EPT & ELM Frequently Asked Questions

 

1.    How do I sign up for tests?

You can register for and find resources to help you prepare for the ELM exam and the EPT at the following link:

EPT & ELM Exams

 

2.    When do I have to take the tests?

The ELM exam and the EPT must be taken at least six weeks prior to your orientation date.

 

3.    Can I take re-take the tests?

You can retake the ELM exam as many times as you would like.  However, you can only take the exam once within a testing period.  By retaking the ELM exam, you can either test into a higher level ELM course or you can clear your ELM requirement altogether by passing the exam with a score of 50 or higher.  You can only take the EPT once.  If you do not pass the EPT the first time, you must take and pass GEW 101 with a grade of “C” or better to clear your EPT requirement.

 

4.    What do my scores mean?

EPT scores break down as follows:

·         151 or higher – Pass (exempt of EPT requirement)

·         150 or lower – GEW 101

ELM scores break down as follows:

·         50 or higher – Pass (ready for college-level math classes)

·         40-48 – CSUSM Math 051 (can only be taken at CSUSM) (Fall)

·         30-38 – Palomar Math 50 (Fall); CSUSM Math 051 (Spring)

·         0-28 – Palomar Math 15 & Palomar Math 50 (Fall); CSUSM Math 051 (Summer)

***NOTE: Required EPT and ELM courses must be taken and passed (grade of “C” or better) within the first year of enrollment at CSUSM.  Students who do not pass these courses within their first year of enrollment will be dis-enrolled from the university.

 

5.    How do I order ACT/SAT/EAP/AP scores?

Ordering ACT scores (CSUSM code = 0272)

Ordering SAT scores (CSUSM code = 5677)

Ordering AP scores (CSUSM code = 5677)

Obtaining EAP scores

 

6.    I don’t know if CSUSM received my scores, how do I find out?

You may check your Student Service Center in MyCSUSM to see if your EPT (English Placement Test) and/or your ELM (Entry Level Mathematics) scores have been received.  After you log into MyCSUSM, go to the Student Service Center.  Click on the blue hyperlink for “Transcript/Test Scores” to view any test scores that have been received by the University.

 

7.    What do I do if CSUSM does not have my scores?

Official scores are automatically sent from ETS to CSUSM approximately 6 weeks after taking the tests. However, on occasion there may be a misspelling of a name or a problem with other student identifiers and scores may not be loaded in your record.  If after checking your Student Service Center (see FAQ #6), you do not see the EPT and/or ELM scores you may bring a copy of your scores to Cougar Central on the third floor of Craven Hall.  Please plan to also bring a copy of the scores with you to your Orientation session.

 

8.    Can I register for an Orientation before taking the tests?

Students can register for an Orientation session prior to taking the EPT/ELM. However, when reserving an Orientation session, choose a date that will allow enough time for you to receive your EPT/ELM scores. Scores are available approximately 6 (six) weeks after the test date.

 

9.    Do I need to take the tests before coming to Orientation?  

Yes. There are multiple opportunities and locations to take the EPT/ELM prior to your reserved Orientation session. You can view test date and location information at the following link:

EPT & ELM Requirements

 

10.  Why is it so important for me to have my test scores at Orientation?

These scores determine what Math & English courses you will be placed into. Students will be registering for Fall 2009 courses at Orientation and the course registration process for new students can be confusing enough! Having your EPT/ELM scores at Orientation will ensure a more helpful and smooth academic advising and course registration process. Having your test scores will allow Academic Advisors and Orientation Team leaders to enroll you in the correct courses. Without these scores, you will NOT be permitted to register for a Math and/or English course.