Biola Placement Exams & Surveys
Biola University offers placements in the following subject areas: writing, science, foreign language and music. Review each selection below for information about the placement and which ones you are required to complete.
Writing
All incoming students must complete a short survey to indicate how they plan to meet their Biola writing requirement.
- If you are taking ENGL 112 or 100 at Biola: Submit a writing sample or qualifying test scores.
- If you already have credit (Transfer/AP/CLEP): You must still complete the survey to document your credit with the English Writing Program.
- If you are in the Torrey Honors program: Submit the survey to notify the English Writing Program of your participation in Torrey Honors (fulfills the ENGL 100/112 requirement).
Science
Chemistry and Physics placement is required for select majors in the School of Science, Technology and Health. See information below for the majors that require placement.
General Chemistry
The following majors require placement for General Chemistry — CHEM 105 or CHEM 102:
- Allied Health
- Biochemistry
- Biological Science
- Chemistry
- Engineering Physics
- Health Sciences
- Kinesiology: Health and Exercise Science
- Physics
Bio & Organic Chemistry
The following majors require placement for Organic and Bio Chemistry — CHEM 120:
- Allied Health
- Healthcare Management
- Kinesiology: Strength and Conditioning
- Nursing
- Occupational Performance and Delivery
Physics
The following majors require placement for physics:
- Allied Health
- Biochemistry
- Biological Science
- Chemistry
- Engineering
- Engineering Physics
- Health Sciences
- Kinesiology: Health and Exercise Science
- Physics
- Robotics Engineering
Foreign Language
Biola offers courses in the following languages: American Sign Language, French, and Spanish. Students who intend to complete their language requirement with Spanish or French at Biola are required to complete the online placement exam.
Foreign language requirements are determined by degree (find and review the Program Requirements for your degree). Students are strongly encouraged to satisfy their foreign language requirement during their freshman and sophomore years.
Music
Only students pursuing a music major or minor take music placement exams.
Music Majors, Minors, and Musical Theatre Majors need to complete their placement at the Conservatory, or at home with an approved proctor. The test may be taken when the student comes to campus at the start of their semester, though it is highly recommended that their assessments be completed upon acceptance to the Conservatory.