Register for a CSUN Test

Hours of Operation

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

Locations

Bayramian Hall, Rm 225
View Campus Map

Contact Information

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

Questions/Comments

Have any questions or comments? Please Contact Us.

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 enroll at CSUN. Depending on how you perform on the tests, you may be placed in an appropriate developmental program during your first term of enrollment.

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When should these tests be taken?

Although your English Placement Test (EPT) and Entry Level Mathematics (ELM) test scores are not requested as part of your admissions application to the University, you must satisfy the requirement before enrolling in classes. Unless exempt, you must take the EPT and ELM tests by May 5, 2012 for Fall 2012 enrollment. Because of heavy demand and limited seating, you should sign up for the tests much earlier than the May deadline. Register now

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: You will almost certainly benefit from reviewing for the ELM, especially if you have not taken a math course during the past year. You can find information about the test and practice questions in the CSU publication Focus on Mathematics (PDF). Another CSU publication, the ELM Problem Book (PDF), also offers numerous practice problems for review.

See the CSU Math Success website (www.csumathsuccess.org) for test review questions.

For EPT: To find out more about what's on the test, see FOCUS ON ENGLISH (PDF) provides information about the entry level English requirement of the CSU EPT test. The document explains scores on other tests that will exempt students from EPT and it includes answers to a number of frequently asked questions. The Focus on English pamphlet includes samples of the types of questions appearing on the new EPT test, as well as examples of essays and how they were scored.

See the CSU English Success website (www.csuenglishsuccess.org) for test review questions.


(NOTE: You will need Acrobat Reader to view these documents. 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 enroll in the CSU Early Start Program. This program is designed for students who need remedial English and/or math.

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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 provide on the test answer sheet.

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I do not know or forgot my username and password?

If you have forgotten your UserName or Password, visit the ETS website and click on "Forgot UserName?" or "Forgot Password?" You will be prompted to answer your security question. If you need additional assistance, call ETS at (925) 808-2142 or email EPT-ELMrequest@ets.org

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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 February, March, and May.

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 tests at the most convenient CSU campus. Online registration is available for all campuses. Register online at the ETS website.

NOTE: Students/Applicants wanting to register for the English Placement Test (EPT) and/or Entry Level Mathematics (ELM) test will need to visit the ETS website.

Unless exempt, you must take the EPT and/or ELM tests by May 5, 2012 for Fall 2012 enrollment at CSUN. Because of heavy demand and limited seating, you should sign up for the tests much earlier than the May deadline.

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How do I register for the tests?

All you have to do is visit the ETS website, to register and pay online. It's that easy!

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

Log into the ETS website using your UserName and password to reprint your admission ticket.

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How can I cancel my registration?

Log into the ETS website using your UserName and password to cancel your test registration prior to the registration deadline. If you need to cancel your registration after the registration deadline, call ETS at (925) 808-2142 or email EPT-ELMrequest@ets.org.

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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.

Test fees must be paid at the time of registration. You will not be registered to take the EPT and/or ELM examinations without appropriate payment of test fees. Students who are unable to pay online via credit card, Paypal or echeck, must contact ETS at 925-808-2142 for an alternate payment method.

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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. Contact ETS at (925) 808-2142, email EPT-ELMrequest@ets.org, or visit the ETS website 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?

You must register online at the ETS website and Select the Test Campus as "Out of State". Please note 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 Disability Resources and Educational Services 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?

Directions to park at Cal State Northridge for EPT & ELM testing

From the 405 Freeway: Exit at Nordhoff Street. Turn west and drive approximately 4 miles. Turn right at Darby Avenue, two blocks past the main Cal State Northridge entrance at Lindley Avenue. At Vincennes Street, you will see the four-level B5 parking structure. Enter the structure from Darby Avenue. Be sure to park in a spot marked "student." You may use a credit card or bills to purchase a $6, daily parking permit at the dispenser located near the elevators and stairwell. Put the permit on your dashboard.

You also may park outside in lot B6, located just north of B5 at Plummer Street and Etiwanda/West University Drive. You may use a credit card or bills to purchase a $6, daily parking permit at the dispenser on the south side of the lot. Put the permit on your dashboard.

From the 118 Freeway: Exit at Reseda Boulevard and drive south approximately 3 miles to Plummer Street. Turn left on Plummer. On your right will be parking lot B6. You may use a credit card or bills to purchase a $6, daily parking permit at the dispenser located on the south side of the lot. You also may park in the four-level B5 parking structure, located just south of B6. Enter B5 from Darby Avenue. Be sure to park in a spot marked "student." You may use a credit card or bills to purchase a $6, daily parking permit at the dispenser located near the elevators and stairwell. Put the permit on your dashboard.

Directions for dropping off a student at Cal State Northridge for EPT & ELM testing

From the 405 Freeway: Exit at Nordhoff Street. Turn west and drive approximately 4 miles. Turn right at Darby Avenue, which is two blocks past the main Cal State Northridge entrance at Lindley Avenue. Turn right at Vincennes Street, which ends at Etiwanda Avenue/West University Drive. Pull over here to let out your passenger.

From the 118 Freeway: Exit at Reseda Boulevard and drive south approximately 3 miles to Plummer Street. Turn left on Plummer, then right on Etiwanda Avenue/West University Drive. Drive one block and pull over at Vincennes Street to let out your passenger.

Click here for map

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What should I bring on test day?

On the day of the test you must bring

  • Social Security number (Do NOT bring your card)
  • Photo Identification (Driver's license, high school ID, passport, etc)
  • Several #2 Pencils
  • A calculator is not allowed.
  • Your printed admission ticket.

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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 22 or above on the enhanced ACT English Test taken October 1989 or later.
    • A score of 500 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.

Exemptions listed above are effective for matriculated first time freshman entering Summer/Fall 2011.

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. All first-time freshmen are required to submit SAT or ACT scores no later than January 13, 2012 to be considered for Fall 2012 admission. The last opportunity to take the tests is in December 2011, so register as early as possible.

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.org 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 take the first scheduled test administration after you have applied to any CSU campus. You must take the test before you can enroll in CSU General Education courses. Unless exempt, you must take the EPT and ELM tests by May 5, 2012 for Fall 2012 enrollment at CSUN. Because of heavy demand and limited seating, you should sign up for the tests much earlier than the May deadline. Register now!

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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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