Frequently Asked Questions

Usually. The placement test is used to decide which classes students need to start with, so almost everyone needs to take it. However, sometimes there are other factors that are considered. For instance, if you have attended another college and have transferred your transcripts of classes, or if you have Advanced Placement (AP) credit, this can affect your placements. Generally, if you have taken English 101 or higher at another college, you do not need to take the English test. If you have taken college-level Math (100 or higher) in the last 3 years, you probably do not need the Math test. However, there are exceptions and you should check with the Admissions Office.

Sometimes. Seattle Central will accept COMPASS (native speaker or ESL) or ASSET Test scores from other colleges if they are less than 3 years old. These are the only tests that are accepted. COMPASS and ASSET are very common entrance exams nationwide; however, every college can be different. You will need to check with your college to see what test was given. (Note: The University of Washington does not use these tests, and scores from UW are not accepted.)

You will need to request a copy of your scores be sent to Seattle Central. If you have sent transcripts, do not assume that any test scores you have will be on it. They usually must be requested separately. You can bring them in person to the Testing Office or have them sent by fax or mail. By FAX: (206) 903-3224. By MAIL: SCCC / Testing, 1701 Broadway, 2BE1145E, Seattle, WA, 98122.

Yes, as long as it is a COMPASS or ASSET Test. You can try checking local colleges to see if they give either of these tests, or you can visit the National College Testing Association's website at http://lorenzo.byu.edu/NCTA/Consortium/find.asp to find a Testing center near you. Not all colleges and universities belong to the NCTA, but that is often a reliable source. Please be aware that fees will vary, and will be the sole responsibility of the student.

These tests are usually for admission to four-year colleges or universities, rather than two-year community colleges. They are not needed for admission to Seattle Central, and are not accepted instead of an ASSET or COMPASS Test. The Testing Office usually carries informational packets about some or all of these tests for students interested in transferring to other colleges, and more information is available for the SAT at www.collegeboard.org, for the ACT at the www.act.org, and the TOEFL at www.ets.org.

Not necessarily. Each college determines its own score requirements for classes. Usually, the placements are roughly the same, but there may be some differences.

Maybe. For the other colleges in our District, South Seattle Community College uses the COMPASS Test for native speakers and ESL; North Seattle Community College uses the COMPASS Test for native speakers only. Scores for those tests can transfer there. However, every college chooses its own placement exam and has its own policies for accepting score transfers, so you would need to check with that college.

You can come in to get them in person or send a written request by fax or mail. If you come in person, you must show some form of Photo ID. If you request them by fax / mail, make sure it includes your name, Student ID# (or Social Security Number), signature, and the complete address / number where you want the scores sent. It is also a good idea to leave a number where you can be reached if there is a problem. Please note: requests cannot be taken by phone or by email. Also, all scores are deleted after 3 years.