Testing Center

Placement Testing Q & A

What is the COMPASS Placement test?
A FREE COMPUTERIZED test for students who have submitted their application for admission and paid their application fee.

What is the purpose of the placement test?
To determine placement into Learning Support classes or exemption from Learning Support classes. The test must be taken BEFORE you can register for your classes.

What does the test cover?
Reading, writing (with grammar) and algebra. You are not required to write an essay.

When can I test?
The earlier the better! Several dates will be available for you to take the test. The longer you wait, the fewer choices you have. Always test early. Call 229-317-6735 after you’ve submitted your application and paid your application fee.

Can I test on a Saturday or evening?
There will be a few Saturday mornings and some evenings available. Most tests are scheduled during weekday mornings or afternoons. Schedule early for best choices. Call 229-317-6735 or 229-317-6954 after you submit your application for admission.

How long does the test last?
Average timing is about 2 ½ hours. The test is not timed. Personal times vary. You may require more time or less time than someone else.

Where do I take the placement test?
Upstairs in the Student Center (Building C). To find our building, park in the back (main) student parking lot. The Student Center is behind the red & black time/temperature sign. Come in the door located under the breezeway, across from the Bookstore. Go upstairs and look for a sign directing you to the testing room. Campus maps are at http://www.darton.edu/visitors/maps/maps.php. DO NOT BRING YOUR CELL PHONE. Always, always, arrive early.

What should I bring with me?
Your drivers license or other picture id. No other items are needed.

Where can I find study material?
Any review material on writing, grammar and algebra will be beneficial. For a list of websites, click here.

Where can I find sample questions?
Go to http://www.act.org/compass/sample/index.html and http://www.gsc.edu/humanities/mhorton/LSEnglish/compasspractice
/passage6/compass6.html.

If I don’t score well, can I test again?
That depends on when you test and on your score. For more information go to http://www.darton.edu/current/testing/retest.php.

Is everyone required to test?
Under certain conditions, some students may exempt placement testing. For information, click here.

What if I don’t know how to use a computer?
We are here to help you and guide you through the process.

Can I just skip the math test and enroll in Learning Support classes? I have a math phobia!
We understand. We really do. Placement testing determines the class in which you will begin your math learning. You will meet other students just like you. And, there is a lab staffed with personnel devoted to working with Learning Support math students.

I live very far away. Is testing available close to home?
We will help you find an accredited school in your area that you may contact for testing. Some schools charge a proctor fee to test applicants to other schools. Call us at 229-317-6735.

Is there anything else I should know?

• Test instructions can be previewed at ACT: COMPASS/ESL Practice Instructions.
• At testing and at registration, you will receive campus parking regulations. Pay attention to them; avoid a costly ticket.
• Read the Darton College catalog. Be informed.
• Darton is a tobacco free campus.

If I place into Learning Support classes, can I take college credit classes also?
Depending upon which Learning Support class(es) you place into, you may be able to take some college credit classes along with your Learning Support classes. At registration for classes, an advisor will work with you on this matter. REMEMBER, however, that if you drop your Learning Support class(es), you must also drop ALL college credit classes.

Can I take Learning Support classes online?
Learning Support classes are often offered online. An advisor will have specific information when you register for classes. View the latest .pdf class schedule.

Can I register immediately after taking the placement test?
After Admissions has received all of your records and test results, they can then complete the processing of your folder. This process may take days or weeks. Then, when early registration begins, you will be contacted for an advising appointment.

Exactly how early is early registration?
Mid-summer and mid-semester after currently enrolled students register for classes. You will be contacted if you qualify for early registration.

So, what are the advantages of registering early?
Scheduling. Scheduling. Scheduling. The earlier you register for classes, the more control you have over your class schedule.

Remember: Darton is a smoke-free campus.