<p>If your son felt he had a good grasp of the mathematics in AP and the community college, I would recommend placing out of math. Your son will probably pass out of single-variable calc, linear algebra I and diffeq I. If he’s missing pieces, then he can fill in the gaps with linear algebra II and differential equations II. I wouldn’t use the placement exams as a good reference because they’re designed to be very difficult to pass. The actual finals are easier than the placement tests.</p>
<p>Both of my roommates and I placed out of 3 courses (one actually placed out of 4) and we were still adequately prepared. The Academic Excellence program for math classes is generally good, so anything that’s still unclear can easily be resolved. In hindsight, all three of us were glad we placed out.</p>
<p>Placing out gives your son more flexibility, which will be very useful in planning his courseloads sophomore year. Engineering majors benefit even more.</p>
<p>If your son is hardcore, though, to be honest community college math classes are simply inferior to Mudd’s math classes. But I consider the advantage of added flexiblity and lighter courseloads to be well worth a mild, short-term sacrifice in mathematical competence.</p>