Math Placement Testing at UDM

Important Testing Information for the Math Placement Test

Mathematics Placement

UDM administers the COMPASS® math placement test.  The results of this test are used to place you into the appropriate math class, one that is neither too hard nor too easy for your skill level.  The test is administered on a computer, and is not timed.  You may use any four-function, scientific, or graphing calculator on any COMPASS® mathematics test, except as specified below, but you must bring your own.  Scrap paper and a pencil will be provided to you. 

STRONG RECOMMENDATION: Prior to coming to SOAR, reviewing the math you have had in high school and the sample questions provided on the COMPASS® website may lead to a better representation of your math skills and the most appropriate math placement.

What is on the Placement Test?

The test covers numerical skills/pre-algebra, algebra, college algebra, geometry, and trigonometry.  Multiple-choice items in each of the five mathematics placement areas test the following:

• basic skills—performing a sequence of basic operations
• application—applying sequences of basic operations to novel settings or in complex ways
• analysis—demonstrating conceptual understanding of principles and relationships in mathematical operations

Guidelines for Calculator Use

The following types of calculators are NOT permitted:

• pocket organizers, handheld or laptop computers, or cell phones
• electronic writing pads or pen-input devices
• models with a QWERTY (typewriter) keypad.
• models with built-in capability to simplify algebraic expressions, multiply polynomials, or factor polynomials (often called Computer Algebra Systems), for example, CFX-9970G, TI-89, and TI-92

View Sample Test Questions Online

For numerical skills/pre-algebra, algebra, college algebra: http://www.act.org/compass/sample/pdf/numerical.pdf

For geometry and trigonometry:
http://www.act.org/compass/sample/pdf/geometry.pdf