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Computer-adaptive Placement and Support Services

Frequently Asked Question about the COMPASS Test

Q. What is the COMPASS Assessment Testing?

COMPASS is a computerized test that provides important information about individual skills and preparation for college-level courses. It is an untimed, adaptive computer-based test that measures skills in Reading, Writing, and Mathematics.

Q. Who is required to take the COMPASS?

All full-time students or transfer students are required to submit ACT or SAT scores to take the COMPASS test.  All technical students will take the compass upon entering and exiting of program.  The purpose of the assessment is to place students in appropriate Math, Reading, and English courses on the basis of their skill level and to promote successful college experiences. Placement is mandatory for Math and English classes. The following placement rules apply:

Using COMPASS scores:

Writing  
23 or below PREP-010 Developmental English
24 through 54 PREP-009 Written Communications
55 or above ENGL-101 English Composition I

Reading
Students scoring below a 72 need to enroll in a reading course.

Math  
Pre-Algebra Test  
0 through 23 PREP-003 Elements of Math
24 through 100 PREP-005 Introductory Algebra

 

Algebra Test  
0 through 30 PREP-005 Introductory Algebra
31 through 44 MATH-102 Intermediate Algebra
45 though 100 MATH-105 College Algebra

 

College Algebra Test  
0 through 42 MATH-105 College Algebra

Using ACT scores:

English  
12 or below PREP-010 Developmental English
13 through 15 PREP-009 Written Communications
16 or above ENGL-101 English Composition I

 

Reading  
14 or below BCTC-163 Applied Communications

 

Math  
12 or below Take COMPASS for placement
13 through 15 PREP-005 Introductory Algebra
16 through 19 MATH-102 Intermediate Algebra
20 or above MATH-105 College Algebra

All new students should either send a copy of their ACT or SAT scores to the Admissions & Advising Center or bring a copy with them when they enroll. If students have not taken the ACT or SAT, or do not have a copy on file, they will be required to take the COMPASS test before enrollment can be completed. For more information contact the Admissions & Advising Center.

Q. What does the COMPASS measure?

  • COMPASS is a computerized adaptive test that measures skills in reading, writing and mathematics to determine readiness for college-level courses in these areas.
  • Reading
    The student is given one or more passages to read, and then answers questions about the passage.
  • Writing
    The student is presented with an essay and asked to look for errors in grammar, punctuation, usage, and style.
  • Mathematics
    The student solves problems which measure numerical, pre-algebra, and algebra skills. Some of the areas included are: basic operations with integers, fractions, decimals; exponents; ratios and proportions; percentages; and topics in elementary algebra, intermediate algebra, and coordinate geometry.

    COMPASS is used by the technical programs to assess students comprehension level in Reading, English, and Math. Test scores are used to indicate how successful a student may be in a program and also to let the student and instructor assess where the student may need additional help. The student may be required to participate in additional learning lab activities depending on scores.

Q. How much does it cost to take the COMPASS?

Students who are taking COMPASS to challenge placement based on ACT scores and students who are retaking COMPASS will be charged $10.00.


Students required to take COMPASS for admission to the college will not be charged.

Q. How do I obtain my COMPASS results?

Results are given to student on day of testing. The college keeps a copy of the students test scores in a confidential student file.

Q. How can I prepare for COMPASS?

Many students find it helpful to review basic mathematics skills if they have not used them recently. For example, if it has been some time since the student has added, multiplied and divided fractions, he or she may want to practice these skills before taking COMPASS. It is very important for the student to give a best effort on the assessment test to ensure accurate placement and advisement. Sample questions are available at the following website: http://act.org/compass/sample/index.html


NOTE: An on-screen calculator is available for use during the math test; if a student wishes to bring a calculator, one up to a TI-85 or TI-86 may be used.

Q. When should COMPASS be taken?

The COMPASS is given at scheduled times throughout the year. Students need to take the test prior to enrollment.

Q. Where do I take COMPASS?

To schedule a COMPASS test at Coffeyville Community College, main campus, call 800.782.4732 Cari Redden, ext. 7002. Testing hours are from 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Appointments or walk-in's are welcome.

To schedule a COMPASS test at Coffeyville Community College, Coffeyville Technical campus, call 800.782.4732 Belinda Robinson, ext. 24, to schedule a test weekdays. Testing hours are from 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

To schedule a COMPASS test at Coffeyville Community College, Columbus Technical campus, call 800.208.8324, Jolene Howerton, ext. 300, to schedule a test by appointment. Testing days and hours are Monday - Wednesday 8:00 a.m. - 3:00.m.

Q. Should I bring anything with me on the day I test?

You must bring a photo I.D. and proof of your social security number (SSN) in order to test. No one will be admitted to the testing lab without the above identification, such as a driver's license, military I.D. card, or school I.D. card. Most photo I.D.'s have the SSN printed on them, but if yours does not, you must bring an additional I.D. on which your SSN is printed.

Q. How long will the test last?

Allow approximately two hours to complete the entire test.