At New Mexico State University Alamogordo, we want you to be successful in your math courses. One way to ensure this happens is to place you in the correct level: if you go into a level that’s too easy for you, you’ll get bored. If you go into a level that’s too hard, you’ll get lost.

If you are a recent high school graduate and you took your Math ACT or SAT, we can use those scores to place you. If you don’t have ACT/SAT scores or they’re older than one year, you can take the Math Placement Exam (MPE) to determine the best level for you.

The majority of degrees offered at NMSU-A require at least MATH 1220G, College Algebra. That’s a class you need to pass in order to graduate. The MPE can determine if you’re ready for MATH 1220G, or if you could use the additional support of CCDM 103N Pre-Algebra, CCDM 105N Math Prep and Pre-Algebra, CCDM 114N Algebra Skills, or MATH 1215 Intermediate Algebra.

You will be given your results immediately after completing the assessment. Take your results to your academic advisor so that you can register for the right course.

The problems on this practice exam will help you review your mathematical skills and give you an idea of what is on the test.  Solutions are also provided on the practice exam. The actual test is multiple-choice and has 40 problems broken down as follows:

Part I (1-10) Algebra I
Part II (11–20) Algebra II
Part III (21-30) Precalculus Algebra
Part IV (31-40) Trigonometry

For the MPE, you can bring blank paper, pencil, and a calculator. If you don’t bring them, they can be provided for you.

The NMSU-A Testing Center will administer the exam by appointment.  

Testing Center Hours

Monday - Thursday: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

Friday: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm

Saturday: 9:00 am - 2:00 pm

Additional Help

Students with questions about their particular needs may consult Greg Hillis, Division Head of Career and Technology. Email Greg Hillis or call 575.439.3768