1. Which placement test is offered at ACC?

 

ACC offers the COMPASS placement test.  This is an untimed, computer-adaptive test.  Although the entire test is on the computer, test-takers with limited computer skills can still take the test.

 

2. Who is required to take the placement test?

After submitting an application to Alamance Community College, students entering most of ACC’s curriculum programs are required to take the placement test. Testing waivers can be granted to students who meet one of the following criteria:

(1) ACT Composite of at least 21 or

(2) SAT scores of at least 500 Math, 480 Critical Reading and 480 Writing or

(3) College-level English and math coursework, with a grade of "C" or better, on an official college transcript.

* Pre-nursing students must take the placement tests regardless of their SAT or ACT scores. However, college-level English and math coursework meeting the above criteria will be accepted in lieu of placement testing.

3. When/where is the placement test offered?

The testing room is in the Student Development Office on the 1^st floor of the Gee Building.  Unless otherwise noted, placement testing has the following schedule:

         Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday                                8:00 am-12 noon (walk-in)

         Tuesday evening                                                        5:30 pm (appointment only)

 

4.  How much does it cost to take the test?

ACC does not charge a fee to take or re-take the placement test.

 

5.  How much time do I have to complete the test?

The COMPASS test is untimed.  You should allow at least 2 ½ hours if you are planning to take the entire test.

 

6.  Can I study for the placement test?

Yes!  You are strongly encouraged to prepare for your placement test. Visit our Test Preparation page for more information about study materials available online and on-campus.

In addition to preparing for the test, the best thing you can do is allow yourself plenty of time to complete the test.  The test is untimed but, on average, it takes about 2 hours to complete the entire test.  If you do not have at least a 2 ½ hour block of time, please speak with the testing coordinator about your testing options.

 

7.  What material is on the test?  What is the test format?

 

The entire test is multiple choice and covers reading, writing and math. 

 

For the reading portion, test-takers will read a paragraph and answer several questions about that paragraph. 

 

For the writing portion, test-takers will edit a paragraph for grammatical errors. 

 

The math section is adaptive.  It will begin with pre-algebra (fractions, decimals, etc).  The test will continue into beginning and intermediate Algebra, as long as the test-taker is answering most of the questions correctly.

 

8.  What should I bring to the test?

 

Please bring your photo I.D. 

 

The testing office provides calculators, pencils and scratch paper. You can use your own calculator as long as it meets the conditions outlined here.

 

In addition, you will need to know your ACC Student ID or your full Social Security Number in order to log in to the testing system.

 

9.  When will I receive my test scores?  What happens after I take the test?

 

Your test scores will print immediately after you finish your test.  You will then meet with the testing coordinator to go over your scores and, if applicable, your re-test options.  If you are registering or need to speak with an advisor you can do so at this time.

 

10.  Can I take the placement test again?

 

Yes, but you can only take the placement test twice in a calendar year.  Please consult the Forms menu to view our re-test form and find out how you can arrange your 2^nd placement test.