A Description of the COMPASS Mathematics Test
COMPASS Math is an untimed, multiple-choice, computer-based test designed to measure students' knowledge of a number of topics in mathematics. The test draws questions from four sections: numerical skills/pre-algebra, algebra, college algebra, and trigonometry. Numerical skills/pre-algebra questions range from basic math concepts and skills (integers, fractions, and decimals) to the knowledge and skills that are required in an entry-level algebra course (absolute values, percentages, and exponents). The algebra items are questions from elementary and intermediate algebra (equations, polynomials, formula manipulations, and algebraic expressions). The college algebra section includes questions that measure skills required to perform operations with functions, exponents, matrices, and factorials. The trigonometry section addresses topics such as trigonometric functions and identities, right-triangle trigonometry, and graphs of trigonometric functions. No two tests are the same; questions are assigned semi-randomly from the four sections, adapting to your test-taking experience.
Placement into CUNY's required basic math courses is based on results of the numerical skills/pre-algebra and algebra sections. The test covers progressively advanced topics with placement into more advanced mathematics or mathematics-related courses based on results of the last three sections of the test.
Students are not permitted to use calculators while taking the test.
Below are some sample tests and websites containing more samples and information about the COMPASS test and related materials. Special software may be needed to view some of these files; check under our Software section to get them.
| ACT sample test #1 | pre-algebra | |
| ACT sample test #2 | algebra | |
| ACT sample test #3 | college algebra | |
| ACT sample test #4 | trigonometry | |
| Hostos Community College online tutorials and diagnostic tests | pre-algebra, algebra | web-based Flash |
| Pearson Education sample test | pre-algebra, algebra | web-based; do not input any personal information, just click "Start Test" to begin |
| Kentucky Early Math Testing Program practice exams | pre-algebra, algebra, college algebra, trigonometry | web-based |
| Georgia Highlands College COMPASS practice tests and slideshow lessons | pre-algebra, algebra | ignore calculator advice, as CUNY does not allow calculators on the COMPASS test; Microsoft Word and PowerPoint |
| Chippewa Valley Technical College sample tests with explanations | pre-algebra, algebra | |
| Bellevue Community College sample problems with percentage breakdowns of problem types | pre-algebra, algebra, college algebra, trigonometry |
Last modified February 22, 2008