Compass Requirement

COMPASS@ASTATE

The Computer-Adaptive Placement Assessment and Support System (COMPASS) is a computer-adaptive system to assist students by gathering information about their educational needs and plans and measuring their skills in areas of reading, writing, and mathematics. COMPASS communicates this information to ASU to assist us in advising and placing students into appropriate course levels that match their skills.

QUICK FACTS ABOUT COMPASS

• Exams are available in 3 college-level introductory subjects: Reading Placement; Math Placement and Writing Placement
• ASU uses COMPASS scores to place students into appropriate college-credit courses or developmental courses.
• COMPASS is administered on computer and exams are available year-round. Score reports are available immediately upon completion of the exam. Candidates know right away how they performed. This knowledge aids in course selection when scheduling classes.
• Placement scores in COMPASS are as follows:
  English - 0-33 language development; 34-74 writing tutorial; 75+ English I
  Math - 0-29 intro algebra; 30-40 intermediate algebra; 41+ college algebra
  Reading - 0-71 reading I; 72-81 reading II; 82+ no reading course required
• Each exam costs $10. To register for a COMPASS test, pay $10 at the ASU Cashier's Window and bring the payment receipt to the Testing Center. You can then register for a test time based on your schedule and computer availability. We recommend registering approximately two weeks prior to the time you would like to test.  Test fees are nonrefundable.  A reschedule automatically requires waiting 30 days from the original test date.
• To see sample items that illustrate the types of questions students will encounter in the COMPASSTM placement measures go to:
  www.act.org/compass/sample/index.html