Student Services

Testing Services

Placement Tests -- Summary

Choosing the courses that are right for you requires careful planning. The results of placement tests can help you make good choices. Therefore, to help you plan and be successful in your classes the College requires that you complete all placement tests before registering for classes.

What is the COMPASS Placement Test?

The placement tests that you will be taking is a computer based system named COMPASS (Computer Adaptive Placement Assessment and Support System) which is used to place you in classes that match your abilities.  You cannot fail the placement tests, they are used as a starting point.  These scores will place you in courses that will help you develop the necessary skills for success in future classes.

The COMPASS test is a series of tests that will measure a level of a student's reading, writing skills and math skills. 

Who must test?

All new students are expected to take the COMPASS assessment.  If you have a proficiency level of 1 or 2 on the high school MEAP/MME writing and reading tests will be exempt on Compass, or have an ACT Reading 19, English 19 or Math 20 score or higher this will exempt a student from taking the reading and writing and math assessment of the COMPASS.  (A copy of the ACT scores and MEAP/MME scores must be provided for your file).  Review material for COMPASS Testing

Tests are available to waive the following courses:

  • Chemistry Test - only if you plan to take Chemistry courses at MCC and took a year of high school Chemistry.
  • Computer Test - only if you plan to complete the A.S.A. Degree and need to validate computer foundational skills. 

What is the cost for testing?

Free.

Where is the Testing Center?

The Testing Center is located in Room 134. You may stop in or call (231) 777-0394 to schedule a time for taking the tests.

How long does it take to complete the tests? 

Plan on two (2) hours to complete the process.

What will I need to take the test?

  • The COMPASS is taken on the computer.  We provide pencils, scrap paper  and computer calculators.
  • Calculator policy:  We recommend using the COMPASS policy for calculators...see http://www.actstudent.org/faq/answers/calculator.html (TI-89 and TI-92 graphing calculators are not allowed).
  • You will need to bring your social security number (no testing without it)

How will I get my scores?

Immediately after you have finished taking the COMPASS Test you will receive a copy of your results.  Keep your test results for counselor usage and enrollment purposes.

Why is testing required?

The College adopted a placement testing policy to help students understand their abilities and choose courses wisely.  We are as concerned with your success in college as you are.  You should make an appointment with a counselor (231.777.0362) after testing for career planning and course selection. 

Hours:
Monday - Thursday 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.,  Friday: 8 a.m.- 4:30  p.m.  

No weekend testing

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY 

First  Appt. M-F: 8:30 a.m. 

Last  Appt.  M-Th: 5:00 p.m. 

Last  Appt. Fri. 2:00 p.m.

Phone: (231) 777-0394

Office: Room 134

  • Note: No children, food, drink, electronic communication devices or guests are allowed in the Testing Room. No Restroom Break allowed while testing.

Testing Center Guidelines for Faculty