Are you considering a career in aviation or looking to advance your pilot career? You’ve probably heard about the COMPASS™ system – a crucial assessment tool that can make or break your aviation journey. But what exactly is it, and why does it matter so much to flight training organizations and airlines worldwide?
The COMPASS™ system goes beyond just evaluating your technical abilities. It dives deep into your aptitudes, personality traits, and potential for success in the demanding world of aviation. Whether you’re a fresh candidate hoping to begin flight training or an experienced pilot aiming for career advancement, understanding this comprehensive assessment tool is essential for your success. In this blog post, we’ll explore the COMPASS™ system in brief.
The COMPASS™ (COMputerized Pilot Aptitude Screening System) is an advanced selection and screening tool specifically designed for the aviation industry. You’ll find this system widely used by Flight Training Organizations (FTOs) and airlines to identify candidates who possess the necessary skills for commercial aviation careers. COMPASS™ eliminates the traditional subjective evaluation methods by implementing standardized, computer-based tests that ensure all candidates are assessed on identical skill sets. COMPASS evaluates pilot competencies according to IATA guidelines through a comprehensive series of tests.
More than 250,000 COMPASS™ seletion tests have demonstrated a reduction in the failure rate for flight traning, leading to significant time and cost savings by minimizing the need for additional traning. When utilized in conjuctionn witha standardized simulator assessment, COMPASS™ can help bring the number of candidates failing their flight traning to nearly zero.
Types of COMPASS™ Assessments
A. Standard COMPASS™ for new candidates
If you’re an ab-initio pilot (one with no previous flying experience), you’ll encounter the Standard COMPASS™ assessment. This version includes the COMPASS – Basic coordination test, which evaluates your cognitive abilities and potential adaptability to pilot training. Many airlines and flight training schools use this test as part of their selection process for cadet programs. When you take this assessment, you’ll be evaluated on your capacity to handle training challenges before making significant financial and personal investments in your pilot career.
B. Advanced COMPASS™ for experienced pilots
For those of you who already have flying experience, the Advanced COMPASS™ assessment features the COMPASS – Coordination test. This version is specifically tailored to evaluate your existing skills and potential for adapting to new airline procedures. Various airlines utilize this assessment when selecting experienced pilots for positions, ensuring you have the cognitive capabilities to meet their specific operational standards.
C. COMPASS™ Personality Profile
The COMPASS™ Personality Profile (CPP) is a psychometric component of the assessment system that evaluates your personality traits relevant to pilot performance. This assessment helps determine how well you might fit into the aviation environment and predict your success in training. The profile examines various aspects of your personality that correlate with effective pilot behavior and decision-making capabilities.
What to Expect During Your COMPASS Test
When you arrive at the test center, ensure you bring a valid government ID (preferably a passport). The assessor will begin with a welcome briefing and guide you through the process.
Test Overview:
Duration: Approximately 2 hours
Modules: 6 total (Orientation, Control, Slalom, Task Manager, Mathematics, and Memory)
Practice Rounds: Each module includes explanations and 2 practice attempts before the actual test.
Time Limits: Some sections (e.g., Mathematics, Orientation) are timed. A yellow square on the screen will indicate this.
Important Notes:
✔ Read instructions carefully—once you click “NEXT,” you cannot go back.
✔ No keyboard use during explanations.
✔ Adjust the pedals and joystick for comfort before starting.
✔ If any issues arise, notify the assessor immediately—delays may prevent assistance later.
Provided Materials:
✔Blank paper (for math calculations)
✔Math reference table
✔Translation list (if applicable)
After COMPASS:
If only taking COMPASS, you’ll pause before the technical test (CPP).
CPP Test: 225 personality-based statements (45 minutes). Answer instinctively—don’t overthink!
Aviation English Test (if applicable): Assesses reading/listening skills. The assessor will brief you before starting.
Prepare thoroughly and stay focused during your test. For the latest updates and detailed information, contact Sudisha Aviation Consultants (SAC). Need quick answers? WhatsApp us at +977 9823756630 – we’re always happy to chat! 😊
Understanding Your COMPASS™ Test Results
Passing Requirements:
To succeed in the COMPASS™ test, candidates must:
✔ Score minimum 23 points (22 or below = fail)
✔ Meet all 6 red thresholds on the printed report (falling below any = fail)
What You’ll Receive:
– Copy of your COMPASS™ results
– CPP personality report (with explanation)
Other Test Requirements:
✈️ Technical Test:
– Answer 10/15 questions correctly to pass
– Can retry anytime after failing
🧠 CPP Personality Assessment:
– PASS: Minor/Some concerns
– FAIL: Serious concerns
Aviation English:
– Score 4+/7 points per test section
Important Notes:
⏳ Validity: All test results remain valid for 1 year
🔄 Retakes:
– COMPASS™ fail → Retry after 3 months.
– 2nd COMPASS™ fail → Selection process ends. (Airlines and ATOs holds final authority – Aviation authorities like CAAN (Nepal) or FAA (USA) have general guidelines for retesting after failures in pilot exams, but these do not specifically govern COMPASS™ since it’s a pre-selection tool, not a licensing exam)
Details may be updated periodically – for latest information, please check with SAC.
Need help interpreting your results? Our team is happy to explain! 🚀
Service Fees
The fees for assessment services are as follows:
COMPASS Test: €50.00 (Fifty Euros) per attempt (includes Tech Test and English Language Assessment)
COMPASS Personality Test (CPP): €50.00 (Fifty Euros) per attempt
Advanced COMPASS Test: €50.00 (Fifty Euros) per attempt
Important Notes:
• All listed fees are exclusive of applicable local taxes/VAT
Fees are subject to change. For the most current pricing, please contact Sudisha Aviation Consultants (SAC).
Conslusion
The COMPASS™ system offers comprehensive assessment tools designed to identify the most suitable candidates for flight training and aviation careers. From the basic COMPASS™ for beginners to Advanced COMPASS™ for experienced pilots, and the detailed Personality Profile that evaluates 15 key competencies, these assessments provide valuable insights into a candidate’s aptitude and potential for success in the aviation industry. The new Pre-COMPASS™ web-based tool further enhances the selection process by helping organizations efficiently create shortlists of promising candidates.
Whether you’re an aspiring pilot looking to understand what will be expected of you, or a flight training organization seeking to optimize your candidate selection process, understanding the COMPASS™ system is essential in today’s competitive aviation environment. For more detailed information about any aspect of the COMPASS™ assessments and how they can benefit you or your organization, don’t hesitate to contact SAC. Their expertise can help guide you through the process and ensure you make informed decisions about your aviation future.
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