Bakersfield College, like all colleges, tests students in reading, math and writing in order to place them in the class where they are most likely to succeed. These assessments or tests are online and if students practice BEFORE they take the tests they can significantly improve their scores and get placed into a higher level class.
The set of tests called COMPASS are not timed but there are some tips to doing well on these tests. You will have 4 hours to take the test, but most students complete the tests in 2 hours.
You will at first be asked easy questions that will get more and more difficult. If you answer several questions incorrectly, the computer assumes that that is your level and the test will stop.
COMPASS is a computerized adaptive test that measures skills and comprehension levels in the areas of reading, writing, and mathematics to determine readiness for college-level courses in these areas. By obtaining the required COMPASS program score, students are eligible to register in college level courses. Scoring below the required score on the placement test means that the student may lack prerequisite knowledge or skill and needs remediation in that area.
The student is given one or more passages to read, and then answers questions about the passage.
The student is presented with an essay and asked to look for errors in grammar, punctuation, usage, and style.
The student solves problems which measure numerical, pre-algebra, and algebra skills. Some of the areas included are:
Students whose first language is not English should take this version. This new online version simplifies the process for ESL students and the tests are user friendly.
Below are a set of sample tests: