Many students enter courses in college without an adequate background or collection of skills from their high school algebra to succeed in Calculus. This results in fairly high failure rates in the first semester of Calculus. This project is focused primarily on the implementation of the web-based system WeBWorK to examine a student's knowledge of Algebra before entering a course in Calculus. In this thesis we propose introducing WeBWorK gateway exams to San Diego State University as a better screening tool for the introductory calculus courses. We provide details about the features of online gateway exams and step by step instructions for creating them. By implementing online gateway exams, instructors can focus on teaching the concepts of the course, rather than dealing with ill-prepared students. This should aid the institution in planning appropriate courses and gaining confidence that the courses offered are meeting student's needs.
