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Testing Center FAQs

Find answers to commonly-asked questions about LSC-Fairbanks Center's Testing Center.

Who can use the Testing Center?

The Testing Center is available to all students (full-time and part-time). The Testing Center is not equipped for children, so please make other arrangements for them. Examinees must present a photo ID.

What types of tests are available at the Testing Center?

The Testing Center offers several different types of student testing. These include LSC-Online, independent study, make-up exams, non-Lone Star College testing, THEA Quick Test, COMPASS, Accuplacer, COMPASS/ ESL, and Step-Forward ESL.  

Do I need an appointment to use the Testing Center?

Appointments are not required, however, students taking tests from non-Lone Star colleges should arrange a testing time with us. No appointment is necessary for other testing unless special accommodations are required. A photo ID is required and fees may apply.

Students must allow sufficient time to complete their test before the Testing Center closes.  No test will be started within one hour of the Testing Center closing time.

When do testing fees apply?

The COMPASS and Accuplacer tests each cost $29 for the full test, or $10 for a single subtest. Compass/ESL costs $24 or $8 for each subtest. The Quick THEA costs $29. All non-Lone Star College System testing requires a fee of $25 per test. This is payable at the Business Office on campus.  Payment maybe made by cash, check, money order, or credit card (American Express, Discover, Visa, MasterCard).  However, on Saturdays, and after 7:00 pm Monday through Thursday, fees must be paid in CASH only in the exact amount. Change cannot be provided. Please see the THEA Quick Test page for payment details for that test.

What is Step-Forward?

Step-Forward is a paper-based placement test used at the Fairbanks Center for ESOL students (English for Speakers of Other Languages). It is composed of 48 questions, and can be completed in approximately one hour. Course entry level is determined by the test and an interview with an advisor.

What are the COMPASS and Accuplacer tests?

COMPASS and Accuplacer are placement tests, measuring skills in reading, writing, and mathematics. A written essay is also included. The COMPASS and Accuplacer are computer based and are untimed.  The test scores are used to determine placement in your courses. They are also used as an alternative THEA test for students who have never taken the THEA.  Each test takes up to 4 hours to complete.

The COMPASS ESL test is an untimed, computer-based test designed for placement into ESOL courses. The entire test can generally be completed within 2 hours. 

When can I take the COMPASS and Accuplacer tests? 

COMPASS and Accuplacer can be taken on a walk-in basis. You must arrive at least 4 hours before closing time. Students need to first obtain a referral form from Admissions, which authorizes the Testing Center to give the test. A receipt from the Business Office obtained when you pay for your test should be written on the referral slip. Students must also bring a photo ID.

When will I get my scores?

You will get your scores immediately upon completion of the placement tests. However, your essay score may or may not be generated immediately. Your test scores will be explained further when you meet with an advisor.

The Quick THEA test is offered once per month, September through May, on a Friday beginning at 9:30 a.m. You must call the Testing Center first to make an appointment, as seating is limited.  The test takes 5 hours and ends at approximately 3 p.m. You will receive your scores in the mail from THEA within approximately two weeks.

Can the Fairbanks Testing Center proctor a test from another college or a correspondence course?

Yes.  The student makes all the arrangements with their college or university to have the test sent directly to the Testing Center. Send to Lone Star College-Fairbanks Testing Center, at 14955 Northwest Fwy, Houston, TX 77040. Tests can be e-mailed to Fairbanks.Testing@lonestar.edu.  Please call in advance to make sure the test has arrived in our Center before arriving to test. Photo identification is required with a fee of $25 per test, payable at the Business Office.  Note: Appointment preferred.

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