The PERT assessment is meant  to determine whether you are ready for college level classes. Ultimately, your score on the test will place you into either college-prep or college-level courses. The PERT is not a PASS/FAIL test, and it is not a measure of intelligence; it is simply an assessment of your academic preparedness. Consequently, the more seriously you take the test, the more likely you are to prepare appropriately.

Although students want to start college-level classes immediately, it is often more advisable to take those classes that are accurately leveled to where you are as a student. Some students decide to take courses for which they are not prepared, and they often end up struggling through the semester, feeling lost and discouraged, withdrawing from the course, or maybe even failing. The PERT assists you in making a decision that is appropriate for you and assists you with your College success.

PERT Quick Testing Facts

• The PERT is an entry-level placement test required of all degree seeking students in the Florida College System (FCS) according to Florida Statutes, Section 1008.30, Rule 6A-10.0315. This test will determine your initial placement in English, reading and mathematics courses.

• The PERT is not a pass/fail assessment. The results of the assessment will determine your placement for English and Math courses at LSSC.

• Three sections: Reading, Writing, and Mathematics

• 30 questions per section

• For most students, it can take up to 3 hours to complete the test in its entirety.  However, the test is not timed.

• Personal calculators are not permitted; however, there will be a computer calculator available on certain math questions of the test.  If a calculator does not appear on screen, then it is not permitted for the problem.  

• Scratch paper and a pencil is provided.

• Test scores are valid for 2 years from the date taken.

• Exam results are available as soon as test is completed.

PERT ATTEMPT POLICY - EFFECTIVE 1 July 2024

• If taking the PERT exam at Lake-Sumter State college, a student is allowed a maximum of 3 attempts on the PERT per calendar year, regardless of which sections completed for first time in college/dual-enrolled students.
  • Tests completed at the high school do not count as an attempt at Lake-Sumter.  Only tests completed here count as an attempt.

• A student must wait 30 calendar days between attempts. This will allow you to study and freshen your skills and be ready for the next exam. You can get assistance studying for the PERT from the Academic Support Center.

• A valid receipt is required per attempt.  You must pay for every attempt.

Schedule Test and Submit Payment

Students must schedule an appointment a minimum of 24 hours prior to their intended test day.

Register at the Leesburg campus Testing Center

Register at the South Lake/Clermont campus Testing Center

Register at the Sumter Center in Sumterville Testing Center

Accommodations 

If you require accommodations for this exam, please contact Student Accessibility Services (SAS) for more information before scheduling at (352) 365-3589 or lssc.edu/SAS.

PERT Payment and Receipt Policy 

PERT testing fee is $25. All testing fees must be paid online with credit or debit card only. Cash is not accepted.

• A valid receipt is required per attempt.  You must pay for every attempt.

• A valid receipt must be presented to the proctor in order to test.

• A receipt is only valid for 30 days from payment.  You must take the test within 30 days of payment, or the receipt will expire.
  • If you need a refund, you must request it from Testing Services within 7 days of initial payment.  No refunds are available for expired receipts.

Accommodated Testing

• If you are a student needing accommodations for this exam, please reach out to the SAS (Student Accessibility Services) Department prior to scheduling your appointment.  Contact information: lssc.edu/SAS.