Testing Center
Testing Center Visit the Testing Center online to learn about hours of operations, contacts, resources, and other information essential to your testing needs.
Placement Testing FAQ
What is the difference between the ASSET exam and the COMPASS exam?
| ASSET exam | COMPASS exam |
Format | Paper/Pencil | Computer Based |
Length of exam | 4 hours with instructions | Untimed, self-paced. Most students take 3.5 to 4 hours to complete the exam. |
Time per section | - Reading: 25 minutes
- Writing: 25 minutes
- Essay: 75 minutes
- Math: 25 minutes (Elementary Algebra)
| Each section is self-paced. Students will be assessed in Reading, Math, and Writing skills, and an Essay. |
When do I receive my scores? | 3 to 4 weeks, average | Immediately after exam is completed. |
How much is the exam?
Both exams are offered free of charge to students testing for dual credit purposes. If a high school student takes the exam for college credit only, the cost is $29.00 per complete exam, or $10 per section if retesting. Students can pick up a test ticket from their high school guidance counselor if they choose to test at Lone Star College–Montgomery in our testing center.
Do I need an appointment to take the exam? When is the testing center open?
No appointment is needed. Hours of operations and check-in times are:
Times for All Test Sections/First time test:
Monday - Thursday: 8am - 8pm, must check in before 4pm
Friday: 8am - 5pm, must check in before 1pm
Times for Single Section Retest - 2 sections max:
Monday - Thursday: 8am - 8pm, must check in before 7pm
Friday: 8am - 5pm, must check in before 4pm
Saturday: 10am - 2pm, check in before 1pm
Sunday (beginning Aug 26): 1pm - 5pm, check in before 4pm
Where is the testing center located?
The testing center is in Building C, Room 208 at Lone Star College–Montgomery. Lone Star College–Montgomery can be found at 1-45 and College Park Drive (242) in The Woodlands. Click here for a map and driving directions.
What do I need to bring to the exam?
Students taking the exam should bring a photo ID and their test ticket (found on the back of this sheet). For the math portions of the exam, students are allowed to use a TI-83 or TI-85 calculator. Students must provide their own calculator or a basic 4-function calculator will be provided.
I'm not happy with my scores. Can I retest?
Students must wait 30 days before retesting in the same exam. For example, if a student wants to retest in Reading but recently took the COMPASS, they have two options:
- Take the ASSET Reading exam or
- Wait 30 days and take the COMPASS again.
How can I reach the testing center if I have additional questions?
What TAKS, ACT or SAT scores will exempt me from taking a placement exam?
Some test scores will exempt you from taking the placement exam.
>To see what these are, please take a look at the guidelines. Please consult with your guidance counselor to determine whether or not a placement exam is necessary.
I have a documented disability. Can I receive special accommodations when testing?
Students with documented disabilities may qualify for special testing accommodations. Contact the ADA counselor, Victoria Saunders, at least two weeks prior to testing for a determination of your testing needs. She can be reached at (936)273-7239.
Don't see your question?
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