Placement Tests
Language Placement Tests: The distinct language departments at Bates have different approaches to language placement given a student’s previous experience with the language. For more information regarding language instruction and at what level a student might begin their language study at Bates, please click on the relevant links listed below:
- Chinese: https://www.bates.edu/asian/chinese-placement/
- French: https://www.bates.edu/french-francophone-studies/academics/placement-form/
- German: https://www.bates.edu/german-russian/academics/german/language-placement/
- Japanese: https://www.bates.edu/asian/academics/japanese/japanese-placement/
- Russian: https://www.bates.edu/german-russian/russian-language-placement/
- Spanish: https://www.bates.edu/hispanic-studies/placement-exam/
Math Placement Tests: The first math course a student takes depends on their background. In most cases, it will be MATH 105 (Calculus I), 106 (Calculus II), 205 (Linear Algebra), or 206 (Multivariable Calculus). If a student has AP, IB, or A-level credit for just MATH 105 (Calculus I), sign up for MATH 106 (Calculus II) or beyond. If a student also has AP, IB, or A-level credit for MATH 106 (Calculus II), sign up for MATH 205 (Linear Algebra) or MATH 206 (Multivariable Calculus). Even if a student does not have official credit, if they have a strong background in Calculus, we urge them to sign up for the next level after what they have completed. Successful completion of MATH 106 (Calculus II) fulfills any Bates requirements for MATH 105 (Calculus I). Successful completion of MATH 206 fulfills any Bates requirements for both MATH 105 (Calculus I) and MATH 106 (Calculus II). This includes the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree. Please take the non-binding, anonymous math placement exam to further assess which course best suits you. If you have further questions and would like to contact someone, please consult Mathematics Department Contacts.
Chemistry Placement: First-year students who want to take chemistry in their first semester should register for Chem 107 (any section.) Those students with AP/IB/A-level credit in Chemistry that might be equivalent to Chem 107 or Chem 108 should consult Selecting Your First Chemistry Course.