Assessment Center Placement Test Guide

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TESTING TIPS

RELAX! Parkland's assessment testing is designed to help you succeed in college by placing you in those reading, English, and math courses that most closely match your skill level.

Arrive rested. If possible, schedule your tests on a day and at a time when you will not be tired, stressed, or rushed. (At least, not any more than usual.)

Arrive ten minutes early. Give yourself time to find us, gather your thoughts, and focus on the task ahead.

Remember to bring a photo ID. No ID, no test!

If you have questions about procedures or test directions, ask. We will be there to answer your questions during the entire testing session.

Read each question carefully. Make sure you understand what you are being asked. The tests are untimed so you can work at your own pace.

Retest options are available if you believe your test results do not match your skill level. However, it is important to do your best the first time. It can save you time, money, and extra trips to Parkland.

Placement Test Preparation Guide

Sample test items for the COMPASS tests in reading, English, and math are available on the ACT website.

A study guide for the math placement test is available from the Mathematics Department.

View ESL placement test sample questions here.

Disability accommodations
If you have a disability for which you require testing accommodations, call 217/351-2588 or go to Disabilities Services (X148).

To make an appointment for your placement testing, call 217/351-2432 or stop by the Assessment Center (A-209).

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I have to take placement tests?
All new degree-seeking students are assessed in reading, writing, and mathematics. Your assessment results will be used to place you in appropriate courses.
How will I know what test(s) to take?
Call us at 217/351-2432 to make an appointment. We will determine which tests you will need to take based on the information you provided during the application process. If you do not have previous college credit or appropriate ACT or SAT scores, you can expect to take tests in reading, writing, and math.
How long will the tests take?
The reading, English, and math tests are not timed, but most people spend approximately one hour on each test. If you are taking all three tests, plan on spending 1-1⁄2 to 3 hours to complete all of them.
What are the tests like?
All tests are untimed. You can work at your own pace; on these tests accuracy is more important than speed. Tests are given on the computer supported by an assessment program called COMPASS. ACT developed COMPASS to evaluate your skill levels in reading, writing, and math. COMPASS uses computer technology that adjusts the difficulty of the questions to your skill level depending upon how you answer the questions. COMPASS also asks questions about you, your educational background, academic and career plans, and what assistance you think you might need. This information will help our counselors and advisors get to know you better so they can help you be successful and meet your goals.
Will I need computer skills for COMPASS?
COMPASS was designed for individuals with little or no computer experience. You will use a few keyboard keys to select or highlight your answers. You will have time to practice using those keys before testing begins. If you want it, there is a tutorial on how to use a computer mouse that you can take before your test begins. The Assessment Center staff is always available to answer any questions you may have about how to use the computer.
Should I review for the assessment tests?
YES! The guide presents an overview of the material covered on each of the tests and provides sample questions to give you an idea about the type of questions that you will be asked. Reviewing course work in a specific area will help refresh your memory about the material. For example, it is helpful to review the math skills you learned in the last math class you took. Remember that the results of the placement tests determine which courses you can take, so it's important to do your best.
What if I fail the placement exams?
YOU CANNOT FAIL A PLACEMENT TEST! The results simply indicate which courses in Parkland's sequence of courses you should enroll in, based on your academic strengths in relation to college-level work. If the results show that you need help preparing for college-level work, you will be placed in the appropriate course or courses for improving those skills.
What should I bring when I come to take my tests?
YOU MUST BRING CURRENT, VALID PHOTO IDENTIFICATION. Acceptable photo identification includes an official photo ID card issued by a school, employer, or city/state/government agency (such as a driver's license or passport) on which both your name and current photo appear. NO PHOTO IDENTIFICATION = NO TEST.
What should I NOT bring?
The Assessment Center provides all the test materials you will need, including a calculator that can be used on the math test. Nothing you bring can go into the testing room. We will provide you with a locker where you can leave your things, including pagers, cell phones, any electronic device, electronic or printed dictionaries, food, and drinks. Children are not permitted in the testing room, and Parkland College does not allow unattended children on campus. Please make appropriate arrangements.
When will I get my test results?
COMPASS placement test results are available almost immediately. You will be given a copy to go away with. Essay results are usually available within a couple of days. Please note that Federal law prohibits us from giving test results over the phone. You must come in person to A-209 with a photo ID to get your test results.

Parkland College • 2400 West Bradley Avenue • Champaign, IL 61821 • 217/351-2200 • 800/346-8089
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