Student Skills Assessment & Placement Policy

Assessment in English, math and reading will be required of students whose corresponding subject area ACT score falls below 18*. Course placement will be mandatory as determined by the assessment results. In addition, placement into college-level classes will be restricted if the reading assessment indicates a student is reading below college level. This policy applies to the following students:

• First time degree-seeking students
• Transfer students from outside the Ky. Community & Technical College System
• Visiting students (students from an institution outside KCTCS who are attending HCC for one semester)
• Non-degree seeking students who want to enroll in an English or math class

*Additional requirements may apply to math.

Note: Previously enrolled students who want to enroll in an English or math class and whose corresponding ACT score falls below 18 are required to take the corresponding assessment to determine course placement in conjunction with course prerequisites.

COMPASS Skills Assessment

COMPASS is provided as a service to you to assess your skills in reading, math, and English. You neither pass nor fail. Results of your work on COMPASS, however, will determine the courses in which you enroll.

COMPASS is not timed but allow approximately two (2) hours to take all three subject areas on the computer. Additional time is necessary upon completion to discuss your results.

Reviewing for COMPASS

Reviewing for COMPASS is strongly recommended. Chart Your Success on the COMPASS is a study guide available at the college's library circulation desk.

Also...

COMPASS is administered on an appointment basis.

COMPASS appointments are scheduled by calling 270-831-9772 after receiving your acceptance letter and following the steps to enrollment.

Bring a photo ID to your assessment appointment.

The initial COMPASS skills assessment is free of charge. COMPASS can only be taken one time per semester; a $20 fee is charged at the time of retesting.

An on-screen calculator is provided in the math section of COMPASS, but you may bring your own calculator. Four-function, scientific, or graphing calculators are acceptable. Models such as CFX-9970G, TI-89, and TI-92 are NOT permitted. Scratch paper is provided, as well.

Pre-registration Sessions

All first-time degree-seeking students are required to attend an Pre-enrollment Session. During your session, you will receive information on admissions, financial aid, academic plans/majors, COMPASS , placement policies, and success in college.