Who must take the ALEKS UT Chemistry Assessment?

All students wishing to enroll in CH301 must complete the assessment. A score of at least 85% is required as a course prerequisite.

• Students new to UT, regardless of major.
• Continuing students at UT, regardless of major.

Why must I take the ALEKS UT Chemistry Assessment?

The UT Chemistry Assessment is a more effective assessment tool than the SAT, AP, or CLEP tests.

In addition, the UT Chemistry Assessment allows students to enter CH301 with a strong knowledge base, regardless of how long it’s been since the student’s last chemistry course.

What chemistry topics are on the ALEKS UT Chemistry Assessment?

The assessment covers a variety of high school-level chemistry topics, each of which is considered prior knowledge by our instructors.

What is the Access Procedure?

The assessment is to be completed via Internet connection at a place and time that is convenient for you. To access the assessment, you will need:

• Your UTEID and password.
• A computer with a web browser and internet connection. Supported browsers are:
  • Windows: Internet Explorer 6.0 or higher, Firefox 3 or higher, Chrome 4 or higher
  • Macintosh OS 10.3 or higher: Safari 3 or higher, Firefox 3 or higher

What if I already have credit for chemistry through AP, IB, or CLEP exams?

All incoming students who enroll or wish to enroll in CH301 must take the UT Chemistry Assessment.

Is ALEKS a timed test?

ALEKS gives you the time you need in order to complete the assessment (20-35 questions). However, it does take into account the time it takes for you to answer each question when determining (the ease or difficulty of) your next question and your score. The assesment must be completed in one sitting. You should allow 1.5-2 hours for the initial assessment.

How does ALEKS Chemistry work?

ALEKS Chemistry has two primary “modes”: Assessment Mode and Learning Mode.

• Upon first signing in, you engage Assessment mode. This is the initial exam that determines how much you already know and remember about chemistry. The better you do, the harder it gets (and the higher your end score).
• The Learning Mode is activated after you take the initial assessment. It includes practice problems and tutorials. In learning mode you will see a “pie” with clickable links. When you select a topic to study, you will be given a practice problem. Answering problems correctly raises your ALEKS Chemistry score. Answering a problem incorrectly reveals the answer with a step-by-step solution to the problem and may temporarily lower your score until you get a similar question correct. Working in Learning Mode is another way to earn the 85% required for enrollment in CH301.

What does ALEKS do for me?

Results vary among students, but for the majority of students ALEKS provides a way to ensure your chemistry background is at an appropriate level for the topics that UT Chemistry instructors assume you already know. The freshman chemistry courses at UT are challenging and build from these fundamental topics. ALEKS provides (1) identification on which topics need more review and (2) practice problems that focus on your weaker areas.

What is the deadline?

The ALEKS Chemistry initial assessment should be purchased and completed at least five (5) weeks before the semester begins, to allow ample time to work toward the required score. The minimum required score of 85% must be met by midnight August 26 or else you will be dropped from CH301.

Step 2: Warm Up