IF YOU GRADUATED FROM A FLORIDA PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOL AFTER 2007, SKIP THIS SECTION

What is the PERT test?

PERT stands for Postsecondary Education Readiness Test. It tests your ability in mathematics, reading, and writing. The PERT helps you decide if you are academically ready to begin College-level work or need to complete some foundational courses first. The PERT takes about 2.5 hours if you take all 3 parts. But the test is not timed so you can take longer if needed.

Do I need to take the PERT test?

The following do not need to take the PERT test, and can begin at the level of College Composition I and Intermediate Algebra or Introduction to College Mathematics.

- - Active military personnel.
  - High school graduates who began a Florida public high school in 2003-4 or later and graduated from a Florida high school with a standard high school diploma.
  - High school graduates from private schools with ACT or SAT scores at the college-level cutoff. See passing scores below. Order official copies to be sent directly to Polk State.

PERT Passing Scores Table
READING	ENGLISH/READING	MATH
ACT Reading - 19	ACT English - 17	ACT Math - 19
SAT Reading - 24	SAW Writing/Language - 25	SAT Math - 24

- - Transfer students who completed the developmental course sequence in math and English at another Florida postsecondary school or took at least one college-level English and one college-level math with a 2.00 GPA in each class. Send transcripts to Polk State College.
  - High school graduate or transfer student with PERT placement scores less than two years old. Provide official copies to the Admission and Registrar’s office before Orientation.
  - If you are majoring in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math, we strongly urge you to take the Math portion of the PERT. You may do well and place into higher-level Math classes. STEM students have several Math classes to take as a part of their major. Beginning in higher-level math courses will reduce the number of classes you need and help you graduate faster. If you take the test and score low there is NO PENALTY. You still get to start at the level of Intermediate Algebra or Intro to College Math.

How do I prepare for the PERT?

This link will direct you to a study guide for the PERT so you can prepare. PERT Study Guide

How do I register for the PERT?

Contact your Success Coach to let them know you want to register for the PERT.

Where do I take the PERT test?

All PERT testing will be done in-person at one of the College’s testing locations.