The Testing Center at Montgomery College is located in the Extended Learning Center (ELC). It offers a variety of testing options for our students. Please select the appropriate link for test schedules:

COMPASS OR ASSET (THEA-Alternative)
The COMPASS and ASSET are designed to provide placement information, as well as meet TEXAS SUCCESS INITIATIVE (TSI) requirements for NHMCCD students. These are the preferred Assessment tests for course placement at Montgomery College.

• Compass and Asset serve as initial placement and can be used to retake any portions of the THEA test.
• The ASSET is a paper/pencil timed test consisting of three multiple choice sections: writing, reading, and math; each of which is 25 minutes in length. The essay portion allows 75 minutes to complete. All four areas are required for TSI purposes.
• The COMPASS is a computer based non-timed test consisting of three multiple choice sections: writing, reading, math, as well as an essay portion.
• The fee for a complete COMPASS and ASSET is $29, per section costs $10 each. Students must come to Advising in Building E to get a yellow test form from an advisor, and then make payment in the Business office prior to testing.

Quick-THEA

• Designed for students who need to schedule a THEA test on a day/time other than the statewide dates for THEA.
• Available to take in the Testing Center at a cost of $29. Students must see an advisor in Building E to submit payment for the Quick THEA exam.
• It is the same test format as the regular THEA: five hours is allowed for reading, writing (which includes an essay portion) and math.
• Quick-THEA can be used for first time test takers or as a retest for certain sections. The student may use the full five-hour allotment even though they may only be taking one section.
• Scores will be mailed to the student approximately three weeks following the test.

THEA

• Can be taken by any student who must meet TSI requirements (either initial testing or retest) to enroll in any Texas institution of higher education.
• Typically offered twice in each semester (times are scheduled by the state) at a cost of $29.
• Register by mailing the registration form included in the Test Registration Bulletin, which is available in Advising Center E104 or online at: www.thea.nesinc.com.
• Scores will be mailed to the student approximately three weeks following the test.

Academic Testing
The Testing Center provides the opportunity for students to take academic exams. These arrangements are made with the instructor. Special needs students who utilize the Testing Center for exams must first submit their accommodations form to the instructor. Some accommodations (such as a scribe, oral reader, etc.) may require arrangements made in advance. Students authorized to receive extended time must consult closing times of the Testing Center so that the exam can be completed within scheduled hours and within one sitting.