The Chemistry Readiness Assessment for Spring 2024 will be available later this year.
Chemistry Assessment
To help students prepare for college-level chemistry courses at UT Austin, the College of Natural Sciences (CNS) and the Department of Chemistry have prepared a Chemistry Readiness Program. The program consists of an online assessment for students to take as they review topics in preparation for CH 301 (Principles of Chemistry I) or CH 301N. The chemistry assessment covers a variety of high-school-level chemistry topics, each of which is considered prior knowledge by chemistry instructors. Once the CH 301/CH 301N classes start, the instructors will build off the materials students worked on as part of the assessment.
Who must take the UT Chemistry Assessment?
Many students wishing to enroll in CH 301 must complete the Chemistry assessment.
If you are a new, incoming student in a college outside of the College of Natural Sciences and unsure whether you will take CH 301, do not purchase the Chemistry assessment until after attending summer orientation. No refunds will be issued.
CNS Students in the following majors are asked to complete the Chemistry assessment before attending orientation:
- Biochemistry, Biology, Chemistry
- Environmental Science, Human Development & Family Sciences, Human Ecology
- Medical Laboratory Science, Neuroscience, Nutrition, Physics, Public Health
You will have an opportunity to meet with your Academic Advisor and determine your course schedule.
Why must I take the UT Chemistry Assessment?
The Chemistry Assessment is a more effective assessment tool than the SAT, AP or CLEP tests.
In addition, the Chemistry Assessment allows students to enter CH 301 or CH 301N 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 Chemistry Assessment?
The assessment covers a variety of high-school-level chemistry topics, each of which is considered prior knowledge by our instructors.
How do I get technical support for the Chemistry Assessment?
Some issues can be resolved by the College of Natural Sciences support team. If you're having access issues please email: readiness@cns.utexas.edu
Please include your UT EID and a copy of your Chemistry Package email purchase receipt.
What if I already have credit for chemistry through AP, Credit by exam, IB or CLEP exams?
The assessment may still be required. All incoming students who enroll or wish to enroll in CH 301 must take the Chemistry Readiness Assessment. Please discuss with your academic advisor if you plan on enrolling in any of the other chemistry courses in sequence (CH 302 or CH 320M) as your first class in-residence at UT Austin.
Is the Chemistry Assessment a timed test?
The Chemistry Assessment gives you the time you need to complete the assessment (20 questions). The assessment must be completed in one sitting. You should allow approximately 1 hour for the initial assessment.
How does the Chemistry Assessment work?
The Chemistry Assessment has two components: the Assessment and the Learning Modules.
- Upon first signing in, you engage in the Assessment. This is the initial exam that determines how much you already know and remember about chemistry.
- The Learning Modules are activated after you complete the initial assessment. These include practice problems and tutorials. When you select a topic to study, you will be given a practice problem.
Where does my score appear?
- Your score is automatically added to your UT student profile which is accessible by your advisor
- Your academic advisor will suggest to you which chemistry course to enroll in but please note that there are no required scores to enroll in CH 301. The assessment is only used to gauge the chemistry skills you have before beginning at UT Austin.
- Your score will be verified by the Chemistry department before the semester begins
- Your score can be viewed by reentering the Chemistry Assessment portal using the same access link for which you took the assessment. Click the assessment button and your score will appear
How long is my Chemistry Assessment completion valid?
The completion of the assessment is valid for one long semester. After that, the assessment expires and the Chemistry Assessment must be repurchased and retaken if you wish to take CH 301 in a later semester.