EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND ASSESSMENT TEST
The test consists of 20 multiple-choice questions on topics including comparisons of numerical quantities, symbolic expressions, equations and inequalities, elements of Euclidean and Cartesian geometry, simple probability and combinatorics problems and understanding mathematical texts.
To pass the test, the student must answer at least 10 questions correctly. The result is immediately available at the end of the test.
The student may only take the test once, through the e-learning platform with reserved access using credentials provided by the University at the end of the enrolment procedure. Registration for the test is carried out by logging in to the reserved area https://uninsubria.esse3.cineca.it/Home.do.
Students who do not pass the initial knowledge test are assigned an additional training obligation (OFA), which involves compulsory attendance of a remedial course in Mathematics, at the end of which a further test is scheduled. A student who fails this test will not be able to sit any of the examinations in the years following the first, unless he/she passes the Algebra and Geometry exam scheduled for the first year.
In the case of late enrolment, the CCdS may decide to provide extraordinary test dates and dedicated reception hours to support students who are assigned OFA.
Regular enrolment in the second year of the course is in any case subject to the fulfilment of OFA by 30 September of the calendar year following the year of enrolment.
A student who does not take the initial knowledge test is subject to a career block, and therefore cannot take examinations.
The test aims to verify basic knowledge of mathematics, geometry and probability topics. This knowledge, which should be specific to students in possession of a secondary school qualification, is the basic tool indispensable for tackling the course of study envisaged by the degree course. They are in fact essential to be able to outline a symbolic and mathematical representation of problems, which will then be better defined and dealt with in depth in the programmes of the various subjects.
The student must demonstrate familiarity with the fundamentals of algebra, the ability to simplify an algebraic expression, knowledge of the basic properties of geometric figures, the ability to use Cartesian coordinates and a basic knowledge of the frequentist approach to probability with regard to simple problems. In addition, the test also aims to verify the mastery, albeit circumscribed, of mathematical reasoning and appropriate language.