Overview
ACT Compass is a computer-adaptive college placement test that lets educators:
- Evaluate incoming students' skill levels in Reading, Writing Skills, Writing Essay, Math, and English as a Second Language
- Place students in appropriate courses
- Connect students to the resources they need to achieve academic success
Benefits
ACT Compass offers:
- Fast and accurate assessments to guide optimal course placement decisions.
- Customization of test packages, cutoff scores, and placement messages to ensure results that meet the specific needs of your institution.
- Comprehensive reporting at the student and program level allows for optimal student advising and program evaluation decisions based on empirical data.
- ATB approval by the U.S. Department of Education for use in determining student eligibility for Title IV financial aid funding.
- High school outreach for early intervention and dual-enrollment programs in feeder high schools.
- Remote testing to meet the assessment needs of your students anywhere in the country.
For Students
ACT Compass is an untimed, computerized test that helps your college evaluate your skills and place you into appropriate courses. Compass offers tests in reading, writing, math, writing essay, and English as a Second Language (ESL). You will receive your Compass test results immediately upon completion of testing, and your score report will include placement messages informing you what courses you should take and how to register.
How Can I Take the Compass Tests?
Most institutions give Compass during orientation to incoming freshmen who have already applied and been admitted to the school. Some institutions may require you to take one or more of the Compass tests before enrolling in a particular program or course. Talk to your advisor, counselor, or Office of Student Services to determine the requirements and recommendations of your institution.
Updates
System-wide maintenance periods are now scheduled as shown below. No Saturday night/Sunday testing or reporting with COMPASS will be possible during the following Saturday night/Sunday periods:
- Mar 16–17, 2013 — Saturday, 5 p.m. CDT thru Sunday, 5 p.m.
- Apr 20–21, 2013 — Saturday, 5 p.m. CDT thru Sunday, 5 p.m.
- May 18–19, 2013 — Saturday, 5 p.m. CDT thru Sunday, 5 p.m.
- Jun 22–23, 2013 — Saturday, 5 p.m. CDT thru Sunday, 5 p.m.
- Jul 20–21, 2013 — Saturday, 5 p.m. CDT thru Sunday, 5 p.m.
- Aug 17–18, 2013 — Saturday, 5 p.m. CDT thru Sunday, 5 p.m.
- Sep 14–15, 2013 — Proposed: Saturday, 5 p.m. CDT thru Sunday, 5 p.m.