The COMPASS test is a free, computerized placement test that evaluates a student's skills in writing, reading, and math to help determine appropriate course placement. The document provides information on where and when the test can be taken at various Technical College of the Lowcountry campuses, as well as details accepting SAT and ACT scores in lieu of the COMPASS under certain conditions. Study materials are available online and in the campus bookstore to help prepare for the COMPASS test.

1. COMPASSTESTING

2. What is the COMPASS test?
• The COMPASS is an untimed, computerized test that helps your college evaluate
your skills and place you into appropriate courses.
• The test is comprised of three sections:Writing, Reading, and Math
• As a new student, Admissions can tell you if a PlacementTest is required for your
program of study.
• If your program requires placement scores, you will need to have those prior to
meeting with your advisor.
• This is a FREE test, and can be no more than three times in a calendar year.

3. Do you accept SAT and ACT scores?
• If you have taken the SAT or ACT in the past 5 years, we will accept those
scores.
• A copy of your scores can be submitted to the Admissions office.
• To enter into College Level courses, the following scores are needed:
• ACT=English 28+, Reading 21+, Math 22+
• SAT=Writing 480+, Reading 480+, Math 440+

4. Where can I take the COMPASS?
• BeaufortCampusTesting Center
• 921 Ribaut Road, Beaufort, SC
• Building 1
• 843-470-8400
• Office Hours:M-TH 8-5:30/F 8-11:30
• Testing Hours: M-TH 8:30-11:30, 12:30-3:30,
Fridays by appointment only
• New River CampusTesting Center
• 100 CommunityCollege Drive, Bluffton
• Admissions office
• 843-470-6002
• By appointment
• Hampton CampusTesting Center
• 54Tech Circle,Varnville, SC
• 803-943-4262
• M-TH by appointment only

5. How can I prepare?
• Study materials and practice exams are available at www.tcl.edu/testing on
the right side of the screen.
• A COMPASS study guide is available for purchase in theTCL Bookstore
located in Building 12 of the Beaufort campus.

6. Testing Center Rules
• Students must present a photo ID prior to testing
• Food and drinks are not allowed in theTesting Center
• Cell phones are to be turned off when entering theTesting Center and stored in a locker.
• Children are not allowed to accompany students into the testing room and may not be left
unattended in the lobby or hallway.
• You must leave enough time to complete your test before theTesting Center closes.
• If you have a documented disability and need special accommodations for placement
testing, please contact: Rodney Adams, Dean of Students, at 843-525-8219.

7. Contact
• If you have any further questions regarding the COMPASS placement test,
please contact the Director of theTesting Center, Rhonda Cole, at 843-525-
8229.