You'll take two placement exams as a part of New Student Orientation—or more, if you choose. Your scores will help your academic advisor recommend appropriate courses for your first semester and develop a plan for future coursework.
Learn about required and optional exams
Required Exams
All incoming freshmen and most transfer students are required to take the Math Placement Exam and a Foreign Language Placement Exam (FLPE). Please be sure to click into each placement exam below for more information, including exemptions.
We urge you to complete placement exams at least 72 hours prior to your orientation program to ensure your academic advisor has your scores. Your academic advisor will interpret your scores and determine your placement levels and course options. Neglecting to take these exams online prior to orientation may disrupt your advising appointment and course registration.
Transfer students who will receive credit for certain levels of classes may be exempt from one or both of the required exams. You will want to check your Transfer Credit Report prior to orientation to determine what IU Bloomington credits you have earned with your previous coursework. You can find more information about IU's Credit Transfer Service on the IU Office of Admissions website.
The Chemistry Placement Exam is required for students in science majors who will be taking Chemistry courses as well as students in certain health professions programs. This is an online exam, available now, and must be taken before you can enroll in certain introductory chemistry courses.
Optional Exams
Certain departments offer placement exams to determine advanced placement or credit at IU Bloomington.
Optional exams are offered through Examity, an online proctoring service. Specific information about these exams will be included on your orientation confirmation page.
IU also awards credit for a variety of College Board Advanced Placement (AP) exams. To be considered for credit, have a copy of your score report sent to the IU Office of Admissions.
Some international students may benefit by taking the Indiana Academic English Test (IAET). At orientation, your academic advisor will discuss this with you, and, if beneficial, will share how to sign up for this online exam.
Need Testing Accommodations?
If you have a diagnosed disability that affects your performance on timed tests, and you receive testing modifications at your current school or have received extended time on your SAT or ACT exam, you may request testing modifications for placement exams taken as part of New Student Orientation.
You will have the opportunity to indicate that you require testing modifications or similar support during the academic year from Accessible Educational Services (AES). We will connect you with AES to file the proper documentation.