COMPASS/English as a Second Language (ESL) Test
One government issue photo ID is required for all testing.
Note: An Online Admissions Application must be submitted five (5) business days prior to testing.
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® test.
The COMPASS® test is administered continuously throughout the semester. While you may wish to schedule a specific time to take the COMPASS® test to ensure a seat, Southwest does accept walk in testing for COMPASS® on a first come, first available basis.
| Day | Macon Cove Campus | Union Avenue Campus |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. (every other Monday) | 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. |
| Tuesday | 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. | 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. |
| Wednesday | 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. | 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. |
| Thursday | 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. | 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. |
| Friday | 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. | 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. |
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.
There is no time limit on the COMPASS® test. The average person will complete the entire test (reading, writing and math) in one (1) to two (2) hours.
Students who must take the COMPASS®/ESL test are:
- First-time Southwest students 21 years of age or older
- Non-degree students who have not received a "C" or better in college level English Composition and or College Algebra
- Transfer and Summer Visiting Students who have not earned a "C" or better in English Composition and College Algebra from a regionally accredited college or university.
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].
