Things you should know about the COMPASS exam

The COMPASS exam is a math placement exam required for all incoming Chemistry majors.

Enrollment in Math courses at ISU requires one of the following:

• Completion of college prerequisite courses with C or better.
• ACT MATH scores of 27 or higher for MAT 119, 108 or 144.
• Completion of the COMPASS Math Placement Exam. Contact the University Testing Office 438-2100, Fell Hall 346 to schedule an appointment. Some times and dates math placement testing may not be available.

Tips for Preparing for the Exam

Students needing placement from the COMPASS Math Placement Exam often come to the exam tired and unprepared, resulting in scores which keep them out of math courses which they will need. Prepare for this exam with adequate rest, hydration and fuel. The exam is untimed, so don't rush. Answer each question to the best of your ability; the next question type and level is based on the previous questions' responses. If you believe that you are ready for pre-calculus, be sure to make a quick review of concepts including trigonometry, analytical geometry (curve shape and equations) and multiple-variable algebraic equations.