Your Guide to the PERT Test at Valencia

Starting your academic journey at Valencia College is an exciting milestone, but before you register for your first set of core classes, you may need to take a placement exam. The Postsecondary Education Readiness Test—widely known as the PERT—is designed to evaluate your skill levels in reading, writing, and mathematics. Passing or placing out of these modules ensures you are enrolled in courses suited to your current academic abilities, saving you time and money.

Navigating college placement exams can feel intimidating, but understanding the logistics makes the process much smoother. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about scheduling, preparing for, and successfully completing the PERT test at Valencia.

Understanding the PERT Test at Valencia College

The PERT is a computer-adaptive exam mandated by the Florida Department of Education. This means the difficulty of the questions adjusts dynamically based on whether you answered previous questions correctly. Unlike timed standardized tests, the PERT has no time limit, allowing you to work through each section at a comfortable pace.

The exam is split into three distinct subtests:

• Reading: Measures your ability to comprehend, analyze, and synthesize information from various reading passages.
• Writing: Evaluates your knowledge of standard English syntax, sentence structure, punctuation, and grammar.
• Mathematics: Assesses skills ranging from basic arithmetic to elementary algebra and college-level mathematical concepts.

Each subtest consists of 30 multiple-choice questions. While your score is technically out of 150 points per section, these numbers do not translate to traditional letter grades. Instead, Valencia advisors use your scaled scores to determine whether you qualify for college-level courses (such as ENC 1101 or MAC 1105) or if you would benefit from developmental education coursework first.

Who Needs to Take the Exam?

Not every incoming student is required to take the PERT. Valencia College automatically exempts certain students based on previous academic achievements. You may be exempt from the PERT test if you:

• Have earned qualifying SAT or ACT scores within the last two years.
• Completed college-level English and math courses with a grade of 'C' or higher at another regionally accredited institution.
• Entered a Florida public high school in 2003 or later and graduated with a standard high school diploma (though exemptions here can vary based on specific program tracks and GPA thresholds).
• Are a non-degree-seeking student taking classes strictly for personal enrichment.

If none of these exemptions apply to you, or if your advisor recommends taking the test to improve your course placement, you will need to schedule your testing appointment.

How to Schedule and Take Your Test

Taking the PERT test at Valencia requires a bit of pre-planning. The college offers testing services at multiple campus locations, including East, West, Osceola, Lake Nona, and Winter Park.

Steps to Register

1. Apply to Valencia College: You must complete an admissions application and receive your Atlas student ID number before you can register for testing.
2. Pay the Fee: While your first attempt at the PERT is generally free for Valencia students, retakes often carry a nominal fee. Check the current testing center guidelines for updated pricing.
3. Schedule Your Appointment: Log into your Atlas account to access the testing scheduler, or visit the Assessment and Certification Center page to reserve your seat at your preferred campus.

What to Bring on Test Day

On the day of your exam, make sure you arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time. To ensure a smooth check-in process, bring the following items:

• A valid, government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license, passport, or military ID).
• Your Valencia Atlas student ID number.
• Scratch paper and pencils (usually provided by the testing center, but good to know).

Note that personal items, including cell phones, smartwatches, calculators, and bags, are strictly prohibited in the testing room. Lockers or secure storage areas are typically provided on-site.

Effective Preparation Strategies

Because your PERT scores directly impact your initial college schedule, preparing for the exam is essential. Relying solely on high school memory can lead to lower placement scores, resulting in mandatory developmental classes that do not count toward your degree program.

Utilize Official Study Guides

Valencia College provides direct links to practice materials. The Florida Department of Education publishes a sample PERT study guide that includes practice questions for all three sections. Working through these sample items helps you become familiar with the exact phrasing and format of the test.

Brush Up on Weak Areas

Take a mini-quiz or diagnostic test before diving into heavy studying. If math formulas or punctuation rules feel rusty, spend extra time reviewing those specific concepts using free online resources like Khan Academy or local library study guides.

Manage Your Test Anxiety

Since the PERT is un-timed, take a deep breath and read every question carefully. Do not rush through the reading passages. For the math section, use the digital scratch paper provided to map out your equations step-by-step before selecting an answer.

Understanding Your Scores and Next Steps

Immediately after finishing your exam, you will receive a printout of your scaled scores. Valencia advisors will review these metrics to map out your semester schedule.

If your scores meet or exceed the college-ready cutoffs, you can register immediately for general education courses. If your scores fall below the threshold, do not panic. Valencia offers supportive developmental courses designed to strengthen your foundation quickly so you can transition smoothly into credit-bearing classes.

By preparing thoroughly, you can conquer the PERT test at Valencia College with confidence and set yourself up for a successful collegiate career.