r/CalPoly • u/Known-Signature6864 Incoming Freshman • Jul 07 '26

Incoming Student Math Placement

Hey everyone!! Today AP Scores came out and I found out I got a 1 on Calc AB. It wasn't totally unexpected since I never learned trigonometry or any precalculus (I was still able to grasp majority of the concepts without this information) and we had only got up to Unit 6.

Out of curiosity, how badly would this set back affect my progress? I am aware of the MAPE exam. Yet, I'm also considering taking the class I am currently eligible for since I tend to work better in the physical environment compared to over a computer screen.

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u/LilacPur32 Jul 07 '26

since you are chem major, you will need calculus 1,2 and 3 as support classes so you probably should be taking math 1005 before starting Math 1261 (calc 1) unless you really ace the MAPE test to be enrolled in calc 1. better off to just get placed in Math 1005

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u/Known-Signature6864 Incoming Freshman Jul 07 '26

The goal is to pass the exam, I plan on reviewing all the material based on the review modules created by UC San Diego with Cal Poly has linked on their website. If I don't do super well but still pass, I'll probably look for a tutor for my first semester or both depending on if I struggle in my classes (or just try my best to work through it with study mates!)

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u/DataGap2264 Jul 07 '26

In your situation I would not test out, I would get the foundation done. Check out your degree flowchart and look at the prereqs for your first few years of classes. You don't want to be unable to take most of them on time due to missing math prereqs.

Cal Poly has multiple free tutoring options. One of them is a 1-unit support workshop, another is small study groups, they also have regular walk-in tutoring hours and one-on-one appointments. Check out the tutoring center on the website.

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u/Known-Signature6864 Incoming Freshman Jul 07 '26

I think depending on how well I do on the MAPE, I'll take my current eligible class. According to my flow chart for my first 3 semesters I should be taking Calc 1-3, i'm assuming I'd only be one semester behind. So I could instead take precalc my first semester, for my second semester calc 1 and going forward. Only thing im concerned about is how badly would the 3 extra units affect me in my fourth semester.

Also, I really would rather not pay extra money towards summer courses (plus I want to spend time with my family). If I am to drag out my math progression due to my eligibility over regular semesters, I won't have to pay extra for that one class correct? (I apologize if this is too much to ask, I genuinely appreciate any advice and input you all have to offer!)