CVCC Testing Center

COMPASS is a comprehensive, computer adaptive testing system that helps place students in appropriate courses to maximize their success. CVCC utilizes the reading, writing skills, and mathematics sections of COMPASS for course placement. These tests are un-timed. Tutorials are available prior to testing for those students who are unfamiliar with computers.

You will receive your test results as soon as you complete the COMPASS test. You should keep your score report to discuss with your academic advisor. Your advisor will ensure that you are registered for the appropriate courses.

All students applying for an associate degree are required to take COMPASS. Many certificate and diploma programs also require COMPASS. Special credit students, as well as, Dual Enrolled and Huskins students may also be required to take COMPASS. Please see a Student Services counselor to determine which COMPASS tests are required.

Students may be exempt from all or portions of the COMPASS test based on previous college coursework or placement tests from other colleges. Please see a counselor in Student Services to determine if you are exempt from testing.

COMPASS test scores will remain valid for a period of three years. Students who have not taken classes based on original test scores will be required to test again once the three-year period is expired.

ACT recommends no re-testing without remediation unless the original test score is believed to be invalid (i.e. illness or interruption during test administration). Therefore, re-testing on portions of the test will be considered on an individual basis. If extenuating circumstances exist which warrant re-testing, permission may be granted. Re-testing will only be allowed upon request from the math or the humanities division chair. These individuals will submit a re-testing referral form to the Testing Center prior to re-test.

Students may request testing accommodations on the basis of documented disabilities. You must contact Wanda Horvath in Student Services at (828) 327-7000 Ext. 4222 to request testing accommodations.

Calculators are allowed on the COMPASS math test. Students may use personal calculators as long as they meet requirements established by ACT. There is also an online calculator available or the Testing Center can provide students with a calculator.

Students who placed into developmental math courses will be tested during the first week of class to confirm placement accuracy. The math department will determine criteria for testing as well as requirements for changes in course placement.

COMPASS is offered on a walk in basis on various days each month. Please see a counselor in Student Services for testing schedule as well as to determine appropriate tests for you. Students must have a CVCC application on file prior to testing.

Students must present photo identification to be admitted for testing.

You can access additional sample questions and other COMPASS information at www.act.org/compass/index/html .