Placement Testing

Sampson Community College administers the COMPASS Placement Test as a standard part of the admissions process. COMPASS is an untimed, computerized test that evaluates academic competency in three areas; reading, writing, and math. The test is designed to help place entering students in courses and programs that are appropriate to individual aptitudes and abilities. Because students achieve at varying proficiency levels, developmental courses may be required during the first one to two semesters of enrollment. Prospective students who have completed the COMPASS or other North Carolina Community College System approved entry assessment (ASSET or ACCUPLACER) within the past three years may have their official test scores sent to the SCC Admissions Office.

Test Waiver

Applicants who present proof of having met ONE of the following criteria may be exempted from taking the placement test:

• Completion of a college level Mathematics and English course with a grade of “C” or higher.
• Achieved a combined Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) score of approximately 920 (Critical Reading 480; Math 440) or higher. SAT scores over four years old are not accepted by the college.
• Achieved a composite American College Test (ACT) score of 19 (Verbal 19; Math 19) or higher. ACT scores over four years old are not accepted by the college.
• Graduation from an accredited institution with an associate degree or higher.

Disability Accommodations for Placement Testing

Students who have a documented disability or handicap that prevents them from taking the placement test under standard conditions may request reasonable accommodations. Requests for special arrangements or audio/visual implements should be presented to the Disability Services Coordinator at least two weeks prior to the date scheduled for testing.

Retest Policy

The college allows students to retake the COMPASS Placement Test one time within a semester. There is a two-week minimum waiting period between the initial attempt and any scheduled retest. The waiting period may be waived at the discretion of the Director of Admissions if extenuating circumstances warrant a retest. The following conditions apply to retesting:

• Students may elect to retake the entire COMPASS test or individual sections (reading, writing, or math) where college-level placement was not achieved. If the retest is for two sections, i.e. reading and math only, both tests must be completed during the same session.
• Only one attempt is allowed for each subject area. The highest scores earned in each section from the initial test and the retest will be used for placement.
• No second retest will be granted unless a documented technical failure such as a power outage interferes with the testing process.
• Students who have not been enrolled in any college classes for three years or more may request to retake the COMPASS placement test.