COMPASS/English as a Second Language (ESL) Test

COMPASS is a computerized placement test design to assess the student's level of preparedness in reading, writing and mathematics. There is no charge for the COMPASS Exam.

The COMPASS test is administered continuously throughout the semester. Make plans to come in and test at your convenience during these times and avoid the rush at registration.

Testing days and times:

Monday - Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (Every other Monday at the Macon Cove Campus)
Friday, 8:30 a.m. - noon

Note: Every Tuesday at the Union Avenue Campus and every Wednesday at the Macon Cove Campus, the test will be administered from 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. by appointment only. (You must be checked in and seated by 4 p.m. in order to test on these dates.)

There is no time limit on the COMPASS test. The average person will complete the entire test (reading, writing and math) in 1 to 2 hours.

What you'll need in order to test:

Complete an application for admission ($10 fee) in the Admissions and Records office.
Two forms of identification (one must be a photo ID such as a drivers license, state ID, military ID, etc.)

Students who must take the COMPASS/ESL test are:

First-time college "degree seeking" students 21 years of age or older must take the entire test.
Non-degree students who want to take English and/or math and who have not received credit in English composition and or college algebra will be required to test in the appropriate area.
College transfer students 21 years of age or older who have not received credit in English composition and college algebra from a regionally accredited college or university will be required to test in the appropriate area.

The COMPASS/ESL test is designed to help you enroll in appropriate courses, based on your academic background. The results will determine whether developmental coursework is necessary prior to entering degree-bound courses.

To learn more about the COMPASS test and view sample questions visit the COMPASS for Students website.

For additional examination/test information contact the Testing Center at (901) 333-4170 [Macon Cove Campus] / (901) 333-5127 [Union Avenue Campus] or by e-mail at testing@southwest.tn.edu.