COMPASS Test

What is the Compass test?

The COMPASS test is an un-timed, computerized, multiple choice, writing, reading and math proctored placement test. The first test is free to new students, re-take fees are $15.00.  The COMPASS test may be re-taken only once after your initial testing. A subsequent re-take may be done after a three month waiting period.

To schedule a COMPASS appointment, call Mount Vernon Campus: 360.416.7697, Whidbey Island Campus:  360.679.5319, San Juan Center: 360.378.3220, South Whidbey Center:  360.321.2324.

  • Your scores reflect a skill level in reading and writing standard American English, and math. 
  • These scores will place you into the reading, English, and math classes you are allowed to take at SVC. 
  • After your test you will make an advising appointment to plan your schedule.  If you plan to attend classes at the Mount Vernon Campus, call the Admissions office at 360.416.7697 to schedule a New Student Group Advising session.  During this session, you will receive an introduction to the college website and help in planning your course of study.  You will have the opportunity to register for classes after your assigned registration date.
  • Enrolling for courses for which your skills are appropriate will increase your chance of success here at SVC and save money.

Preparing for the COMPASS test:

Refresh your skills: Preparation may enable you to place into more advanced courses; not preparing may result in placement into developmental/review classes, using valuable time and tuition dollars.

Helpful Resources and Links:

This site has practice tests:

http://www.testpreppractice.net/COMPASS/Free-Online-COMPASS-Practice-Tests.aspx

These are great sites for math practice and review:

 

http://www.sssoftware.com/freeworksheets

http://mathforum.org

This is a great site for English practice and review:

http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar

Test Anxiety and relaxation techniques:

Relaxation techniques

  • Sit quietly and comfortably with eyes closed.
  • Systematically relax your muscles, beginning with your feet and moving up your body.  Tense each muscle group and then release.  Allow streams of relaxation to flow through your body.
  • As distractions come into your mind, let them go, you can deal with them later. Stay in the moment.
  • Continue to relax and breathe for 10-20 minutes once or twice a day.  (but not while driving, yikes!)

Previous college credit?

If you have taken math or English at a previous college, you may not need to take the COMPASS test for placement. Please provide a transcript for verification in your advising session.

Taken the COMPASS test at a different location?

  • COMPASS score reports from a test taken at another institution within the last three years will be accepted and recorded on the SVC database, if they are sent directly from that testing office (by FAX or mail) to the Admissions office.

Skagit Valley College

2405 E College Way

Mount Vernon WA 98273

Attention Admissions

 Fax: 360.416.7890

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