Your success at Kirtland is so important that we make sure you’re not in over your head. In order to do that, we have to be sure you possess basic skills in English, reading, and math.
Our testing process will give you a foundation for a great college experience.
Placement testing is important because it determines your placement in the following general education categories:
- Math
- Reading
- English
- Writing
The best part about Kirtland’s placement testing is the way the computerized testing program is designed. It advances quickly or more slowly and adapts to your skill level while you are taking it.
The placement test is multiple-choice and staff members will be there if you need them.
So, relax. Leave any test anxiety you may have at the door. When you’re done, you will be ready for success at Kirtland.
You must show your drivers license.

Placement Testing Dates & Times
*Please report directly to the Testing Center for placement testing. The Testing Center is
located in the Administration Building on main campus in room 248*
Summer/Fall 2013
April 29 – May 6
Check-in times: 8 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
May 8, 9, 13, 16
Check-in times: 8 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
May 20 – June 4
Check-in times: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
June 10 – July 11
Check-in times: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
July 16
Check-in times: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
July 18 – August 5
Check-in times: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
August 26 – December 13
Check-in times: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
PLEASE NOTE: The Testing Center will be closed on Fridays except during OAR registration
days. The Testing Center will also be closed on the following dates: May 27, July 4-5, September 2-3,
and November 27-29.
Additional Placement Testing Sites:
- MTEC at Kirtland Gaylord – 60 Livingston Blvd. Gaylord. Phone: (989) 705-3600. Placement testing available by appointment only.
- Iosco Regional Educational Service Agency – 27 N. Rempert Rd. Tawas City. Phone: (989) 362-3006. Placement testing available by appointment only.
- Standish-Sterling Central High School – 2401 Grove St. Standish. Phone: (989) 846-3660 Placement testing available by appointment only.
Allow approximately 2-1/2 hours for placement testing.
Practice tests are available online at: www.act.org/compass/sample
More About Placement Testing
Kirtland Community College recognizes the importance of students possessing certain basic skills in English, reading, and mathematics. Since these skills are vital to each student’s successful completion of college-level course work, demonstrated proficiencies in English, reading, and mathematics (based on assessment test scores or completion of recommended classes) are required.
Placement testing is required of all students attending Kirtland Community College except those students transferring from another college or university who have completed English and mathematics. Acceptable ways of demonstrating one or more of the basic skills proficiencies would include:
- ACT test results within the last four years. These results can be presented in person or mailed to the admissions office.
- Test results from the Advanced Placement Program, CLEP, or DSST. Official transcripts must be sent to the admissions office. An application must be on file for a credit evaluation to be completed.
- Transfer credit in English and mathematics (“C” grade or better) from another college or university. Official transcripts must be sent to the admissions office. An application must be on file for a credit evaluation to be completed.
- Test results from the Kirtland placement tests.
- “Personal Interest” students may take developmental education courses, business seminars, and studio art courses and/or one vocational-technical course without being required to test for such placements
What to do
Placement testing is now being done using COMPASS software. Testing takes place in Room 248 in the Administration Building. Students need to check in at the Office of Admissions before going to the Testing Center. No appointment is necessary. Students should call (989) 275-5000, extension 284 for information and times and dates. Some evening hours are available. Students planning to test during the evening hours should contact the Office of Admissions at (989) 275-5000, extension 284 before 4:30pm to make the necessary arrangements. Testing takes approximately 1-1/2 to 2 hours to complete. To view sample questions, go to www.act.org/compass/sample.

