As students prepare to transition from high school to college, ensuring they are academically ready for the challenges ahead is essential. One of the key assessments used to determine a student’s preparedness for college-level coursework is the Postsecondary Education Readiness Test (PERT). This placement test is widely used in Florida and helps colleges determine the appropriate level of courses for incoming students. Whether a student is aiming to take math, reading, or writing courses, the PERT helps provide insights into areas that may require further improvement before beginning a degree program.
In this article, we’ll explore the significance of the PERT, how it impacts college placement, and the best ways to prepare for the test using resources. By understanding the format and key areas of the exam, students can feel more confident and ready to tackle their higher education journey.
What is the PERT?
The Postsecondary Education Readiness Test (PERT) is a computer-based placement exam designed to assess the academic readiness of students entering college. The test is used by many Florida colleges and universities to determine a student’s skill level in reading, writing, and mathematics. Based on the results, students are placed in appropriate courses that match their current academic abilities.
Unlike standardized tests like the SAT or ACT, the PERT is not used for college admissions. Instead, it serves as a tool to ensure that students are placed in courses that align with their strengths and areas for growth. The goal is to give each student the best chance of success by providing them with the right level of coursework, whether that’s a remedial class or a college-level course.
Why is the PERT Important?
Accurate Course Placement:
One of the primary reasons for the PERT’s importance is its role in determining appropriate course placement. By assessing a student’s knowledge and skills in math, reading, and writing, the test helps ensure that students are enrolled in classes that match their current abilities. This prevents students from being placed in classes that may be too advanced or too basic for them.Improves Academic Success:
Proper placement based on the PERT results allows students to focus on areas that need improvement and build on their strengths. Students who are placed in courses based on their skills are more likely to succeed and complete their college education. The PERT helps reduce the likelihood of students struggling academically or falling behind.Saves Time and Money:
Taking the PERT can ultimately save students both time and money. By ensuring they are placed in the correct level of courses, students can avoid unnecessary remedial classes or the need to retake courses, which can be costly and time-consuming. The PERT helps streamline the academic path, allowing students to focus on advancing their education.Opens Pathways to College Credit:
For students who demonstrate proficiency in the PERT, they may be eligible to take college-level courses that count toward their degree, avoiding remedial coursework altogether. This can accelerate their college journey and help them achieve their educational goals faster.
How to Prepare for the PERT Exam
Proper preparation for the PERT is crucial for achieving a high score and ensuring that students are placed in the right level of courses. Here are some helpful tips for preparing:
Take a Practice Test:
One of the most effective ways to prepare for the PERT exam is by practicing with PERT test questions. Practice tests allow you to familiarize yourself with the exam format, question types, and time constraints. By taking practice tests, you can identify areas where you need to improve and boost your confidence.Review Key Concepts:
Make sure to review key topics in math, reading, and writing. Brush up on basic algebra, reading comprehension strategies, and grammar rules. Focus your studies on areas where you feel the least confident, and seek additional resources if necessary.Use Online Study Resources:
There are numerous online resources available that can help you prepare for the PERT. Websites, study guides, and instructional videos can provide explanations of key concepts and practice questions to reinforce your learning.Take a Prep Course:
Some students may benefit from enrolling in a formal PERT prep course. These courses offer structured study plans and expert guidance, which can be especially helpful for students who need additional support in specific areas.
What Does the PERT Test Cover?
The PERT consists of three sections: mathematics, reading, and writing. Each section assesses different aspects of academic ability, and the results help determine what level of courses a student should take. Here’s a closer look at each section:
Mathematics:
The math section of the PERT assesses a student’s ability to perform basic arithmetic, solve algebraic equations, and understand functions and graphing. The questions range from basic algebra and number operations to higher-level concepts such as data interpretation and problem-solving. The test is adaptive, meaning that it adjusts in difficulty based on the student’s answers to previous questions.Reading:
The reading section evaluates a student’s comprehension skills, specifically their ability to understand and analyze written text. The questions in this section typically consist of short reading passages followed by multiple-choice questions that test understanding, inference, and vocabulary. The reading section helps determine whether a student is ready to take college-level reading courses or if they require additional preparation.Writing:
The writing section assesses grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and overall writing skills. Students are asked to review sentences and choose the correct option to improve clarity, coherence, and grammar. The writing section is designed to evaluate a student’s readiness for college-level writing tasks, such as essays and research papers.
How is the PERT Scored?
The PERT is a computer-adaptive test, which means that the test becomes more challenging based on the student’s responses. Each student starts with questions of moderate difficulty, and depending on whether the answers are correct or incorrect, the difficulty of subsequent questions adjusts.
The PERT is scored on a scale for each section:
Math: 107-150
Reading: 106-150
Writing: 103-130
The higher the score, the more likely the student is to be placed in college-level courses. If a student scores lower in one or more sections, they may be placed in remedial courses that focus on strengthening their skills before they can take college-level coursework.
Additional Resources for Exam Preparation
If you’re looking to prepare for other important exams or certifications, consider exploring the following:
GCSE Exam: For students taking high school-level exams, the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) is an important qualification, and practice tests can help prepare.
TASC Practice Test: The Test Assessing Secondary Completion (TASC) is an alternative to the GED, and practice tests can help you gauge your readiness.
Conclusion
The Postsecondary Education Readiness Test (PERT) is an essential tool for ensuring students are academically prepared for college-level coursework. By assessing key areas like math, reading, and writing, the PERT helps colleges place students in the appropriate level of courses, ensuring their academic success. Proper preparation through practice tests can help students perform well on the exam and start their college journey on the right foot.