Get Going • Academic Assessment • COMPASS FAQ's
COMPASS FAQ's
Do I have to take the COMPASS test?
How much does it cost to take the COMPASS?
Can I study for the COMPASS test?
Will my COMPASS score keep me from attending SCC?
What if I fail the COMPASS test?
May I retake the COMPASS to improve my scores?
How do I sign-up for a COMPASS test?
Should I bring anything with me when I take the COMPASS?
How soon will I know the results of my COMPASS test?
What is the COMPASS test?
The American College Testing Program’s COMPASS Placement test was developed to help those entering college to succeed in their educational goals. COMPASS is a computer-adaptive placement test that measures skills in reading, English, and mathematics. The main purpose of the skills assessment is to help identify your current strengths and needs so you may build a solid plan for success in the educational options you choose to pursue at Somerset Community College.
Do I have to take the COMPASS test?
Students enrolling in KCTCS colleges for the purpose of earning credit applicable toward a certificate, diploma, or associate degree must demonstrate through the ACT or COMPASS that they possess the minimum academic skills essential for success. The COMPASS is required of all applicants who do not score an 18 or higher on the ACT in reading, English and mathematics. If you have never taken the ACT, the COMPASS will be used for placement.
How much does it cost to take the COMPASS?
Everyone must first complete and submit an admissions application to Somerset Community College before taking the COMPASS test, after you submit your application there will be no charge for the COMPASS test. If you do not submit an admissions application there will be a $20.00 testing fee. If you are required to take a COMPASS post-test in English or reading, you will not be charged. Post-tests are scheduled by the instructor, and given to classes, not to individuals. If you choose to retest, there is a fee of $7.00 per section or $20.00 for the complete retest. If you are a non-student or will be using the COMPASS test results for a hiring process, the fee is $20.00 for the complete test and $7.00 for section.
Can I study for the COMPASS test?
The main purpose of the COMPASS is to help you identify your present strengths and needs. The results help your advisor determine where you need to begin studies in mathematics, reading, and English. Sometimes, a review of these subjects may prove helpful. Sample questions are available in the Assessment Center or online at HYPERLINK "http://www.act.org/compass/sample/index.html" www.act.org/compass/sample/index.html.
Will my COMPASS score keep me from attending SCC?
The COMPASS is a placement test. Your scores help you and your advisor select the courses you need to be successful. English and mathematics courses require certain scores as prerequisites. A minimum score in reading is also required for entry-level classes. For students seeking a certificate or a diploma, minimum COMPASS scores are required for program admission. Students intending to enroll in these programs are not exempt from the admission requirement; however, concurrent enrollment in program courses and academic-related instruction (ARI) is permitted.
What if I fail the COMPASS test?
Although there are cut-off scores for enrolling in certain courses, COMPASS is not a pass-fail test. It is a course placement test. Your scores will indicate where your strengths and weaknesses are in relation to college-level work for your chosen major. If you need assistance in meeting academic requirements, SCC offers classes in mathematics, reading and English that will prepare you for success in college level courses. There is a 30 day retest policy that applies to re-testing.
May I retake the COMPASS to improve my scores?
A retest on the Compass is not normally recommended. The scores of students who retest generally do not vary more than a point or two. We highly recommend that before you consider retesting, you take the recommended coursework or complete a remediation program. COMPASS cannot be repeated more than one (1) time in a 30 day period.
How do I sign-up for a COMPASS test?
The COMPASS test is administered on a walk-in basis, with first-come, first-served availability Monday through Friday between 8:30 am and 1:00 pm at the Somerset Campus. Please call the Somerset testing center at 606 451-6850 in advance to be sure the center will be open the day you plan to test. If you are unable to test during regular hours, you may contact Steve Saarinen at 606 679-8501 to make arrangements for an evening test in the SCC Somerset Counseling Center.
You can schedule the COMPASS at the following locations by appointment only:
SCC Laurel Campus 606 878-4728
SCC Clinton Center 606 387-3236
SCC McCreary Center 606 376-5747
SCC Casey County 606 787-4732
SCC Russell Center 270 866-2125
Lincoln Co. Adult Education Center 606 365-9665
Wayne Co. Adult Education Center 606 348-5286
Rockcastle Co. Adult Education Center 606 308-5343
Should I bring anything with me when I take the test?
The Assessment Center will provide a pencil, scratch paper and calculator for the COMPASS. If you would like to use your own calculator, you may; however, it must be one from the list of ACT approved calculators. Cell phones with calculator functions and palm pilots cannot be used. You should also bring a photo ID.
How soon will I know the results of my COMPASS test?
The COMPASS will automatically print your results when you have completed the test. You will be given a copy of your results. Your scores will be available to your advisor when you meet with them during your advising session. It is helpful to take your copy of the COMPASS results with you when you meet with your advisor.
