Entry Level Mathematics (ELM) Exam

New CSU students not meeting the ELM Requirement by any other means must pass the ELM examination to show that they are math ready for college-level course work. This examination is not an admissions test, but rather an instrument for determining who may enroll in certain general education courses that are required for graduation.

ELM Examination Description

CSU campuses offer the exam during the spring and summer. Students may take the ELM exam at whatever location is convenient, not just at the campus where they plan to attend. Many of the CSU campuses require that students take the exam before registering for classes.

The exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions.
The ELM exam covers three content areas: Numbers and Data, Algebra, and Geometry.
Students have 90 minutes to complete the actual questions, but they should allow at least two hours for the testing process.
Detailed information on ELM exam testing procedures and scoring can be downloaded.

Preparing for the ELM Exam

Students should first ensure that they need to take the ELM exam by reading the ELM requirement page, which lists several ways to meet the requirement.
Students who need to take the ELM should access the online test prep tools to begin preparing for the test.
Students should prepare for the test seriously. The exam is their last chance to meet the ELM requirement.