• COMPASS is taken on a computer
• It is an adaptive test, meaning the questions depend on how you answered previous questions. It is designed to allow you to complete each subtest in a minimum number of exercises or passages. The subtests are writing, reading and math.
• Read the instructions carefully. How well you do may be affected by how well you follow instructions.
• A tutorial will show you how to take the test and how to use the mouse. You can repeat the tutorial if you choose. Make sure that you understand how the test works before starting.
• Take the test at your own pace. There is no time limit. The report will say how long it took you, but it will not affect your score.
• Your score is determined by the accuracy of your responses. It is to your advantage to take your time.
• Once you click that you are done with a passage in writing or reading, or a problem in math, you will not be able to review or change your answers. Be sure that you have given the best possible response before proceeding to the next question.
• When you are finished, you will be prompted to hit ENTER or click anywhere on the screen. When you see the STOP sign on the screen, stop all work and do not press any keys on the keyboard. The computer program will calculate your placement level and your report will be printed immediately. Raise your hand for the proctor and wait for them to motion you to come forward.

Tips for specific COMPASS tests

Writing

In the writing portion of COMPASS, you will be asked to proofread one to five passages and to choose corrections. Read the instructions and go through the tutorial carefully. Make sure that you understand it before continuing.

Reading

You will have from one to five passages to read, and you will answer questions about those passages. The objective is to see how well you understand what you have read. Read the instructions and go through the tutorial carefully.

The COMPASS reading test is very similar to the ASSET reading test.

Mathematics

Write your name, date and ID on the scratch paper provided and return it to the test proctor when you are finished. Use the software's calculator or your own ACT approved calculator. Take your time and review each answer before you click that you are done.

You will start at a certain level of mathematics problems. Depending on how you answer, the next question may be harder or easier. You may have as few as five problems to work. Remember that you will not be able to return to previous questions.

Test Preparation

A book "Charting Your Success with COMPASS" is available in KCC's Learning Resource Center.

The Learning Lab - Room L329 at KCC offers free computerized English/writing, reading and math skills reviews. Eight computer stations are available. Each has an instruction binder for use with the programs. You do not have to be a current student to use these services for placement test preparation. Learning Lab hours are 9 a.m - 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Fridays. For more information on the Learning Lab contact Bernadette Bosley at (815) 802-8474.  For more information on taking the COMPASS test, contact (815) 802-8530.

Online preparation is available on the web at:

www.act.org/compass/sample/writing.html (for writing);

www.act.org/compass/sample/reading.html (for reading);

www.act.org/compass/sample/math.html (for math)

We have a computer in Student Services, Room D222 set up with the above web sites as well.

COMPASS testing is offered at KCC during Testing Center hours.(815) 802-8530 Photo ID is required.

Although no appointment is necessary, a slip from an advisor in Student Services is required prior to testing. Allow 2 1/2 hours to complete COMPASS.