The state of the art in college-level competency testing is described, as is the development of a communication test for the University of Wisconsin-Parkside program. The research described herein exposes the fact that some students have communication problems which could inhibit their learning abilities. Valid and reliable procedures are needed to help students determine and correct speaking and listening deficiencies. To this end, the Communication Competency Assessment Instrument (CCAI) is proposed as a method of assessing these basic, necessary skills. The results of college-level competency testing can be used in various ways. Some suggestions are offered, all with the intention of providing useful information and feedback on students' skill achievement to help them become more effective communicators in college. (Author/GK)