Study Guide

  • Relax. The COMPASS test is designed to help you succeed.

  • Allow enough time. You will need 1-2 hours to take the test. The test is not timed, so there is no need for you to rush.

  • Read the test instructions carefully. It is easy to miss a question simply because you didn't completely understand the question.

  • Don't skip any questions.

  • Don't be afraid to ask for help. The test administrator can't answer test questions, but they can assist in any other way.

  • Brush up on your math basics. The math test will have material that you may not have studied in a long time, so take a look at Math Pre-Test sample items to get an idea of what to expect.

  • Don't stress! You cannot fail the COMPASS test. Just do your best!
 What to Expect

The Writing Skills Test:

Test candidates are presented with an essay on-screen and are then asked to read the eaasy looking for errors in spelling, grammar usage, and style. Upon finding an error, students may replace the portion of text with one of five alternatives.


The Reading Test:

The Reading Test measures your ability to read and comprehend written material. Students must determine the meaning of selected texts. You will be asked to read a passage and then answer questions about that passage.

The Math Test:

The Math Test covers everything from basic math to college algebra (depending on your skills). Remember this is an interactive test and the program will respond to your previous answers by giving you increasingly harder (or easier) questions. This is to determine your current skill level.

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