Questions and Answers

Some of the most frequently asked questions:

Can I study before I take the College Placement Tests?
Refreshing skills that have been learned in the past may be helpful before taking the placement tests. It is not recommended that a student attempt to learn from scratch the skills necessary to pass a certain level on the test. The goal is to help the student be successful and to place the student in the appropriate class, not one where the student has crammed enough information to pass the test but doesn't really know the subject material.
How often can I take the College Placement Tests
At PCC, you can the College Placement Tests twice ONLY, and those scores will expire in 3 years. If in that time period, a student has not taken the classes they placed into, they must retest again. One test and one retest are allowed.
How soon will I get my test results?
Test results are given to the student immediately after the completion of the test. Testing Administrators will review your scores and placement information with you before you leave.
Does it cost money to take the COMPASS test?
There is no charge for taking the COMPASS test. However you must be admitted to the college. The admission fee is $25.00. If you are not planning to enroll in PCC, there is a $15.00 fee to take the COMPASS test.
What about students with disabilities?
Students with disabilities who may need special accommodations to take the COMPASS test should follow this procedure:
For basic accommodations (for those with testing anxiety or problems with timed tests):
PCC now only uses the COMPASS, which is not timed allowing enough time to reduce testing anxiety.
For more complex disability testing accommodations: (learning or physical challenges)
  • Make an appointment with the testing center for evaluation.
  • Bring documentation of your disability.
  • The district office will contact the testing site once they have given approval for the accommodations.
Examples of possible accommodations for complex disabilities are:
  • Providing a reader who will read the test to the student
  • Providing special equipment like a wheelchair table
  • Providing the test on tape being read aloud
Contact the Office of Disabilities at your specific campus for more information.
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