COMPASS Basic Skills Assessment
- Average time to take the test is 2-1/2 hours
- Test may be taken on a walk-in basis, no appointments are necessary
- A calculator can be used for the math test and scratch paper is available
COMPASS®/English as a Second Language is a comprehensive, computerized adaptive testing system. Students new to SMC who are pursuing certificates and degree programs take the COMPASS/ESL Basic Skills Assessment tests in reading, writing, and math before registering for classes. These tests help ensure that students are placed in courses that best suit their present skill level.
Certain levels of proficiency in English, math, and reading are necessary for you to be successful in your college program. If you register for classes that require skills in areas that you have not yet mastered, the classes will be difficult for you. Similarly, if you register for classes that are teaching the basic skills you already possess, you will be bored. Basic skills assessment testing prevents both of these difficulties and allows you to begin your college career on a level appropriate for you. Keep in mind that these tests only determine which classes you needed to start with.
There is no need to study for these tests. The Academic Assessment centers have material that can be given to you which can help you become familiar with the test, but you will not need to memorize facts. The Academic Assessment center is looking for your overall level of reading comprehension and usage of the English language. The center has math problem packets that can be used to brush up on your skills, but don’t worry about learning a new level or concept. The thing to do is to take the test carefully and do your best and let the test determine which areas you need to work on. Remember, classes are available no matter what your skill level is.
Basic skills assessment testing is free of charge. However, in some circumstances you may take the test a second time. At the time of the second session there is a $20 fee. You can use the calculator on the computer for math tests.
| In order to view any PDF documents linked on this page, you will need to have Adobe Acrobat Reader installed on your computer. |  |
The following links are to Sample Test Questions which can be downloaded and printed utilizing Adobe Acrobat Reader:
