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COMPASS
Computer-Adaptive Placement Assessment and Support System

Test Description: This test offers placement and diagnostic testing in mathematics, reading, and writing.  COMPASS takes advantage of adaptive testing technology to measure students mathematics, reading, and writing skills and to report results immediately.  Drawing from a pool of more than 2,400 test items, the computer adaptive format adjusts the difficulty level to the skills of the individual student, eliminating items that are too easy or too difficult and that contribute little to the measurement.  It is given on computer and is approximately 2.5 hours in length.

Eligibility: This exam is offered to non-traditional students who have been out of high school at least three years and are seeking admission to the University. This exam is used to meet entrance requirements to the University and waive placement in remedial (0003) courses. Please contact the Office of Admissions if you have any questions.

The Reading section of this exam may also be used to waive reading remediation requirements for both traditional and non-traditional students.

There is no waiting period for retaking COMPASS and the assessment can be taken again if it is necessary.

Registration: You must register for the COMPASS test in the Testing Services office located in room 700 of Hotz Hall. If you are unable to come to our office to register, you may print the registration form and mail it to us at Testing Services, University of Arkansas, 700 Hotz Hall, Fayetteville, AR 72701. We must receive the fee for this exam along with the registration form by the deadline for the date you choose.

Test fees: The fee for this exam is $25.00, Late: $40.00

Test Preparation: Study Guides are availble at testprepreview.com and http://www.contemporarypublishing.com.

Score Reporting:    Scores are released to the Office of Admissions for admission and advising purposes at this University.  Individual score reports cannot be reported to or used for admission or placement at other institutions. Score reports will be available to the student immediately after completion of the test.  Individual scores will also be printed on the advising sheet that each student receives during orientation.

Calculator Restriction: Students may use any four-function, scientific, or graphing calculator on any COMPASS mathematics test, except as specified below.

To ensure fairness for all test takers, to avoid disturbances in the testing room, and to protect the security of the testing materials and process, the following types of calculators are not permitted:

• pocket organizers
• handheld or laptop computers
• electronic writing pads or pen-input devices
• models with a QWERTY (typewriter) keypad (although calculators with letters on the keys are permitted as long as the keys are not arranged in QWERTY format)
• models with built-in capability to simplify algebraic expressions, multiply polynomials, or factor polynomials (often called Computer Algebra Systems), for example, CFX-9970G, TI-89, and TI-92

The following types of calculators are permitted only if they are used as noted:

• models with paper tapes: The paper must be removed.
• models that make noise: The sound feature must be turned off.
• models that can communicate (transfer data or information) wirelessly with other calculators: The wireless transfer capability must be disabled by placing opaque material (such as masking tape) over the infrared data port.
• Models that have a power cord: No power cords are permitted. The electrical cord must be removed.

NOTE: ACT monitors new calculators as they become available. For the latest list of prohibited calculators, students and institutions should periodically refer back to their web site or call toll free 800/498-6481 for a recorded message.