COMPASS Exams

COMPASS™ is a comprehensive testing system which is computer-adaptive, meaning that when you answer a question you will not get the opportunity to correct your answer, so be certain that you click on the answer you intended. Compass is un-timed so there no need to hurry.

Compass helps place students into appropriate courses while maximizing the information colleges need to ensure student success. Using the latest technology, COMPASS measures students' skills in reading, writing, and mathematics. The system also includes e-Write, an electronically scored direct writing assessment that provides results in seconds. It provides fast, accurate results to help you make the right course placement decisions. Compass is used at TAMU - Commerce in making placement decisions for enrolling in college-level courses to satisfy the Texas Success Initiative (TSI).*

*If you have any questions about TSI, please contact your advisor for more information.

Compass Test Date and Fees:

COMPASS exams are offered during normal office hours and are scheduled by appointment only. Compass fee is $25 per section or $55 for all 3 sections (reading, writing, and mathematics). We accept cash, credit card or money orders only. (No checks!) Call 903-886-5122 to schedule an appointment or for more information.

What to Expect on the day of the Exam

Report to McDowell Business Administration Building Room 315 on the date and time for which you are scheduled.
A valid photo ID is required.
The test has 3 sections and is approximately 2 and 1/2 hours long. (you may leave when you finish the section(s) you are taking)

Bring these items to the test center:

Acceptable identification
Sharpened soft-lead (No. 2) pencils with good erasers. (No mechanical pencils)
You may use a four-function nonprogrammable calculator (note: calculators will not be supplied at the test center.)

Do NOT bring*

cellular phones
watch with audible alarm
mechanical pencils
pens
textbooks
foreign language dictionaries
dictionaries
notes or other aids
scratch paper
highlighters
Compass, protractor, ruler, or any other aids
pagers or beepers
photographic devices
CD or tape players
reading material
food, drink (including water)

*If any of the prohibited items are brought to the center they will be taken up and turned off (if necessary). The center is not responsible for lost or stolen items.

Test Prep Resources:

For additional information, including study material if available, go to http://www.act.org/compass/sample/index.html