UBC Chemistry Basic Skills Test - Information

UBC Chemistry Basic Skills Test - Information

Last page update: June 1st, 2026 - BST registration opens June 15th, 2026.

The UBC Chemistry Basic Skills Test (BST) assesses the readiness of students to take CHEM_V 111. Determine whether
you need to take the Basic Skills Test using the diagram below:

Based on the results of the Basic Skills Test, you will be informed of the introductory course that would best
result in your academic success:

• CHEM_V 111, an accelerated course with lecture and lab components covering a selection of B.C. CHEM 12 and
  CHEM_V 121 topics.

OR

• CHEM_V 100, an accelerated lecture-only course covering B.C. CHEM 11 and B.C. CHEM 12.

CHEM_V 111 serves as a prerequisite for CHEM_V 123, and CHEM_V 100 serves as a prerequisite for CHEM_V 121.
Students that successfully complete CHEM_V 100 may enroll in CHEM_V 121 and 123 in future summer terms so that
their academic progress is not impeded.

Students entering CHEM_V 111 from the wait-list will have to schedule a laboratory section into their timetable.
Laboratory space is limited and students have to complete the Basic Skills Test before the deadline to secure a
spot (pending the outcome of the Basic Skills Test).

For the Fall T1 Term - Writing the Basic Skills Test:

The Basic Skills Test is a timed, multiple choice assessment delivered online:

1) Students will register on the CHEM_V 111 waitlist. (Note: B.Sc. students with B.S. Chemistry 11 register for
CHEM_V 111 directly and writing the BST is not required)

2) Students will sign up to write the CHEM BST using the following link:

3) Students will receive an email confirmation with instructions to take the Chemistry BST, and a deadline to
complete the Chemistry BST. Students can attempt the Chemistry BST only once. Students having technical problems
during the Chemistry BST may have to write a paper examination on-campus in September in order to complete their
registration. Students should use the Chemistry Department Advising Inquiry Form (https://ost.chem.ubc.ca) to contact the Department if this occurs.

The UBC Chemistry BST is 20-30 multiple-choice questions. Most of these questions will require the use of a
calculator. A periodic table with element symbols, atomic numbers and atomic masses will be provided.

4) After you write the Chemistry BST, the Chemistry department can recommend and/or place you into a course (CHEM_V
100 or CHEM_V 111) that maximizes your chances for academic success.

5) Students who do not agree with the Department’s placement may request an interview and examination with a
Chemistry faculty member in late August or early September. The examination may be oral or written. Students should
use the Chemistry Department Advising Inquiry Form (https://ost.chem.ubc.ca) to contact the Department.

6) The Chemistry Basic Skills Test asks questions related to the published learning outcomes of British Columbia
CHEM 11: The B.C. Grade 11 Chemistry Learning Outcomes

A set of 5 example questions is provided here.