Placement Test

TVCC uses the COMPASS placement test. This test is administered on the computer and is an un-timed test.  Students receive their scores immediately after completing the assessments. You do not need an appointment to take the COMPASS test.  Drop by during test center hours or call 541-881-5799. 

Who should take the placement test?

You must take the placement test if you are seeking a college degree or certificate, or are taking a math or English course in college for the first time.

What do I need to bring to test?

1. Photo Identification (you will not be allowed to test without a valid photo ID)
2. Social Security Number – it is not necessary to bring your card if you know your number.  (If you do not have a social security number or choose to not provide us with it, a number can be assigned to you).
3. A silent hand-held calculator if you have one; if not, there is a basic calculator on the computer.  The following types of calculators are prohibited:
   
   • calculators with built-in computer algebra systems
     Prohibited calculators in this category include:
     
     • Texas Instruments: All model numbers that begin with TI-89 or TI-92 and the TI-Nspire CAS
     • Hewlett-Packard: HP 48GII and all model numbers that begin with HP 40G, HP 49G, or HP 50G
     • Casio: Algebra fx 2.0, ClassPad 300 and ClassPad 330, and all model numbers that begin with CFX-9970G
       
   • handheld, tablet, or laptop computers, including PDAs
   • electronic writing pads or pen-input devices
   • calculators built into cell phones or any other electronic communication devices
   • calculators with a typewriter keypad (letter keys in QWERTY format
     

Where do I go?

The Testing Center is in theFour Rivers Cultural Center next to the Student Services Center.

How long will it take?

The exams are un-timed.  Please allow at least 90 minutes to complete all three exams.

What if I’ve never used a computer?

You do not need experience with a computer to take the test. Testing staff will be available throughout your test.

What happens next?

You will receive a copy of your placement scores immediately following your test. Stop by the Student Services Center to schedule an appointment with an advisor.  Because of the confidential nature of your scores, placement scores will not be faxed or given to you by phone.

What if I think my scores are “wrong?”

If you believe that your placement scores do not accurately reflect your skills, you are allowed to retest once in a quarter. TVCC charges $10 to retest. We strongly encourage you to speak with an academic advisor before you retest.

Is it possible to prepare for placement tests?

·         The placement test is not a pass or fail exam.  It is designed to help you to be successful in school and helps your advisor determine the appropriate courses for your current level of knowledge and skills.

·         Ask questions if you need to.

·         The test is not timed and you are allowed to take breaks during the test.  Please feel free to get up and walk around if you need to.  If you are tired, you may end the test and return another day to complete the test.

·         You may view sample questions for each test at the COMPASS web site.

Math

http://www.act.org/compass/sample/math.html

http://www.act.org/compass/sample/pdf/numerical.pdf

http://www.act.org/compass/sample/pdf/geometry.pdf

Reading

http://www.act.org/compass/sample/reading.html

http://www.act.org/compass/sample/pdf/reading.pdf

Writing Skills

http://www.act.org/compass/sample/writing.html

http://www.act.org/compass/sample/pdf/writing.pdf