COMPASS Frequently Asked Questions

What is COMPASS?
COMPASS (COMputer-adaptive Placement Assessment and Support Services) is a placement tool designed to measure your currrent skills in reading, writing and math. Throughtout the testing, the COMPASS program will adapt to your abilities. The questions will increase or decrease in difficulty based on your previous answers.

Why do I need to take the COMPASS test?
The Alabama Department of Education requires placement tests for all students who register for English, reading, mathematics or for more than four semester hours. To see if you may be exempt from taking the test, click here. The results of the COMPASS test help you and your advisor decide where you should begin your academic career. It is important that you do your best since these results will affect your level and the number of classes you take at Northwest-Shoals Community College.

What is the cost to take the COMPASS test?
There is no charge for the first attempt of the test.

What should I expect during the test?
The COMPASS system is composed of tests in 3 subject areas: reading, writing, and math. The questions are asked from the easiest to the most difficult. The test begins with the easiest questions, and with every correct answer, the questions get progressively more difficult. If your answer is right, the next question will be harder and your score will go up. If your answer is wrong, the next question will be easier and your score will go down. It is important that you answer the first questions correctly. If you don't answer the easy questions correctly, the program won't allow you to move on to the more difficult ones, and your score will be low as a result.

What should I bring with me?
All test candidates are required to bring a current photo ID. You may also bring an approved calculator for the mathematics portion of the test, or you may use the computer-based calculator provided.

How long will the test take?
The test is not timed. You may take as little or as much time as needed. The average testing time is about two hours.

What if I'm not comfortable with computers?
There will be help available in the Testing Center for those who need help. They cannot answer test questions for you, but they can assist you in any other way.

When will I know the results of the test?
You will receive your COMPASS test results immediately upon completion of testing. To download a sample report to know exactly what the report will tell you, click here.

Can I retake the test if I don't do well?
If you don't think the results match your abilities, you may retake the test. There is an $8.00 charge to retake the test. This fee should be paid in the Cashier's Office and the receipt brought to the Testing Center prior to retesting. If you wish to retake the test for a third time, persmission of the Dean of Instruction is required.

Who should I contact to take the test?
To schedule an 8:00 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. test, call (256) 331-5375 or (256) 331-5359
To schedule a 5:00 p.m. test, call (256) 331-5482.

Where should I go?
Click here to download the Shoals Campus map.

Competency Testing Center      256-331-5482

Advising/Testing Center    256-331-5375 or (256) 331-5359

or Contact Tom Carter in the Admissions Office for additional information.      256-331-5263