Frequently Asked Questions
Fax: 253.680.7031
Testing@bates.ctc.edu
Downtown Campus, Rm. M216
Mon: 8:30-10 a.m.
Tue: 8:30-11 a.m., 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Wed: 8:30-11 a.m.
Thu: 8:30-11 a.m.
Fri: 8:30-10 a.m.
South Campus, Rm. 105 By appt. only
Can I retake the COMPASS test?
Yes. The re-testing fee for any section is $5.65. Students may re-test after a 30 day waiting period. Only three re-tests per calendar year are permitted.
Do you accept COMPASS scores from other colleges?
Yes. COMPASS and ASSET scores within the last two years may be used for enrollment and registration.
I need special accommodations. Who do I contact?
For those with special needs, disability services are available. Accommodations may be available if arranged well in advance through Disability Support Services. Visit the web page or call 253.680.7013 more information.
How can I show an Ability-to-Benefit for financial aid?
COMPASS Placement measures have been approved by the U.S. Department of Education for use in determining student eligibility for Title IV financial aid funding (available through the Ability-to-Benefit requirements and procedures that went into effect in July 2011).
Students who do not have a high school diploma or a GED and are applying for financial aid test for the "ability-to- benefit." This requires pre-authorization in the Assessment Center.
What do I do with my COMPASS test results?
Your results will be provided to you immediately following the test. Your next step in the enrollment process is to apply to the college. You should contact the career advisor listed on the printout of your test results to schedule an appointment and complete the application form.
What kinds of questions will be asked on the COMPASS?
The COMPASS Reading Test measures reading comprehension.
The COMPASS Writing Test measures usage/mechanics (punctuation, basic grammar, word usage, and sentence structure) and rhetorical skills (strategy, organization, and style in effective writing).
The COMPASS Mathematics Test includes five content domains: pre-algebra/numerical skills, algebra, college algebra, geometry, and trigonometry. Students choose the initial math domain they test in, and the computer-adaptive system moves them up into domains based on their proficiency level.
You can visit the official COMPASS website to see sample questions.
English is my second language. Can I still take the COMPASS?
The COMPASS English as a Second language (ESL) Placement Test is a comprehensive computerized-adaptive testing system that helps place students into appropriate ESL courses and maximizes their chances for success.
The ESL Placement Test has four components: grammar/usage; reading; listening; mathematics. The ESL COMPASS test is offered at the same time as the COMPASS.
