The first step is to make sure you know what the introductory math requirements are for your intended major. Not all majors or minors require math coursework. Math Placement is required if you are considering any of the following majors:

• All majors in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM)
• Economics, Business Management Economics, or Global Economics
• Cognitive Science
• Environmental Studies
• Psychology

Check Math Requirements by Major

So, I need Math. What now?

If you’ve successfully completed a transferable college-level pre-calculus or calculus course, or have a sufficiently high Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) Calculus test score, you can satisfy your Math Placement requirement simply by submitting your grade or score to UCSC. See the General Catalog for AP and IBH score equivalencies.

Check My AP or IB Scores/Transfer Credit

If you do not have a transferable college-level pre-calculus or calculus course, or a sufficiently high Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) Calculus test score, you will need to complete the Math Placement process using ALEKS PPL.

Start your Math Placement

Once you have submitted your transfer credits or your qualifying AP scores, or completed your ALEKS assessment you can get a head start on your math requirements by taking math courses in the summer.

Get a Head Start on Math