Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who must take the PERT?

All first-time-in college students who do not have college level ACT or SAT scores taken within the last 2 years must take the PERT. Students who have successfully passed courses at other colleges/universities that meet placement requirements are not required to take the PERT provided that official transcripts from the other schools have been received by the Registrar's Office. Transfer students may bring in PERT or FCPT scores taken at another institution provided it is an official score report. Currently, college level scores are as follows:

ACT: Reading 18, Writing 17, Math 19
SAT: Verbal 440, Math 440
PERT: Reading 104, English 99, Math 113

Math Placement Levels
Test
MATH
MAT0018
College Prep
Math I
MATH
MAT0028
College Prep
Math II
MATH
MAT 1033A
Intermediate
Algebra
MATH
MAC 1105
College Algebra
or higher level math course
PERT
50-95
96-112
113-122
123-150
ACT
< 19
PERT Required
< 19
PERT Required
19-20
21
SAT
< 440
PERT Required
< 440
PERT Required
440-499
500

Reading Placement Levels
Test
Reading
REA0007
College Prep Rd 1
Reading
REA0017
College Prep Rd 2
Reading
REA 2105
Adv Read or
Exempt from Reading Course
PERT
50-83
84-103
104-150
ACT
< 18
PERT Required
< 18
PERT Required
18
SAT
< 440
PERT Required
< 440
PERT Required
440

English Placement Levels
Test
English
ENC0015
College Prep
Eng I
English
ENC0025
College Prep
Eng II
English
LIN 1670
English
ENC 1101
Eng Comp 1
PERT
50-89
90-98
99-112 + Reading 104-150
113-150 + Reading 104-150
ACT
<17
PERT Required
<17
PERT Required
17-20
21
SAT
<440
PERT Required
<440
PERT Required
440-499
500

How can I prepare for the PERT?

The PERT tests basic skills so that you can be placed in courses appropriate to your skill level in order to ensure your success. These basic skills include: English, Reading Comprehension, and Math.

Follow this link to PERT Study Resources: http://www.nwfsc.edu/testing/PERT/PERT_study_resources.cfm

Which courses must I take if I score below college level?

You should speak to a Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) advisor or counselor to discuss your options. Advising is available at all seven NWFSC campuses/centers.

Can I retake the PERT?

As per Florida Department of Education (Rule 6A-10.0315), a student will be allowed 2 attempts to take the PERT at the college level in the State of Florida. This is a requirement for each Florida college and must be implemented any time prior to Fall Semester, 2012. At NWFSC, the rule will be in effect beginning July 1, 2012. NWFSC policy states students may retest after 7 days. Remediation is required prior to retesting. Follow this link to the PERT Study Resources. http://www.nwfsc.edu/testing/PERT/PERT_study_resources.cfm

Students will be required to sign an acknowledgment of self-remediation prior to their second attempt.

Can I take college credit courses while I'm enrolled in college prep courses?

Yes. Students enrolled in college prep courses may, at the same time, take college credit courses for which they are qualified.

When do I need to take the PERT and what do I need to bring?

You may take PERT at any time. Bring a driver license, FL ID card, school ID or military ID for identification. All testing supplies will be provided. Please do not bring cell phones or other personal items to the testing room. Some of the problems may have a "pop-up" calculator for you to use, but calculators are NOT available on all problems. Use of personal calculators is prohibited.

Where and when can I take the PERT?

The test is available at all seven NWF State College locations. Testing locations and times.