College of San Mateo Placement Tests

• ACCUPLACER (Computerized Placement Tests) (The College Board)
• CPTS (Companion to the Computerized Placement Tests) (The College Board)
• COMPASS Mathematics Placement Test - Internet Version (ACT)
• COMPASS English as a Second Language (ESL) Placement Test - Internet Version (Listening, Reading, Grammar/Usage) (ACT)

Sample Placement Tests

English  -

• Sample Test - English
  
  
• Are you a Non-native English speaker?
  Which test should you take?
  
  
• COMPASS ESL Placement Test Sample Items
  
  
  

Mathematics  -

• COMPASS Math Placement Test Sample Items

• Additional Sample Test Questions - Pre-Algebra & Algebra
  
  
• Additional Sample Test Questions - College Algebra & Trigonometry
  
  

Interpreting placement test results

Placement tests are intended to measure skills which research have shown to be closely related to academic success. In combination with other measures, test results represent student strengths and capabilities as measured by these tests. While no placement test score by itself can exclude a student from enrolling in any particular course, these tests provide one of the most effective means for measuring a student’s knowledge of English, reading, and mathematics. Students are advised to discuss their placement results with a counselor/advisor so that, in combination with other relevant information (e.g., previous academic record), they can assist them to develop an educational plan.