COMPASS-Computerized Placement Tests (CPT)

COMPASS® is a comprehensive computerized adaptive test used by NOC to determine course placement for entering students.  If you did not score a 19 or better in any subsection on the ACT® you have the right to challenge your ACT score by taking a COMPASS placement test.  If you are over 21 you will be required to take the COMPASS test.  COMPASS is not a pass/fail, but instead determines which courses are best suited to the student's level of readiness.  The placement test consists of 3 different tests: math, reading and writing with each test being unique and untime.  **See below for determination of science placement.  You must complete the admission process prior to testing.  Initial testing is free.  There is a $10 charge per test for a 2nd attempt.  If a student desires a 3rd attempt, $10 per test charge & students must have scored within 5 points of the cut score for COMPASS Math and Reading and within 2 points for E-write.  Students are limited to 1 attempt per day.  Any retest have to be completed before the end of each enrollment period.  Testing for the entire battery of test will take approximately 2½ to 3½ hours. You need to bring your photo ID with you to test. 

In preparation for the Compass Placement Tests the following web resources may be used: 

Math   www.brazosport.edu/StudentSuccessCenter/Pages/Algebra-Modules.aspx            

                    www.interactmath.com       Recommended Books----Tobey

The tester will solve PRe-Algebra, Algebra & College Algebra problems. 

Reading     www.eslus.com/LESSONS/READING/READ.HTM

                                https://web.gsc.edu/fs/mhorton/LSEnglish

The tester will read passages and answer questions about the passages.

Writing     www.persuasiveessayguide.com/  

                   www.essayinfo.com - Choose Persuasive Essay

The tester will write a persuasive essay based on a hypothetical situation.

You may also log onto www.act.org/compass for sample questions and detailed descriptions of each tests.

You can also try www.testpreview.com (Compass Test Practice).

**Students who are over 21 will use a combine score from your math and reading placement test.  If a student needs to be tested for science based on a 18 or below on their ACT, testing will be as follow.  Students with 19 or above in Math, Reading & English will take the Science Reading test only.  If both Reading and Science are below 19, will take the Reading test only.  If Reading is a 19 or above and Science is below 19 and Math is a 17 or 18, will take Science Reading and if you would like to challenge Math can take the Math test.  If Math is 16 or below, will have to take the math test.