.
Why Prepare?
A strong placement score can help students:
- Place into the appropriate math course
- Avoid unnecessary prerequisite classes
- Stay on track for their major requirements
- Begin college with greater confidence
- Potentially save both time and tuition costs
The test is not meant to be difficult, but it does assess skills that students have not used lately. I often hear “I did precalculus in high school, how hard can this be” but they don’t realize how much they have forgotten.
Many students are surprised by how much algebra and trigonometry they have forgotten since high school. A little preparation can make a big difference.
Exempting Precalculus is a great outcome – but only if your student is truly ready. If they need to do more math for their major, better to do precalculus and firm up that foundation. The placement test is meant to find the correct starting point for your student.
How I Help Students Prepare
Your student can take this practice test, either use these worksheets or purchase a workbook, “ALEKS Math for Beginners“
I advise doing each page/topic and if they cannot get past the first 5 problems, then this would be an indication they need extra help.
One-on-one tutoring sessions for the placement test are $125/hour (2026-27 rate).