COMPASS Assessment Testing and Placement
COMPASS Test
COMPASS is a computerized test that confirms your readiness to take college-level classes. This computerized instrument is widely used at community colleges to determine a student’s prior level of achievement in English, Math, and Reading. It is the policy of PSC that students pursuing transfer and all degree programs achieve minimum scores required for entry into courses above the 100 level or complete the necessary developmental coursework.
All new students entering college for the first time are required to take the COMPASS test and meet with an advisor prior to registering for classes. ACT scores may be used in place of COMPASS. Some restrictions apply. For more information, contact the Counseling and Academic Advising Center at (708) 709-3506 for assistance.
Students are encouraged to do their very best when taking the COMPASS test because the results determine whether placement in a developmental course is required, or whether you can work with your advisor to register immediately for college-level classes.
COMPASS FAQs
Can I study for the COMPASS test?
Preparation can save you time and money. While the COMPASS Test does not determine if you are admitted to Prairie State College, it does determine whether or not you can take college-level courses, or if you need to complete developmental courses before taking college-level coursework. Preparing yourself for the COMPASS Test, by reviewing and taking practice tests, can save you lots of time and money. Based on your placement scores, there are up to 3 levels of English review, and up to 4 levels of Math review.
Each developmental course you place into will cost you extra time and money to complete and also uses financial aid eligibility. Please look at the chart below to see the time and money required for each developmental course at Psc.
| Course Number | Length of Course | Number of Hours Billed | Cost | College Credit Earned |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Math 080 | One Semester | 4 | $464.00 | No |
| Math 085 | One Semester | 4 | $464.00 | No |
| Math 090 | One Semester | 4 | $464.00 | No |
| Math 095 | One Semester | 4 | $464.00 | No |
| TOTAL | AMOUNT | PAID | $1856.00 | |
| Reading 098 | One Semester | 4 | $464.00 | No |
| TOTAL | AMOUNT | PAID | $464.00 | |
| English 098 | One Semester | 4 | $464.00 | No |
| English 099 A or B | One Semester | 6 or 3 | $348.00 or $696.00 | No |
| TOTAL | AMOUNT | PAID | $1508.00 |
There are 2 semesters each year, Fall semester (August-December), Spring semester (January-May), and two Summer sessions (June and July). For example, if you needed to take English 098, and Math 090, it would take you one semester to complete the courses, and cost $928 for in-state students. If you needed to complete all 3 levels of English, it would take you one year, and cost $1508. Save yourself time and money, practice and review before you take your placement test. Also remember, financial aid is limited to 90 credit hours for an associates degree.
American College Testing (ACT) program posts sample questions on its Web site, www.act.org/compass. (Click on the "For Students" link at the top and the "Sample Test Questions" link on the left).
- Numerical Skills/ Pre-Algebra, and Algebra Sample Test Questions
- Reading Sample Test Questions
- College Algebra, Geometry, and Trigonometry Sample Test Questions
- Writing Sample Test Questions
Other recommended study materials can be found at these links:
- www.Mathpower.com
- www.aaamath.com
- www.cerritos.edu/reading/tutorials.htm
- http://webster.commnet.edu/grammar
- www.chompchomp.com
I'm transferring to PSC from another college. Do I take the COMPASS test?
Students who have previously completed an English and/or math course with a “C” or better from an accredited college or university are exempt from COMPASS testing. However, official transcripts and completion of a PSC program evaluation form are required of all transfer students as part of the application process.
Students who took the COMPASS test at another college within the past year may submit an official score report to the director of testing. For more information call the director of testing at (708) 709-3603.
How soon should I take the COMPASS test?
Take the test as soon as you can. Courses fill up quickly. You are more likely to get your first choice of classes if you complete testing well before the beginning of the term.
What sections are in the COMPASS test?
COMPASS is comprised of three sections: Math, English, and Reading, and takes approximately three hours to complete. Students also are asked to write a short essay in addition to completing the standardized portion of the test.
What is the procedure for taking COMPASS?
- The first step for taking COMPASS is to visit the Counseling and Academic Advising Center to meet with an advisor. He or she can assist you in completing an admissions application and obtaining a student ID number. A student ID number is REQUIRED to take the COMPASS.
- Choose a testing date that best fits your schedule. Allow three hours to take the test. Please note that is it important to do your very best on COMPASS because this determines your placement into college level courses.
- Bring a photo ID to the test. A calculator is permitted (but optional) for the math portion.
What happens after I take the COMPASS test?
Within three days your scores will be forwarded to the Counseling and Academic Advising Center, where you will meet with a member of the advising team to review your scores and select your classes. An appointment is not required. View advising hours.
Additional information on COMPASS testing may be obtained from Lee Helbert, director of testing, at (708) 709-3639.
Can I bring friend/children/parents to COMPASS testing?
Children and guests are NOT allowed in the COMPASS Testing Center.
COMPASS Dates and Times (Room 2505, Second Floor)
- No appointment necessary for COMPASS Testing.
- Allow approximately three hours to complete the COMPASS Test.
- The COMPASS Testing Center computers will be shut down fifteen minutes prior to the ending times listed above.
Please schedule accordingly. For additional information, contact the testing center at (708) 709-3558.