What is CHM Placement Exam?

The Chemistry Placement Exam is a computer-based multiple-choice exam to assess readiness for placement into the following courses:  

  • CHM2045 General Chemistry and Qualitative Analysis I 
  • CHM 2045L General Chemistry and Qualitative Analysis I Laboratory 

Students who pass the exam do not need to complete CHM 1025 and CHM 1025L to enroll in CHM2045 and CHM2045L. In addition, MAT 1033 (completed with a grade of C or higher) or an appropriate mathematics placement test score is required for enrollment into CHM2045 and CHM2045L. 

Accommodations 

Available accommodations upon request include a distraction-free room, extended time, and accessible seating. All students may use the built-in Accessibility Wizard to adjust the high-contrast color scheme, background color, text color, text size, text font, line spacing, and cursor.  

To request an accommodation, students must: 

  • Request Accessibility Accommodations through the Student Accessibility Services Accommodations Form. 
  • Contact Testing Services once an exam is registered to verify available accommodations. 
  • Provide your accommodation approval letter from Student Accessibility Services at check-in on exam day. 

Availability 

The Chemistry Placement Exam is offered by appointment on all campuses during regular operational hours. 

Fee 

There is no fee for students with an application on file.  

Identification

Valid, photo identification must be presented at check-in on exam day to test. A PHSC ID card may be used for identification. Students without photo identification must contact Testing Services about identity verification options.   

Prior Test Scores

Test scores are valid for two years from the test date. 

Registration

Students must schedule an exam appointment through Testing Services.  

Retake Policy

Students are only allowed one attempt in a two-year period. Test scores are valid for two years. 

Scores

The score range is between 0 and 100. A passing score of 70 is required for placement into CHM2045 and CHM2045L. 

Study Resources

Students may refer to the PHSC Master Course outline for CHM1025 and CHM1025L. 

Subject Areas

The Chemistry Placement Exam covers all basic equations used for topics covered in CHM1025. 

Basic Question Topic Areas: 

  • Properties of matter 
  • Atomic structure 
  • Atoms/elements/compounds 
  • Molecular structure 
  • Reactions 
  • Stoichiometry 
  • Gases 
  • Misc. 

Test Materials 

Students will be provided with the following materials during the test: 

  • Scientific calculator (handheld) 
  • Electronic tablet for scratch paper 
  • A laminated handout: Periodic Table from ACS USNCO 

Time Limit

75 minutes