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Computerized Adaptive Placement Assessment and Support System  (COMPASS)

What is COMPASS?

COMPASS ia a series of basic skill assessments in reading, writing and mathematics that is completed on a computer.  There is no “passing score” with COMPASS.  Rather, the assessment indicates areas that might be a starting point for you in your college career.  Most questionaires require a multiple choice answer.

The time to complete COMPASS varies for each student.*  COMPASS is an untimed test, so you are free to take as much time as you need.  There are three areas of focus on COMPASS:

 READING
The reading assessment evaluates the skills students possess to succeed in entry-level college courses.  Items on the test require multiple choice and text highlighting on the computer.

 WRITING
The writing assessment can determine what skills students need to have to succeed in entry-level college courses.  Items on the test require multiple choice and text highlighting on the computer.

 MATHEMATICS
Test items will begin with pre-Algebra and progress to higher-level mathematics until the student reaches a level of competency. Personal non-graphing, non-programmable calculators may be used for the mathematics assessment.

*A student who does not have a high school diploma or GED must pass a test (approved by the Department of Education) called an ability to benefit test to qualify for financial aid. COMPASS is also used for this purpose. There are minimum passing scores that a student must achieve in each of the three areas to qualify for financial aid.

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Preparation sample questions

Because your test scores will be used for course placement, it is important that you do the best you can on the assessment.  If you need brush-up, it might be helpful to get a copy of a high school algebra or math fundamentals book. You can also refer to the following web site to view sample questions similar to those on the COMPASS test: www.act.org/compass/sample 

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After I finish testing, then what?

Contact the Admissions office to schedule an advising appointment. You will discuss your scores with an advisor and schedule your courses.

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I have no computer experience

NO need to worry!  COMPASS is very user friendly and was designed for those with little or no computer experience.  PLUS, our staff is on hand to walk you through the directions and assist you with getting started.

The amount of time you spend on each area is recorded, but there is no time limit, so you can relax and do the best you can!

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Tips for taking COMPASS

 Relax!  COMPASS is designed to help you succeed in college.
 
 Arrive a couple of minutes early so you can gather your thoughts and locate the Assessment Center.

 Ask questions if you don’t understand the COMPASS process.

 COMPASS adapts to your abilities, which means the questions get harder as you go along.

 Read the questions carefully until you understand what the questions are asking.
 
 Try to answer all the questions, even if you’re not completely sure about the answers.

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Re-test policy

A student may be re-tested in any or all of the components of the COMPASS Placement Test one time.  There is a waiting period from the first administration of the student’s COMPASS Placement Test until the re-test date.  

If you are taking COMPASS to qualify for financial aid and do not obtain the minimum passing scores, you will be required to retake all three tests.

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Scheduling COMPASS assessment tests

Simply call the campus nearest you to make an appointment to take the COMPASS www.  If you require any testing accommodation due to a disability, you need to make arrangements with the testing center.

Clinton Community College
1000 Lincoln Boulevard
Clinton, IA  52732
(563) 244-7004
1-800-637-0559, Ext 7004

Muscatine Community College
152 Colorado Street
Muscatine, IA  52761
(563) 288-6056
1-800-351-4669, ext 6056

Scott Community College
500 Belmont Road
Bettendorf, IA 52722
(563) 441-4088
1-800-895-0811, ext 4088

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