Skip to content

Home / Academics / Programs of Study / Skip Navigation LinksMathematics Department / Proficiency Testing

Math Proficiency Testing

What Is A Proficiency Test?

A proficiency test is an examination that measures knowledge in one of the general education areas required for an LCC Associate's Degree. It allows students to demonstrate proficiency in that area without having to take the course. Proficiency tests are equivalent to the final exam for that course, and passing it fulfills LCC's graduation requirement in that general education area. General information about proficiency tests and the general education areas covered by these tests is available here.

What Do I Need to Know Before Taking a Proficiency Test?

  • Each proficiency test can be taken one time ONLY.
  • Students must obtain permission from the academic department offering the test and pay a fee of $50.
  • Proficiency tests are challenging exams covering all of the material taught in the course. Extensive review of course topics is highly recommended.
  • Proficiency tests are administered in the main campus Testing Services Center. You must already be admitted to LCC and show a pictured ID in order to start the test.
  • The test will be graded by a faculty member familiar with the course. It may take several days for the test to be graded.
  • Results of the test are entered in the student records system. You can see your results in StarPort under the Student tab, in the Placement Test Scores box.
  • A passing score is 71% or higher. A score of 76% is required for entrance to LCC's nursing program.
  • Passing the proficiency test does not give you credit for the course, and the test results are not recorded on your transcript.

What is the Math Proficiency Test Like?

Math 112 - Intermediate Algebra

  • Course topics covered by the test are listed here.
  • The course text can be purchased at Gibson's Book Store or viewed at the Reference Desk on the 2nd floor of the LCC Library: Intermediate Algebra, Second Edition, special edition for LCC by Miller, O'Neill, and Hyde, published by McGraw-Hill. ISBN 978-0-07-742546-3
  • The test has 40 questions.
  • You will be provided with a graphing calculator, a ruler, and scratch paper.
  • There is no time limit, but you must finish by the Testing Service Center's closing time.
  • The code COMA (COre MAth) will appear on your record with the percentage you got correct.
  • Passing the Math 112 proficiency test raises your Math Level to 6.

How Do I Take the Math Proficiency Test

  1. Come to the Mathematics & Computer Science Department Office or call us at (517) 483-1073 to set up an appointment to talk with a department representative. The representative will review information about the test, suggest resources to help you study, and complete a CORE Proficiency Examination Authorization Form.
  2. Take the Authorization Form to the Student Finance office in room 214 of the Gannon Building and pay the $50 fee.
  3. Study for the test using the suggested resources.
  4. After studying for the exam and paying your fee, the next step is to take your test with Testing Services, located in the TLC Building, Room 104. You do not need an appointment to test. Tests must be started at least one hour prior to closing time, but we recommend you allow for at least two hours. Testing center hours are can be found on the Testing Hours and Locations webpage.
  5. Check your results in StarPort under the Student tab, in the Placement Test Scores box.
  6. When you apply for graduation, if you have a passing score, be sure to note on the application that you passed the proficiency test. This will prompt the registrar's office to check the student records system.

Mathematics and Computer Science Department

Mathematics and Computer Science Department
Arts & Sciences Building, Room 3203
Phone: (517) 483-1073
Additional contact information »