Chemistry Placement Test (CPT)
A score of ≥36 on the CPT or a grade ≥ C- in Chem 101 is required to enroll in Chem 150 or Chem 211. Only one attempt to pass the CPT is allowed. Scores will be processed as soon as possible and will appear on BannerWeb as soon as they are entered (usually within one week).
Times/Locations: See the
advising page for department adminstered exams
or contact the Testing Center, Modular West (next to the Children’s Center) at (661) 654-3373, for more information about making alternative arrangements.
Format
60 multiple choice questions – 55 minutes.
There is no penalty for guessing.
Part I: General Mathematics (elementary algebra including exponential notation)– 20 questions
Part II: General Chemical Knowledge – 20 questions
Part III: Specific Chemical Knowledge – 20 questions
Additional Information
If you have not completed a high school chemistry course or have completed such a course more than two years ago, you should enroll directly in Chem 101 to prepare for Chem 150 or Chem 211. Completion of Chem 101 at CSUB with a grade of "C-" or better will automatically qualify you for admission to Chem 150 or Chem 211. You should be aware that approximately one-half of the students who pass the CPT with a score in the low 40's fail to earn a grade of "C" or greater in CHEM 150 and CHEM 211.
If you feel the need to prepare for the CPT, we recommend that you review standard elementary algebra and high school level chemistry texts. These texts are available at most public libraries.