Senior Comprehensive Exams
Frequently Asked Questions

What grades are given?---Comprehensive Examination results are graded on the same scale as SIPs “Fail,” “Pass with Distinction.” These grades also appear on the transcript. However, there are not provisions for listing Comprehensive grades for minors on the transcript. Therefore, if you are a minor you will only be notified that you have passes or not. For the same reason, minors cannot qualify for “Pass with Distinction.”

What is the exam like?---The main portion of the Comprehensive Examination is the Major Field Test in Psychology constructed by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). This test is designed to assess basic familiarity and understanding of concepts, principles, and knowledge expected of graduating psychology majors. It consists of approximately 200 multiple-choice questions. You will receive feedback showing how well you did compared to a normative sample of graduating senior majors at a wide range of colleges and universities. In addition to feedback on overall performance, you get information about your relative performance in different areas of Psychology.

When is the exam given?---Because ETS has a rigid schedule of scoring their exams it is necessary to schedule the exam at the end of winter quarter or very early spring quarter, usually on the first or second day of classes. You should plan to be on campus as soon as spring quarter begins if necessary and ready to take the exam.

How do I study for this exam?---A “practice” exam is given in the fall or early winter quarter. Based on a similar type of exam, it will give you some idea of how much preparation is needed and a rough indication of what areas of psychology need more effort. It also gives you more experience with this type of “power” exam, consisting of many multiple-choice items covering a wide variety of topics.

The first step in preparation is to review an introductory psychology textbook. If you don’t have yours from General Psychology, ask a member of the Psychology faculty for suggestion on which one to use. If you have additional time, it is suggested that you read additional introductory texts. Also, if there are areas of psychology in which you have done poorly or have not taken any courses, ask faculty members about specific texts in those areas.

It is not advisable to study for the “practice” exam. The results do not “count” in any way except as an indication of where you stand and where you might need to do more preparation.

How are grades given?---The criterion for a “Pass” is a score equal to the 50th percentile (35th percentile for minors), based on the normative sample. A score at or above the 90th percentile qualifies you for consideration for the “Pass with Distinction” grade. However, since College policy states that this grade cannot be given on the basis of only one kind of examination, if you qualified you would be given an oral examination. Your combined performance on both exams would determine whether you receive “Pass with Distinction.”

What is the oral examination?---The oral examination consists of answering a number of questions in an interview situation with several members of the Psychology Department faculty. Some of the questions will be given to you to prepare ahead of time and some shortly before the interview; others are revealed only during the interview. If you qualify for “Pass with Distinction” but do not wish to take the oral examination, you will still receive the “Pass” grade. However, you are strongly encouraged to take the oral examination since: 1) it is good practice for graduate school or job interviews; 2) the worst outcome is a “Pass” grade; and 3) “Pass with Distinction” on the Comprehensive Examination improves one’s chances for Honors in Psychology or other Psychology Awards. Additional information about the oral examination is given to those who qualify. Typically, between 20% and 40% of a given class will qualify. Typically also, most but not all, of those who take the oral examination receive “Pass with Distinction.”

What if I don’t pass?---If you do not achieve a passing score on the Major Field Test, you are given a different kind of examination. It consists of a “take home,” essay question examination that you have one week to complete. You are expected to consult library and other sources in answering questions and to reference your work appropriately. Because this examination requires a considerable amount of work, it is usually scheduled some time after completion of the spring quarter, at your convenience.

How do SIP and Comprehensive Examination grades affect eligibility for Honors in Psychology?---Receiving the “Pass with Distinction” grade on either or both increase your chances of receiving Honors in Psychology. However, not receiving these grades does not automatically disqualify you. Determination for Honors is made by consensus of all members of the Psychology faculty, taking into account all your accomplishments.

Will I still graduate if I don’t pass my Comprehensive Examination?---Since the Comprehensive Examination is a College graduation requirement, you must have passing grades on it in order to receive your diploma. However, not pass the Comprehensive Examination does not prevent you from “marching” at commencement.