Step 1
Activate your OSU Internet Username
Your OSU Internet Username must be activated at least 24 hours before you plan to use it. Activation is necessary to: reserve an orientation date, complete the Mathematics Skills Assessment, check financial aid status, use your Ohio State e-mail account, etc.
Go to http://admissions.osu.edu/activate/ and follow the instructions. If you experience problems related to activating your username, contact the Office of Information Technology (OIT) Support Center by e-mail at 8help@osu.edu, by phone at (614) 688-HELP, or by TDD at (614) 688-8743.
It is important that you remember to write down your OSU Internet Username (lastname.#) and password and bring it with you to orientation. Your username and password is issued to you only, so it is important that you safeguard the password and not share it with anyone.
Before the assessment begins, you will be asked to specify the math courses you completed in high school and the grade you received for each. You should check your high school math courses and grades before taking the assessment, so that you are able to provide accurate information.
Step 2
Establish a web connection to https://buckeyelink3.osu.edu/secure/math.
- Netscape version 4.06 or higher or Internet Explorer 4.0 or higher is required.
- You may use either an IBM-compatible PC or Mac.
- Many students experience difficulty using AOL. We recommend that you switch to a different browser and do not use AOL for the assessment.
Login using your OSU Internet Username (lastname.#) and password from Step 1. You will need to provide your OSU ID #, which is on your confirmation letter.
Thoroughly read the Mathematics Skills Assessment instructions, specifically noting the following:
- You may use scratch paper, pencil, and a scientific or graphing calculator (you should not use a calculator with computer symbolic algebra or QWERTY keyboard).
- The test is timed for 75 minutes and the time remaining will be updated after you answer each question.
- The test is entirely multiple-choice with only one correct answer. Partial credit is not given.
Note: if you experience computer or web browser problems during the test, return to the site and you should be able to begin where you left off. If you are unable to resume the test, or if time elapsed while you were attempting to restart the test, or if you encounter any other problems with the test, please call the Testing Office in Columbus at 614-292-2241 during regular business hours.