Assessment Services

CSM Assessment Services conducts the college assessment program which includes English, Reading, ESL, and Mathematics assessment components. Assessment Services no longer utilizes placement tests for English and Math placement due to the Passage of Assembly Bill (AB) 705. AB 705 allows students to be placed into transfer-level English and math courses using multiple measurements, which include external exams, high school GPA and coursework, guided self-placement. The goal of AB 705 is to maximize the probability that a student will enter and complete transfer-level coursework in English and math within the first year at CSM.

Students are advised to discuss course placement results with a counselor so that they can assist with the development of a student educational plan (SEP). There are a variety of other assessments such as AP, SAT, ACT that can be used as well. For more information, visit Assessment Services.

For English as a Second Language (ESL) there is computerized testing. To take a computerized assessment test, schedule an assessment appointment or call (650) 574-6175.

Complete a Prerequisite Equivalency Form

If you have already successfully completed English and/or math courses at another college or university within the United States and are planning to enroll in an English or math course or a course that has an English or math prerequisite, then your previous coursework must be approved. Visit the Prerequisites webpage for more information and to obtain the Prerequisite Equivalency Form.