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Comprehensive Graduate Exam: Questions and Answers
Who is required to take comps?
All graduate candidates must pass an examination over the contect of their master's coursework.
Who is responsible for making sure application is made to take the exam?
The candidate is responsible for making application to sit for the comprehensive examination by obtaining a Comprehensive Examination Application Form.
To whom is the comp application sent?
Submit to Dr. Vi Alexander at valexander@sfasu.edu or deliver it to the Elementary Education office (3rd Floor McKibben Building). It can also be mailed to: Dr. Vi Alexander, SFASU, Box 13017 - SFA Station, Nacogdoches, TX 75962
When are comps scheduled?
The comprehensive examination is given during the candidate's last semester in the program. The comprehensive examination is scheduled within the first ten (10) weeks of each long semester and during the summer session. Scheduling of the exam and any retakes of it are done in accordance with the University's deadline for application for graduation in the semester.
If the comp grade is unsatisfactory, can I retake the exam?
The exam can be taken no more than three times. If a candidate fails to attain a satisfactory score on the comprehensive exam after three attempts, the candidate will not be eligible to graduate with the master's degree in Reading Specialist from SFASU.
How long does it take to complete the exam?
The exam normally takes about three and one-half hours to complete.
What materials do I need to bring to the exam?
Your answers to the exam questions will be computer generated. You will need to bring a disk on which to copy your answers. You will print and submit a hardcopy of the answers as well as the disk copy. Although you may bring a dictionary, textbooks and notes may not be used. You will need to bring a picture ID.
Do I have to be registered at SFA to take the exam?
Candidates taking the comprehensive examination the first time must be registered for at least one semester of coursework at the time of the administration of examination. Retake of the examination does not require registration.
When will I receive my grade?
The exam is graded by a committee of evaluators. Since it is routed from one to the other, it takes at least two weeks and in some cases up to 4 weeks depending upon the number and availability of the evaluators.
What happens if I am late for the exam?
The exam is scheduled for three and one-half hours. If you are late, you will lose valuable test-taking time. The exam must be taken on the day the comp is scheduled and during the time allowed for the exam.