PERT Test Scores: What You Need to Know for College Success

If you’re planning to attend college in Florida, understanding what PERT test scores mean is crucial for your academic journey. Your PERT exam scores directly impact your college placement, and knowing what scores you need can help you avoid unnecessary remedial courses. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about PERT test scores, from understanding passing scores for dual enrollment students to how to check your PERT exam scores and the requirements for entering college-level courses.

About the PERT test scores

About the PERT test scores

The PERT test, which stands for Postsecondary Education Readiness Test, is a computer-adaptive placement test developed by McCann Associates with Florida educators. Its primary purpose is to generate PERT scores that accurately measure your academic readiness for college-level coursework in Reading, Writing, and Mathematics. The test typically consists of around 25 scored questions in each section and 5 unscored questions as a reference for future tests.

How are PERT test scores used?

Your PERT exam score directly impacts your course placement in Florida’s college system. A higher score typically means you’re eligible for college-level coursework, while a lower score may place you in developmental courses that help you build the skills needed before taking college-level classes. This score is specifically used for purposes such as:

• A high school student is considering dual enrollment to qualify for college-level courses while still in high school.
• A new student enrolling in a Florida college or university determines their readiness for college-level English, Reading, and Math courses.
• A student who hasn’t met readiness requirements through other means, such as qualifying SAT, ACT, or previous college coursework.

PERT test score ranges

The PERT test scores fall within a range from 50 to 150 for each section: Reading, Writing, and Mathematics.

The 50-150 score range for each PERT section is not arbitrary; it’s a result of careful psychometric design and standardization. Because the PERT is a computer-adaptive test, your raw score (number of correct answers) isn’t directly used. Instead, a complex algorithm analyzes your responses based on the difficulty of each question. This raw performance is then converted into a scaled score within the 50-150 range, making it a standardized and interpretable measure of your proficiency.

How to check PERT scores

After taking the PERT, your scores are often available almost immediately. Here’s how you can typically check them:

• On-site report: Sometimes, you’ll receive a printed score report directly after completing the test at the testing center.
• Student portal: Most colleges and universities will post your scores on your secure online student portal. Log in to your admissions or student account to find them.
• Admissions office: If you can’t find your scores online, contact the college’s admissions office or testing center. They can provide your scores or guide you on how to access them.

What are the PERT passing scores?

What are the PERT passing scores?

The PERT, as a placement test, doesn’t have traditional “passing” or “failing” scores in the way you might think of a pass/fail exam. Instead, your PERT test scores determine your readiness for specific college-level courses. Florida colleges use cut scores to place you into the most appropriate class based on your current skill level.

To be placed directly into college-level courses, students need to meet the following minimum PERT passing scores:

• Reading: 106 or higher
• Writing: 103 or higher
• Mathematics: 114 or higher

Achieving these scores ensures that you’re prepared for college-level coursework and won’t need additional remedial classes. If your scores are below these thresholds, you’ll be placed into developmental courses to strengthen your skills before progressing to credit-bearing college courses.

Below is a detailed breakdown of course placement based on your PERT test scores in Writing, Reading, and Mathematics:

English/writing placement levels

Students scoring 100-102 on the PERT English/writing test may enroll in ENC 1101 if they also enroll in ENC 1101L. Please see an academic advisor. Students are required to enroll in the course based on their lowest PERT score in either Reading or English.

Reading placement levels

Math placement levels

Students scoring 133 or greater may take the CLM (College-Level Math) test to place into a higher-level math course, potentially.)

How to improve PERT exam scores

If your initial PERT test scores don’t meet your expectations, you’ve got several effective strategies to boost them in other attempts:

• Target weaknesses: Review your score report to pinpoint specific areas (Reading, Writing, or Math) that need improvement, then focus your study there.
• Use credible resources: Take advantage of the free PERT study guide and online free PERT practice tests provided by Easy Prep to familiarize yourself with the test.
• Strengthen fundamentals: If a subject is challenging, go back to basics. Brush up on foundational skills in math, reading comprehension strategies, or grammar and essay structure for writing.
• Seek support: Many colleges offer free tutoring or remedial courses specifically designed to help students improve their skills for the PERT.
• Plan a retake: If permitted by your institution, prepare thoroughly and consider retaking the test. Always check their specific retake policies, including any waiting periods or fees.

By focusing your preparation strategically, you can significantly increase your chances of achieving the PERT exam scores needed for your college goals.

FAQs

1. What are the PERT passing scores for dual enrollment?

For dual enrollment students, meeting specific PERT passing scores is crucial for placement into college-level courses, allowing you to earn college credit while still in high school. Beginning with Fall 2024 registration, all students must present minimum placement scores in Reading, English (Writing), and Math on an approved placement test.

The minimum PERT scores generally required to be considered “college-ready” and eligible for college-level dual enrollment courses are:

• Reading: 106 or higher
• Writing: 103 or higher
• Mathematics: 114 or higher

2. What is a good score for a PERT test?

A good score on the PERT test is one that places you directly into college-level courses without the need for remedial classes. Generally, a score of 113 or higher in Reading and Writing, and a score of 114 or higher in Mathematics, qualifies you for college-level courses.

However, a “good” score can also mean a score significantly higher than the minimum required. Higher scores indicate stronger readiness for college coursework and demonstrate that you are well-prepared to succeed in a variety of college-level classes, including those that may require more advanced skills in reading, writing, and math.

Final thoughts

Understanding PERT test scores is essential for Florida students preparing for higher education. Whether you’re taking the test for dual enrollment or to enter college, knowing the passing PERT scores and what constitutes a good score will help you make the most of your college placement opportunities. To maximize your chances of success, review PERT study guides, practice with sample tests, and seek tutoring if needed. Achieving the required PERT scores ensures that you will be placed in the right courses and set yourself up for a successful college journey.