First Year Programs
Compass Test
About the Compass Test
This multipart test is designed to place students in the appropriate math course required by their majors.
The test lasts approximately one hour and focuses primarily on pre-algebra and algebra skills.
Students can neither pass nor fail this test. It is only used for placement purposes.
Follow the links below for details -- and information on practice tests.
How the Test Provided
- Testing will be online.
- The program provides a calculator.
- Pencil and paper can be used.
- Questions are multiple choice.
- The complexity of questions increases with submission of correct answers.
Compass Testing is scheduled during Sycamore Advantage. For more information, see "Scheduling & Re-Testing" below.
Pre-Algebra Topics
- Basic operations with integers
- Basic operations with fractions
- Basic operations with decimals
- Exponents
- Ratios and proportions
- Percentages
- Conversions between fractions and decimals
- Multiples and factors of integers (whole numbers)
- Absolute values of numbers
- Averages (arithmetic means)
- Order concepts (greater than; less than)
- Estimation skills
- Counting problems and simple probability
Algebra Topics
- Substituting values in algebraic equations
- Setting up equations for given situations
- Basic operations with polynomials
- Factoring polynomials
- Solving polynomial equations by factoring
- Formula manipulation
- Linear equations in one variable
- Exponents
- Linear inequalities in one variable
- Rational expressions
- Exponents
Compass Scoring
- Pre-algebra score will determine whether the student places into Math 010 or proceeds to the Algebra section of the test
- Algebra score will determine whether the student will place into Math 011; is referred to Math 011; is placed into Math 102; placed into Math 111; or is referred to an advisor for review of appropriate Math course selection.
- The student's advisor has discretion in Math placement; however, students are encouraged to communicate with their advisors and cite SAT/ACT scores for consideration of placement in a higher level Math course
Final Placement
Students must successfully complete the Math course they test in to as well as any Math course required for General Education or their choice of major. Math 010 and Math 011 are 3 credit hour courses that DO NOT COUNT TOWARD GRADUATION; however, they DO COUNT TOWARD FULL-TIME STATUS for the student's parents' health insurance and or financial aid determination.
Scheduling
& Re-Testing
Compass Testing is scheduled during Sycamore Advantage. After Sycamore Advantage, the Compass Test can be taken at the University Testing Office.
Practice Tests
To practice on questions similar to those on the Compass Test, go to the Math Center (Root Hall, Room A-019), and use the PLATO software for self-tutorial.
Or, follow the links (below) for practice tests (PDF format).
Practice Text | Answers
NOTE: The actual Compass Test will differ somewhat from practice tests.
Contact
For assistance, contact:
First Year Programs
Indiana State University
Erickson Hall 129
Terre Haute, Indiana 47809
fyp@indstate.edu
(812) 237-8639