Math Hold Information

What is a math hold?

Like all other holds, a math hold prevents you from registering for classes in the future. Andrews University requires that students take the SAT or ACT test and have an MPE equivalent score assigned to them OR to take Math Placement Exam during their first semester on campus . If you do not do so, we will notify you with test dates, and if you fail to take the MPE, we will place a math hold on your record so that you cannot register for the next semester.

What is the purpose of the math hold?

The purpose of the math hold is to encourage you to take the Math Placement Exam so that you will know just which math courses you need to take and can plan your college curriculum and graduate on time. Some students take up to three semesters or more to complete their math requirements, so knowing exactly what your math requirements are can help you to plan ahead.

If I have a math hold and the classes I need to take are filling up, will someone release the math hold temporarily so that I can register and get the classes I need?  

No. Releasing the hold so you can register defeats the purpose of the hold. You can avoid this problem by taking the exam well in advance of registration.

How can I avoid getting a hold? 

Have your SAT or ACT scores sent to Andrews.

Take the Math Placement Exam.

Make sure math credit you earned at other colleges or universities has been transferred to Andrews and recorded on your transcript. [Remember that the math courses must be at the level of College Algebra or above. (Intermediate Algebra is below the level of College Algebra.)]

I think a mistake has been made in my records. Who can help me? 

Please contact your academic advisor, the Records Office (269-471-3375), or the Math Department (269-471-3423), math@andrews.edu.

I plan to take a math course in the summer at a community college. Do I have to take the Math Placement Exam? 

Yes.  And you must get the dean's office to approve the course for transfer into Andrews.

When will the Math Placement Exam be given? 

See the current semester schedule of exam times. Be sure to prepare carefully using your learning module before you schedule a proctored exam.

Where can I find sample questions, review resources, and other information about the exam? 

Sample questions and two practice exams are included in the ALEKS PPL system. These offer a great source of review, and students should plan to spend some time reviewing the material in the system.  Other information is available at the Department of Mathematics (269-471-3423 or math@andrews), and a clear explanation of the new MPE is available on this Web site.