Placement Testing Information

Placement testing may be required for courses with prerequisites of demonstration of college-level communication and computation (F.S. 1008.30)

The state of Florida permits the use of Accuplacer Next-Generation and the Postsecondary Education Readiness Test (PERT) as common placement methods. (F.A.C. 6A-10.0315). FSW uses Accuplacer Next-Generation as its main tool for placement. The PERT is also available for those who wish to use it.

To ascertain if students are prepared for college-level courses, both tests precisely assess their skills in reading, writing, and math areas.

The ACCUPLACER Placement Test

• The ACCUPLACER exam has 20/25 multiple choice questions for each required subtest section (Reading, Writing, and Math (QAS-quantitative algebra and statistics).
• The exam is not timed; however, the estimate is approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour per section.
• Once you have answered a question, you cannot go back.
• No personal calculators are allowed—The ONLY calculator that may be used is built into the math portion of the exam and may not be provided for every question.
• White board with marker and eraser, and/or scratch paper/pencil will be provided by the Testing Center.
• Students will receive a copy of the ACCUPLACER scores via email upon completion of the exam.

The P.E.R.T. Placement Test

• The P.E.R.T. exam has 30 multiple choice questions for each required subtest section (Reading, Writing, and Math (QAS-quantitative algebra and statistics).
• The exam is not timed; however, the estimate is approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour per section.
• Once you have answered a question, you cannot go back. No personal calculators are allowed—The ONLY calculator that may be used is built into the math portion of the exam and may not be provided for every question.
• White board with marker and eraser, and/or scratch paper/pencil will be provided by the Testing Center.
• Students will receive a paper copy of the P.E.R.T. scores upon completion of the exam.

Helpful Links

• ACCUPLACER’s free Student Practice Test provides students with practice resembling an actual test. An account will need to be created to complete the ACCUPLACER practice tests.

  • ACCUPLACER Practice Tests for Reading, Writing, Math (QAS), and AAF exams.
  • English as a Second Language Tests—English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Program only.
• ACCUPLACER Sample Questions — Reading, Writing, and Math.
• AAF Sample Questions (PDF).
• P.E.R.T. Study Guide (PDF).
• P.E.R.T. Practice Tests

Regulations

• All students attempting to test for placement will have a maximum of three attempts.
• The student may choose which method mentioned above to use for each attempt.
• There is no charge for an admitted FSW student to take a placement test.
• If a student passes at least one section (reading, writing, or math), there is no need to retake the same section using any of the common placement examinations.
• The PERT can only be administered on-campus. There is no remote option available for testing.
• FSW students must make an appointment for testing. We do not allow walk-ins except during extended hours.
• FSW students must wait seven days to retake any section to allow time for remediation to take place. Accelerated Pathways students (Dual Enrollment) must wait thirty days to retake any section.
• The student must provide a valid photo ID (government-issued identification such as a Driver's License, Green Card, Passport, Military ID, an FSW BUC ID Card, or a current High School or College ID). Taking a test is not allowed without a valid photo ID.
• All scratch paper will be collected by the testing staff before you leave the testing center or destroyed in front of a proctor.
• Minors are not allowed in computer labs and are not allowed to be left unattended on FSW premises.
• Labs are equipped with video surveillance equipment and computers are monitored during testing. Remote testing is proctored live also.
• Students are not allowed to view other websites or utilize non-permitted exam materials while testing. Doing so is a violation of student conduct and may invalidate your test scores.

Prohibited Items

• Electronic devices (personal calculators, cell phones, smart watches/glasses, electronic glasses of any kind, iPads, or ear phones/buds).
• Personal items such as sunglasses, watches, hats, handbags, backpacks, or umbrellas.
• Food or beverages.

Note: If your intent is to use PERT instead of Accuplacer Next-Generation, please inform the testing staff at the time of your appointment. Even though you may use either method for any of the maximum three attempts, here is the recommended pathway for testing: