ESL/COMPASS Exam
About the ESL/COMPASS Exam
- ESL/COMPASS is the version of the COMPASS placement test for students whose native language is not English.
- The ESL/COMPASS assesses basic skills in listening, grammar/usage, reading and math.
- Results are used to place students into appropriate English or ESL and math classes.
ESL/COMPASS FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
| Question |
Answer |
| How long will it take? |
The test is untimed. Most students take at least 3 hours to complete the test. |
| How will I know if I passed? |
There is no minimum score required for admission. |
| How much will it cost? |
See the current fee schedule. |
| How do I sign up for the test? |
No sign up is necessary. Come to RSB, room 76, during a scheduled session. See Testing Calendar. |
| What do I need to bring? |
Receipt from the Cashier showing payment of the fee and goverment-issued photo ID. Please leave your calculator at home. |
| When do I get the results? |
Immediately after the test. Results are also available at the Information Desk in the Registration Department. |
ESL/COMPASS Test Components
ESL Listening
- This test assesses a student's ability to understand spoken standard American English.
- Items range from recognizing pictures which match spoken words or phrases at the lowest levels to answering questions about academic materials at the highest levels.
- Students are allowed to take notes while they are listening.
- Sample questions (Questions are in a 5 page PDF document. Please read PDF Help if you have trouble opening the file.)
ESL Grammar/Usage
- This test assesses a student's ability to correct standard American English grammar in two main areas:
- Sentence Elements including verbs, subjects and objects, modifiers, function words, punctuation, capitalization and word formation.
- Sentence Structure and Syntax including word order, relationships between and among clauses, agreement.
- Some items in this test present blanks in sentences and choices to fill in the blanks. Other items offer a question with four options, based on a reading passage.
- Sample questions (Questions are in a 4 page PDF document. Please read PDF Help if you have trouble opening the file.)
ESL Reading
- This test assesses a student's ability to understand written standard American English.
- Students will read passages, ranging in length from several sentences to many paragraphs, followed by multiple choice questions testing their ability to understand and infer meaning.
- Items range from recognizing pictures that match words at the lowest levels to answering questions about academic materials at the highest levels.
- Students also may be asked to interpret photographs, tables, charts or graphs, or to follow directions using a map or other diagram.
- Sample questions (Questions are in a 5 page PDF document. Please read PDF Help if you have trouble opening the file.)
ESL Math
- ESL students currently take the Standard COMPASS math placement exam.
- See COMPASS for description and sample questions.
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