Compass Overview

Overview

The assessments that you are about to take are part of a system named COMPASS ( Computer-Adaptive Placement Assessment and Support System), which is used to place you in classes that match your abilities.

It is a college requirement that all three parts of the assessment are taken although some courses do not require a COMPASS score.

It is important to keep these scores with you for registration and counseling purposes. These scores will place you in courses that will help you develop the necessary skills for success in your future classes. Therefore, it is very important you realize the reason for taking this assessment and do your very best.

COMPASS is a placement test, which is different than most tests you have taken in the past. Unlike most tests you have taken before, you can’t fail this test. Only correct answers are counted; there is no penalty for wrong answers. Scrap paper, pencils, and calculators are supplied by the testing center. The assessment test is not timed. Allow an average of one and a half hours to complete. You may take breaks during the test.

This test measures your knowledge in three skill areas:

  • Reading Skills (Vocabulary & Reading Comprehension) • Finding the Main Idea • Locating Explicit Information • Making Inferences
  • Writing Skills (Writing Diagnostic Scores) • Punctuation • Spelling • Capitalization • Usage • Verb Formation/Agreement • Relationships of Clauses • Shifts in Construction • Organization
  • Mathematics Skills (Mathematics Placement Measures) Numerical Skills • Algebra • College Algebra • Trigonometry • Geometry • Integers • Fractions • Decimals • Exponents • Ratios and Proportions • Percentages • Averages • Substitution • Setting Up Equations • Basic Operations/Polynomials • Linear Equations (One & Two Variables) • Exponents • Rational Expressions • Linear Equations (Two Variable)

Testing Tips

  • Read the general instructions slowly, and carefully follow them.
  • Educated guesses are worthwhile because only correct answers are counted; there are no penalties for wrong answers.
  • Make changes in answers cautiously; be sure the change is justified and not due to nervousness..
  • Close your eyes and take five deep breaths from your abdomen just prior to the test.
  • Eat a healthy breakfast the morning of the test. Your mind is like a muscle; it needs fuel to work at peak levels.

Using a Computer to take COMPASS Assessments

Typically, even people who are not familiar with computers find COMPASS easy to manage. Your test proctor will always be available to answer questions about the computer. You will need to type in your name, social security number, and other personal identification at the beginning.

When typing your birth date, please use the format understood by the computer. For example, if your birthday is November 5, 1966, enter 11/05/66 using the top row of numbers directly above the letters on the keyboard.

Some questions ask you to choose from a list. If you do not see your choice, choose “other” from the bottom of the list.

If you have any questions or problems regarding the operation of the computer, contact the test proctor for assistance.

Compass Facts

  • Picture identification is required for all testing, no exceptions.
  • If MCC classes are cancelled, scheduled tests are also cancelled.
  • The assessment may be taken at either the Sidney or Greenville campus.  COMPASS assessment space is limited to ten people so appointments are encouraged.
  • New students will take three assessments: Reading, Writing and Math.
  • Students should plan on approximately half an hour per assessment.  Plan for approximately 1 1/2 hours for entire assessment (reading, writing, and math).
  • Students must have their social security number.
  • Keep your results for counselor usage and enrollment purposes.
  • No children, food, drink, or electronic communication devices allowed in testing center.
  • Prior to taking, new students must complete an Application for Admission.

Contact Us

Students with disabilities who require accommodations should contact the Educational Assistance Office at 989-328-1264.