Student Services

Course Placement Testing Information

Wilson Community College uses the COMPASS test, an untimed test you do on a computer. We also use the ASSET test, a timed paper and pencil test.

The purpose of placement tests is to place you in the correct course levels in English, reading, and math.
Tests cover basic skills in reading, correct written English grammar and writing style, general math, and sometimes algebra.
COMPASS is taken on the computer, and is untimed.
COMPASS can be completed in 2-3 hours or less.
ASSET is a paper and pencil test.
ASSET takes 25 minutes per test - usually about 2 hours for the entire test series.

COMPASS test are administered on this schedule:

ASSET tests are scheduled less frequently. Call 246-1230 for information.

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT

Call 246-1276 or 246-1281. If accommodations for disability services are required, please allow 2 weeks for special arrangements.
Testing is free. There is no fee for the tests and all materials are provided.
Bring a photo I.D. card such as a driver’s license.
Report to Student Services, room C-107, 10 minutes prior to your appointment and tell someone that you are here for placement testing.

READING requires you to identify ideas that different writers present in various short passages. Answers are picked from a suggested answer list (multiple choice).
MATH presents different math problems and may have some algebra. If your algebra skill is not strong, the computer will “know” and give you some easier math questions. The ASSET algebra test is separate from the basic math. The test administrator will determine if you need that part.
GRAMMAR (writing) The COMPASS test requires you to “edit” passages and make corrections in spelling, sentence structure, punctuation and word usage. On the ASSET test, you select correct answers from a multiple choice option.
COMPUTER PLACEMENT TEST presents questions related to basic computer literacy.

Be rested and not hurried.
Arrive early and allow time to eat before you come. No food or drink is allowed in the test center.
Preparation is not required; however, placement test review booklets are available in the Library.

The following procedures must be followed for admission to a curriculum program and must be completed before official acceptance is granted:

Submit a completed Application for Admission to the Office of Student Services (available at www.wilsoncc.edu or www.cfnc.org, and from the Office of Student Services, or local high school counselors);
Request an official transcript of all high school and post high school academic work be sent directly to the Office of Admissions.
Take the Placement Test. Applicants who have earned college level credit from a regionally accredited institution for math and English courses will be exempted from corresponding sections of placement testing provided a grade of C or better was achieved.
Depending on placement scores, undetermined major, or by request, some students will also meet with an admissions specialist or counselor.