The City Colleges of Chicago uses the computer-adaptive college placement test, also referred to as COMPASS, to evaluate new students' proficiency levels. The test evaluates skill levels in reading, writing, math and ESL to ensure students are placed in the appropriate class level.
The computer-based test takes about two to three hours to complete. The writing section of the test has a 60-minute time limit, but the math and reading sections are not timed.
As of October 2010, the City Colleges of Chicago have seven colleges: Daley College, Harold Washington, Kennedy-King College, Malcolm X College, Olive-Harvey College, Truman College and Wilbur Wright College. Each college offers the COMPASS on campus at different times (see resources). Contact your prospective college for test times.