PERT Practice Test : Free Exam Questions & Study Guide
The Postsecondary Education Readiness Test (PERT) is Florida's customized common placement test. It determines course placement for college students in mathematics, reading, and writing. Your PERT score decides whether you can enroll directly into college-credit courses or if you need remedial developmental education classes first. Understanding the PERT definition and PERT meaning helps students realize the importance of this exam for skipping remedial classes.
Success on the PERT exam can save you time and money by bypassing non-credit prerequisite courses. Our free PERT practice test questions and study guide are designed to help you demonstrate your true academic potential. Whether you are taking the PERT test Florida version at a college or high school, our resources will prepare you for the PERT assessment. To properly define PERT requirements for your specific college, check with your advisor.
Note: The PERT is not a pass/fail exam. It is a diagnostic tool used by Florida College System institutions to place students in appropriate courses. High scores allow you to skip developmental classes.
Free PERT Practice Tests
Prepare for your college placement with our comprehensive PERT practice tests. These subject-specific quizzes cover reading, writing, and mathematics to ensure you are ready for every section of the exam. Taking a PERT test practice quiz is the best way to identify your strengths and weaknesses.
PERT Exam Flashcards
Quick review concepts for Math, Reading, and Writing
PERT Exam Study Guide
The PERT study guide covers essential information about the test format, registration, and scoring. Understanding these basics is crucial for achieving a high placement score.
| What is the PERT exam? | To define PERT simply: The Postsecondary Education Readiness Test (PERT) is a common placement test used by Florida colleges to determine a student's readiness for college-level courses in math, reading, and writing. |
| Who needs to take the PERT test? | Students entering the Florida College System who do not have exemption status based on ACT/SAT scores or high school GPA/diploma requirements often need to take the PERT test. |
| Is the PERT test hard? | The PERT is designed to assess high school level skills. It is computer-adaptive, meaning difficulty adjusts based on your answers. Preparation with a PERT exam study guide makes it manageable. |
| Can I use a calculator on the PERT? | A built-in pop-up calculator appears on the screen for specific math questions where it is allowed. You cannot bring your own calculator. |
| How many questions are on the PERT test? | There are 30 questions per subtest (Reading, Writing, Mathematics), for a total of 90 questions. Usually, 25 are scored and 5 are field test items. |
| Is the PERT test timed? | No, the PERT is an untimed exam. You can take as much time as you need to complete each section, typically taking about 3 hours total. |
| What subjects are on the PERT? | The PERT test format covers three subjects: Mathematics (Algebra, Geometry), Reading (Comprehension, Analysis), and Writing (Grammar, Sentence Structure). |
| Is the PERT multiple choice? | Yes, the PERT consists of multiple-choice questions for all three sections. There is no essay writing component. |
| How do I sign up for the PERT test? | You typically register through your college's testing center or assessment office (e.g., Valencia PERT test, MDC PERT testing, Broward College testing). |
| Where can I take the PERT test? | The test is administered at testing centers of Florida College System institutions or sometimes at high schools for dual enrollment purposes. |
| Can I take the PERT online? | Some colleges offer remote PERT testing options, especially for distance learning students, often using proctoring services like Honorlock. |
| What do I need to bring to the PERT? | You must bring a valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport) and your student ID number. No electronics or personal items are allowed. |
| When do I get my PERT scores? | PERT scores are typically available immediately after you finish the exam, as it is computer-scored. |
| What is a good PERT score? | Scores range from 50 to 150. College-ready scores are usually: Math 114+, Reading 106+, Writing 103+. Scores below these may require remedial classes. |
| How long are PERT scores valid? | PERT test scores are generally valid for two years from the date of the exam for placement purposes. |
| Can I retake the PERT test? | Yes, retake policies vary by institution but generally allow retesting after a waiting period (e.g., 30 days) and often require a small fee. |
| How should I study for the PERT? | Use a comprehensive PERT study guide, take free PERT practice tests, and focus on your weak areas, especially PERT math. |
| Is there a penalty for guessing? | No, there is no penalty for incorrect answers on the PERT. It is better to make an educated guess than to leave a question blank. |
| What math is on the PERT? | The math section covers arithmetic, algebra (linear equations, polynomials), coordinate geometry, and data analysis. |
| Do dual enrollment students take PERT? | Yes, high school students seeking dual enrollment often take the PERT to demonstrate college readiness if they haven't taken the ACT or SAT. |
PERT Test Format
The PERT exam consists of three main subtests designed to evaluate your readiness for college-level work. Each section is adaptive and untimed.
Assesses ability to understand written text.
- Topics: Information literacy, synthesis, analysis.
- Questions: 30 multiple-choice items.
Tests grammar, punctuation, and sentence skills.
- Topics: Word choice, clarity, organization.
- Questions: 30 multiple-choice items.
Evaluates algebraic and geometric concepts.
- Topics: PERT math questions, equations, polynomials.
- Questions: 30 multiple-choice items.
Scores determine course placement levels.
- Topics: Scaled score range for each subtest.
- Questions: Scores available immediately.
Difficulty adjusts based on performance.
- Topics: Questions get harder as you answer correctly.
- Questions: Precise measurement of skills.
Work at your own pace without pressure.
- Topics: Average time is about 3 hours total.
- Questions: Take time to read carefully.
Focus heavily on PERT math practice. Algebra is a significant component, and many students find it the most challenging section. Use free PERT math practice tests to identify weak areas.
PERT Score Calculator
Estimate your raw percentage score based on 30 scored questions per section.
PERT Score Interpretation
PERT scores range from 50 to 150. Higher pert test scores allow you to skip developmental courses and enroll directly in college-credit classes. Use the PERT chart below to verify your placement status.
| Subtest | College Ready Score | Course Placement | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 114-150 | MAT 1033 / MAC 1105 | Enroll in College Algebra |
| Reading | 106-150 | ENC 1101 | Enroll in Composition I |
| Writing | 103-150 | ENC 1101 | Enroll in Composition I |
| Developmental | 50-102 | Prep Courses | Remedial Classes Required |
| High Score | 123+ | Advanced Math | Higher Level Placement |
Aim for at least 114 in Math, 106 in Reading, and 103 in Writing to avoid mandatory remedial courses that cost time and money but don't offer college credit. Passing PERT scores vary slightly by institution, but these are the standard cutoffs.
PERT Registration Process
Following the correct steps for PERT test sign up ensures a smooth testing experience at your college or high school.
- Apply to College: Submit your application to the Florida college of your choice to get a Student ID number.
- Check Exemptions: Determine if you are exempt based on SAT, ACT, or high school transcripts (FL Senate Bill 1720).
- Prepare: Use a PERT math study guide and take practice tests to review math and english concepts.
- Schedule Appointment: Log in to your college's testing center portal or visit in person to book a testing slot.
- Pay Fees (If applicable): The first attempt is usually free; pay any required fees for retakes.
- Take the Test: Arrive early at the testing center with your photo ID and student ID number.
- Get Results: Receive your scores immediately and consult with an advisor for course placement.
PERT Test Costs
The PERT is generally affordable for students, with the initial attempt often subsidized by the institution.
Passing the PERT allows you to skip non-credit developmental courses, saving you hundreds of dollars in tuition and textbooks per class.
College Pathways
High PERT scores unlock direct access to degree programs and accelerated career tracks.
PERT Testing Contacts
Contact the testing center of your specific college for appointments and inquiries regarding PERT testing.
Search for "PERT testing near me" to find the closest campus assessment center. Most Florida state colleges administer the exam on campus.
PERT Test Day Checklist
Ready to Pass the PERT?
Start your college journey on the right foot. Take our free PERT practice tests to identify your strengths and weaknesses today.
START PERT PRACTICE TESTPERT Exam Questions and Answers
The PERT (Postsecondary Education Readiness Test) is Florida's standardized placement test used to determine the appropriate course placement for students in math, reading, and writing at Florida colleges.
Each of the three subtests (Reading, Writing, Mathematics) contains 30 questions, for a total of 90 questions. Five questions per section are typically pilot items and do not count toward your score.
The PERT assesses high school level readiness. For students who have completed standard high school coursework, it is generally considered manageable. The computer-adaptive nature means questions adjust to your skill level.
A "good" score is one that qualifies you for college-level courses. Typically, this is 114+ for Math, 106+ for Reading, and 103+ for Writing. Higher scores may place you into advanced classes.
You cannot bring your own calculator. However, a pop-up calculator is provided on the computer screen for specific mathematics questions where its use is permitted.
The PERT is untimed. Most students take about 45 minutes to 1 hour per section, totaling around 2.5 to 3 hours for all three sections, but you can work at your own pace.
PERT testing is available at the assessment centers of Florida's 28 state colleges (e.g., Valencia, MDC, FSCJ). High school students may also be able to take it at their high school.
Use a PERT study guide, review high school math (algebra/geometry) and english concepts, and take free PERT practice tests to familiarize yourself with the question format.
The math section covers arithmetic, order of operations, linear equations, inequalities, polynomials, factoring, coordinate geometry, and standard mathematical reasoning.
Yes, the entire PERT exam consists of multiple-choice questions. There are no essay writing sections or fill-in-the-blank questions.