How to Read Placement Scores for Algebra

While there are hundreds of placement tests for students, two of the most widely-used placement tests are the Computerized Placement Test and the COMPASS test. Colleges use these tests to determine whether new college students are ready for college-level classes or are in need of a semester of remedial courses. Not all students are required to take the CPT or COMPASS, only those that do not take the ACT or SAT tests, or students that are enrolling in college after a break from high school. In addition, not all students are required to take the entire CPT or COMPASS, some are only required to take certain portions of the test, such as the algebra portion. Once you take the algebra portion of the CPT or COMPASS, you need to know how to interpret your scores.

Instructions

  1. CPT Scores

    • 1

      Take the CPT in a proctored setting on any college campus. Once you submit your test, your scores immediately appear on your computer screen.

    • 2

      Read your algebra placement test score and compare it to the placement test score chart to see where you stand regarding the math classes you will take when you begin college.

    • 3

      Check your scores. If your algebra score is 50 or below you must take two semesters of college-preparatory math courses. If your score is 51 to 75 you must take one semester of college-prep math. If you score 76 or higher on the algebra placement test you are not required to take college-prep math courses.

    COMPASS Scores

    • 4

      Take the COMPASS test in a proctored setting at any educational facility. Take your time with the test; doing poorly on the test requires taking preparatory classes, which means it will take longer to graduate.

    • 5

      Locate your score on the algebra portion of the test and use it to figure out how you did on the COMPASS test by comparing it to the COMPASS score chart.

    • 6

      Check to see if your score falls between zero and 32; any score in between requires two semesters of college preparatory algebra classes. Scores from 33 to 44 require one semester of preparatory math and scores 45 to 100 require no preparatory math classes.

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