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Monday through Thursday 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Friday and Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Sunday CLOSED


In order to take the COMPASS Placement test you must have applied and received correspondence from the College letting you know you have been accepted.   

The COMPASS Placement test consists of three parts:  Writing, Mathematics and Reading.  The Testing Center provides a basic calculator for the Mathematics portion.  Testing is done on a walk-in basis an appointment is not necessary.  If you plan on taking the COMPASS Placement test, report 2-3 hours before closing.  Upon completion of testing you will be directed to see an advisor for an interpretation of results. 

No tests will be administered one hour prior to closing, and tests must be finished by closing time. A photo ID is required for testing.

What is COMPASS?

COMPASS is a computerized assessment in reading, writing, and math that is part of Columbus State's admissions and registration process. It helps to identify what classes you should schedule your first quarter. Our goal is to ensure that your classes are at the right level for you - not too easy and unchallenging and not so difficult that you would feel overwhelmed.  For more information, contact the Testing Center in Aquinas Hall, Room 002, (614) 287-2478.

Who Needs to Complete the COMPASS Assessment?

All students who plan to register for courses with reading, writing, or math prerequisites must complete the COMPASS assessment.

Exceptions:

IF ENGLISH IS NOT THE LANGUAGE IN WHICH YOU FIRST LEARNED TO READ AND WRITE, you will need to complete the English as a Second Language Placement Test and Orientation. Call the Admissions Office at (614) 287-2669 to make a reservation.

IF YOU HAVE TRANSFER CREDIT IN BOTH COLLEGE LEVEL ENGLISH AND MATH, please meet with an Advisor in Advising Services in  Aquinas Hall, Room 116 (614) 287-2668 for course selection and registration information.  You should contact all colleges you previously attended and have them forward an official copy of your transcript. 

IF YOU HAVE A DISABILITY AND NEED SPECIAL ASSISTANCE WITH TESTING, call Disability Services at (614) 287-2570 (V/TDD). Note: COMPASS is NOT a timed test.

Should I Review for the Test?

YES! Reviewing may enable you to bypass some courses and place into the highest level of courses in which you can be successful. This can also save you time and money.

COMPASS Assessment Sample Items

Note: Only the sample questions apply to the Testing Center.  Other information on the ACT site may not apply.

Resources for Math Review

When Should I Complete My COMPASS Assessment?

After you have applied to the college and received your acceptance letter. You don’t need an appointment, testing is walk-in basis only. A photo ID is required.

How Long Does the Assessment Take?

The assessment is not timed, so you can take as much time as you need.  Most students take about two hours to complete all three sections of the assessment.  Generally, you should allow about three hours to complete the entire process which includes testing, reviewing your test results, identifying appropriate first quarter courses with an advisor, and registering for classes (if registration is open for the quarter you want to begin).

When Will I Get My Results?

Once you have completed the COMPASS assessment and your scores are entered into the database. You will meet with an Advisor who will review your results and assist you with selecting your first quarter courses.

Can I Take The COMPASS Assessment At One Of The Off-Campus Centers?

YES!  COMPASS is available at the following off-campus centers (call for location and hours):
 

Dublin Center     614-761-2800

Westerville Center     614-287-7000 or 614-287-7020

 

Note:  Academic Advisors are not available at all locations.  Please contact Advising and Counseling Services (614-287-2668) on main campus for first quarter advising options.

Note:  DISTANCE LEARNERS who do not live in the Columbus area should contact the Testing Center (1-800-621-6407, ext. 3602 or 2478) for information on placement testing at an alternative location.

Do I Need Computer Skills?

You need only basic computer skills to complete this assessment.  It is a Windows-based program, so you will need to use a computer mouse.  The program is very user-friendly, but if you need assistance, staff is available to help.

Where Should I Park?

You should park in any of the STUDENT designated parking areas (campus map).  For a Temporary Parking pass, please go to Public Safety located in Union Hall 048.  Parking meters are also available.