Placement Testing - FAQ

Q:  Do I need a placement test?
A: All new incoming and most transfer students are required to take the COMPASS Mathematics Test. Based on our review of a student’s ACT or SAT score, he/she will be required to take the Composition Placement Test and/or the COMPASS Reading Test. Students with a foreign language requirement may elect to take the Foreign Language Placement Test to try to fulfill the requirement or to place into an intermediate level course.
Q:  Do I need to study? How can I review?
A:  Familiarizing yourself with the information that will be covered in the placement tests is always helpful. Sample questions for the Math and Reading tests can be found at www.act.org/compass/sample. The Composition test is a forty minute written essay; there is no sample information provided for this exam.
Q:  How long do the tests take?
A:  We recommend that you plan on taking one hour for each test that you require. For example, if you require the Composition, Reading and Math tests, you should plan on spending approximately three hours testing. However, because the COMPASS® Math and Reading tests are un-timed, we have found many students complete their test requirements in about 2 hours.
Q:  Do the tests cost anything?
A:  There is currently no fee to take the initial placement tests. However, math retests are occasionally permitted. Students who qualify for a retest are subject to a $15 retest fee. Please remember to take these tests seriously.
Q:  Do I need them before I start school?
A:  Yes, you should complete your placement tests prior to seeing an advisor and registering for courses at YSU. Incoming students receive notification of placement testing in their SOAR packets. You are encouraged to complete the required placement tests prior to your assigned Student Orientation and Registration (SOAR) date.
Transfer students should schedule their placement exams after consulting their advisor and complete their testing requirements prior to their initial registration at YSU. We recommend that students schedule their tests as early as possible so that they are free to schedule necessary Composition, Reading and Math courses.
**Students are required to complete their placement exams prior to the end of their first semester at YSU.
Q:  How do I sign up to take the test?
A:  New incoming students receive notification of placement testing following their admission to YSU. Available sessions are listed within the notification. Current students and transfer students should contact the office at 330-941-1343/1344 to schedule a placement test.
Q:  Can I take classes without them?
A:  We strongly discourage you from registering without completing your testing requirements. However, if you have not been able to schedule your exams, you may register for limited coursework. Keep in mind that placement tests are designed to help accurately place you into the courses best suited to your skill levels. Many classes you will encounter at YSU require the skills on which you will be tested. Furthermore, you will not be permitted to register for REQUIRED Composition, Reading and Math courses without first taking the placement tests.
Q:  Can I use Placement Test scores from another college?
A:  This decision is made on a case-by-case basis. Potentially accepted scores are from other Universities who also proctor the COMPASS® Math and Reading tests. These scores must be sent on an official document via mail or fax to our office.
Placement scores from tests other than COMPASS® Math and Reading tests can not be accepted.
Q:  Do I need to bring anything for the test?
A:  Please bring two #2 pencils, a current Photo I. D. and any confirmation paperwork you received. Students taking the COMPASS® math test may bring an approved calculator (www.act.org/compass/sample/calc.htm)
Q:  How do I find out my scores?
A:  In many cases, students will receive their math and reading scores before they leave the testing area. Composition scores take a little longer to be processed, but if you have any questions regarding your placements, please see your advisor.