EPT & ELM FAQs

Most new, first-time freshman students must take placement exams in mathematics and English before enrolling in classes. These CSU system-wide tests—the English Placement Test (EPT) and the Entry Level Mathematics Test (ELM)—are designed to identify entering students who may need additional support to improve English and math skills for success in college-level courses.

Who must take these tests?

The CSU requires you to take the English Placement Test (EPT) and the Entry Level Mathematics Test (ELM) prior to enrollment in the CSU unless you are exempt by means of scores earned on other appropriate tests such as the CSU's Early Assessment Program tests in English and Mathematics, the SAT, and ACT. The EPT and the ELM are not admission tests; instead, they determine eligibility to enroll in specific courses. If you are required to take the EPT and the ELM but fail to do so, you will not be allowed to register for courses at the CSUN. Depending on how you perform on the tests, you may be placed in an appropriate remedial or developmental course during your first term of enrollment.

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When should these tests be taken?

The tests should be taken on the first available test date after admission to the CSU. If you cannot attend the exam at that time, please attempt to take the test at the next scheduled test date. You cannot register for classes until scores have been received by the CSU campus and holds are released. It is therefore, extremely important to take these tests as soon as possible. Take them sooner than later to get these special benefits:

  • Schedule your classes early.
  • Better your chances of getting the schedule that you want.
  • Get them out of the way now so that you will have fewer worries as you finish high school.

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How do I prepare for these tests?

For ELM: An algebra review text, learning assistance center, or a copy of the ELM Problem Book may be of use in helping you prepare. The ELM Problem Book is available for purchase in any CSU campus bookstore or at http://www.calstate.edu/ar/ELMProblemBook01_02.pdf. You should also look at Focus on Mathematics. (NOTE: You will need Acrobat Reader to view these documents. It is available as a free download.)

For EPT: The EPT Test does not ask for any information other than reading and writing skills. You develop these skills with steady practice over a number of years. However more detailed information about the EPT Test specifications can be found in the CSU publication Focus on English available in a high school counselor's guidance office and the English Departments located on all CSU Campuses. It can also be found at http://www.calstate.edu/ar/EPT.PDF. (NOTE: You will need Acrobat Reader to view this document. It is available as a free download.)

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How much time do I have to complete the EPT and/or ELM test?

You have 45 minutes to complete the essay portion and 60 minutes to complete the combined multiple-choice portion (30 minutes for each of the two sections). If you are taking the ELM test at the same sitting, be prepared to test an additional 90 minutes for the ELM. Overall, plan for about 4 hours if taking both tests.

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Suppose I don't do well on the tests?

CSU requires that all students who don't score high enough on the ELM and/or EPT be placed in developmental courses during the first term of enrollment. The tests are designed to help your college give you help if you need it. A low score means that you probably need extra help in order to do well in general education courses.

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How long before I know the results of these tests?

An official score report will be mailed approximately 4-6 weeks after the day of the test to the address you provided on the test answer sheet.

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When will these tests be given?

The EPT/ELM tests are offered year-round at various CSU campuses and at ALL CSU campuses in March, May and June. The specific test dates and registration deadlines for each campus are listed along with the addresses and phone numbers of the individual Testing Offices. For a complete listing, check the CSU EPT/ELM Information bulletin. Pay close attention to the registration deadline listed by each test date since your registration must reach the testing office by the registration deadline.

Students may take the test at the most convenient CSU campus. Online registration is available at most campuses. If you wish to take the EPT at CSUN, online registration is available. It is highly recommended that you test by one the test dates listed below.

CSUN EPT/ELM TESTING CALENDAR For 2008-2009

Test Date Registration Deadline (at 5 pm)
February 14, 2009 January 30, 2009
February 28, 2009 February 13, 2009
March 14, 2009 February 27, 2009
April 18, 2009 April 3, 2009
May 2, 2009 April 17, 2009
June 13, 2009 May 29, 2009

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How do I register for the tests?

All you have to do is visit the Testing Center online, to register online. It's that easy!

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I lost my "Admissions Ticket". How do I get a new one?

Log into the Testing Center registration website, using your User ID and password. On the left navigation under Test Management, select the "View My Tests" link. Under the Actions column, click the "View Admissions Ticket" link and reprint ticket.

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How do I update my registration information?

If you need to make changes, log into the Testing Center registration website, using your User ID and password. On the left navigation under User Management, click on "Edit My Profile" link to update your personal and contact information.

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How can I cancel my registration?

Log into the Testing Center registration website with User ID and password. On the left navigation under Test Management, select the "View My Tests" link. Under the Actions column, click the "Cancel" link for the test you would like to cancel. If you need to cancel your registration after the registration deadline, you will need to contact the Testing Center at 818.677.2369 or testing.center@csun.edu.

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What are the fees for these tests?


ELM and EPT Test Fees
Test Type Cost
ELM $18.00
EPT $18.00
Out of State $50.00
EPT & ELM, combined $36.00

After scores have been released, a duplicate score report is available for a $10 fee only from ETS.

Fees must be paid by check or money order, payable to "ETS" for test fees. Your name must appear on the face of the check, written or printed. You will not be admitted to the EPT and/or ELM examinations without the appropriate test fee. Cash will not be accepted! All fees are non-refundable and subject to change.

Note: By paying with a check, be aware that you are authorizing ETS at its discretion to use the information on your check to make a one-time electronic debit from your account for the amount of your check; no additional amount will be added. If you do not have sufficient funds in your account, an additional service fee of $20.00 will be debited electronically from your account.

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What if something happens at the last minute and I can't attend the test?

Don't worry! There are other test dates. Double check the Testing Center website, http://www.csun.edu/testing/reg/, to re-register for another test date.

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What if I don't live close to the CSUN campus?

  • No problem. You may register to take the tests at whichever CSU campus you choose. You need not take the tests at the campus you plan to attend.
  • Go to www.ets.org/csu and register for the site of your choice.
  • Keep in mind that it is to your advantage to take the test as soon as possible.

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What if I live outside of California or the USA?

Email csuout-of-state@ets.org or call (925) 808-2142 to register at a site near you. Be aware that there is an Out of State Testing Fee of $50 in addition to the Testing fees.

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Can I take these tests at a community college?

No, the EPT and ELM tests are given at all 23 CSU campuses on specific test dates (www.ets.org/csu). You may register to take the tests at whichever CSU campus you choose. You need not take the tests at the campus you plan to attend.

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Due to religious convictions, I am unable to take Saturday tests, what can I do?

If your religious convictions prevent you from taking these tests on the scheduled test dates, you must request special arrangements by contacting the Testing Center.

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What if I have a disability and require special arrangements for taking the tests?

  • Please contact the Center on Disabilities at (818) 677-2684.
  • Request for testing accommodations must be made no later than 5 working days in advance of the test date. Late requests may not be able to be fulfilled.

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Where should I report on test day?

Report to Sagebrush Hall (on Plummer Street) for room assignment. Saturday parking permits are required and cost $4.00. We recommend parking in lots E6 or B6. For University maps, parking information, and directions, please refer to the CSUN website. This information is also printed on your Admissions Ticket.

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What should I bring on test day?

On the day of the test you must bring

  • Social Security number
  • Picture ID
  • Check or money order payable to "ETS"
  • #2 Pencils and a ball point pen
  • A calculator is not allowed.

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I think I am exempt from taking the tests. How do I know if I am exempt? You would be exempt if one of the following is true for you:

  • For the ELM:
    • Your Early Assessment Program (EAP) Test report states you are "College Ready".
    • A score of 550 or above on the mathematics section of the SAT I Reasoning Test or on the SAT II Mathematics Test Level IC or IIC.
    • A score of 23 or above on the ACT Mathematics Test.
    • A score of 3 or above on the AP Calculus AB or Calculus BC or Statistics Examination.
    • Completion and transfer of a course that satisfies the General Education-Breadth or Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) quantitative reasoning requirement provided such course was completed with a grade of C or better.
  • For the EPT:
    • Your Early Assessment Program (EAP) Test report states you are "College Ready".
    • A score of 550 or above on the Verbal section of the SAT I Reasoning Test taken April 1995 or later.
    • A score of 550 or above on the Verbal section of the SAT I Reasoning Test taken April 1995 or later.
    • A score of 680 or above on the re-centered and adjusted SAT II: Writing Test taken May 1998 or after.
    • A score of 3, 4, or 5 on either the Language and Composition or the Composition and Literature examination of the AP program.
    • Completion and transfer of a course that satisfies the General Education-Breadth or Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) written communication requirement, provided such course was completed with a grade of C or better.

If you have not taken the SAT Reasoning Test or ACT or plan to retake the tests, we strongly recommend you take the EPT/ELM as soon as possible in order to have early access to registering for classes.

If your Early Assessment Program (EAP) test report states your Mathematics Status as "Conditionally Exempt", CSUN recommends that you TAKE the ELM now to avoid delaying advisement and registration. Results from your approved math experience in high school will not be available in time to allow you the opportunity to get advisement and register early for classes. Sign up for the ELM now!!!

If you have one of the above mentioned exemptions, mail or bring proof of your exemption to the Office of Admissions and Records, Bayramian Hall (BH) 100, 18111 Nordhoff Street, Northridge CA 91330-8207. Keep a copy of the exemption notice for your records.

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How do I know if Admissions & Records received my test scores exempting me from the EPT and/or ELM?

Contact the Office of Admissions and Records, Bayramian Hall (BH) 100 or call (818) 677-3700 or e-mail them at admissions.records@csun.edu.

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Who do I contact for duplicate scores of the SAT, ACT or EAP to prove my exemption status?

  • SAT scores – Visit http://www.collegeboard.com for information on duplicate SAT scores and associated fees.
  • ACT scores – Visit http://www.act.org for information on duplicate ACT scores and associated fees.
  • EAP scores – Contact your high school.
  • ELM and/or EPT scores – Test scores are maintained permanently by ETS. Duplicate score reports can be ordered by sending a check in the amount of $10 times the number of duplicate score reports you desire, payable to Educational Testing Service, accompanied by a letter indicating your name, social security number, and the date on which you took the test. Cash will not be accepted. Sign the check and send it and the letter to:

Educational Testing Service
EPT/ELM Program
2731 Systron Drive
Concord, CA 94518

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I am still unsure whether I am required to take the EPT and/or ELM. What should I do?

The staff of the Admissions and Records Office of the CSU campus that you plan to attend will be able to answer your questions. Contact CSUN's Office of Admissions and Records, Bayramian Hall (BH) 100 or call (818) 677-3700 or e-mail them at admissions.records@csun.edu.

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I received information saying to take one of the tests and not both. Do I need to take both?

Admissions and Records has information on file exempting you from one of the tests. However, the information on record indicates you are still required to take the other test.

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I am required to take both the ELM and EPT. Is it beneficial to take both on the same day or can I take them on different test dates?

We recommend that you take the tests at the same time to ensure that both scores are reported to the Admissions and Records Office in a timely manner. Taking the tests at different times can delay the reporting of your test scores. Remember, the sooner you take the tests, the sooner you can meet with your advisor and begin scheduling your classes for the semester.

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What if I am not sure I am going to CSUN or a CSU?

  • You need to take the tests to enroll at any CSU campus. So we recommend taking the tests early.
  • The worst case scenario is you take the test and didn't need to.
  • The best case scenario is you take the test early and take advantage of special benefits of testing early.

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I am accepted to more than one CSU. If I took the EPT and/or ELM at one test center would I be required to take the exams again at another CSU?

No. You have the opportunity to have your scores sent to up to four (4) different CSU campuses. Be sure you select to have your scores sent to the campuses that have admitted you.

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I have not yet been admitted. Can I still take the test?

You should wait for the first scheduled test administration after you have been admitted unless the campus asks you to take the test earlier. However, you should take the test at your earliest opportunity after admission. You must take the test before you can enroll in CSU General Education courses.

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Am I obligated to attend CSUN if I take the EPT and/or ELM?

No. Taking the EPT and the ELM tests are not an obligation to attend CSUN. The tests determine your eligibility to enroll in specific courses if you do decide to attend CSUN. If you decide later to attend CSUN and have not tested or qualify for an exemption, you will NOT be allowed to begin classes and will have to reapply for admission for a future term.

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What if I still have questions or need other information?

Visit the ETS website for additional questions for the EPT and ELM tests. Still have questions, call (818) 677-2369 between 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday or e-mail us at testing.center@csun.edu We'll look forward to seeing you on campus!

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Hours of Operation

Monday - Friday
8am - 5pm
(except State and CSU holidays)

Locations

Bayramian Hall, Rm 190
View Campus Map

Contact Information

(818) 677-2369
Testing.center@csun.edu

Questions/Comments

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