Chemistry Positions Available
Oberlin College Chemistry Course Placement and Credit Policies
Oberlin College offers a comprehensive approach to placing students in chemistry courses based on their academic preparation, whether it be through AP, IB, A-level exams, or the college's own General Chemistry Entrance Survey.
General Chemistry Entrance Survey
All students interested in taking CHEM 101 or CHEM 102 must complete a 60-minute General Chemistry Entrance Survey on Blackboard. This survey helps assess students' readiness for college-level chemistry courses.
Beginning with CHEM 101 or CHEM 102
Most students begin their study of chemistry with CHEM 101. However, students with strong preparation may consider beginning with CHEM 102.
AP, IB, and A-level Credit
Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) credit is granted automatically based on the appropriate exam score. Entering students with a Chemistry AP score of 4 or 5, or an IB higher-level chemistry exam score of 6 or 7, can receive transfer credit equivalent to Chemistry 101 and begin college chemistry with CHEM 102.
Students with A-levels scores of A*, A, B can begin college chemistry with CHEM 102, but no credit is awarded.
Placement in CHEM 102
Placement in CHEM 102 is based either on the General Chemistry Entrance Survey available online before registration or on AP, IB, or A-level scores. Exceptional high school preparation may also warrant placement in CHEM 102 or even Organic Chemistry (CHEM 205).
Organic Chemistry (CHEM 205)
The department chair can consider enrolling students in CHEM 205, Organic Chemistry, if they have exceptional high school preparation in mathematics and chemistry. Students with exceptional high school preparation may petition the department chair to enroll in CHEM 205 if they have an AP score of 4 or 5, an IB higher-level chemistry exam score of 6 or 7, or a passing grade in A-level Chemistry.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the requirements and prerequisites for taking Organic Chemistry (CHEM 205) at Oberlin College, including details about the General Chemistry Entrance Survey, AP, IB, and A-level scores, it is best to consult Oberlin College’s official Chemistry Department webpage or their academic advising resources.
If you would like assistance in finding the most current official Oberlin College requirements, I would be happy to help.
Science plays a significant role in the education-and-self-development of students at Oberlin College, as evidenced by the comprehensive approach they take in placing students in chemistry courses based on academic preparation, including the General Chemistry Entrance Survey. exceptional high school preparation may even warrant placement in Organic Chemistry (CHEM 205), demonstrating a commitment to rigorous science education.
