Does the PERT Let You Use a Calculator?

Get a clear answer on the calculator policy for Florida’s Postsecondary Education Readiness Test (PERT). Use our simple checker to see the rules for each section.

PERT Calculator Policy Checker

What is the PERT (Postsecondary Education Readiness Test)?

The Postsecondary Education Readiness Test (PERT) is a computer-adaptive exam used by colleges in Florida to determine a student’s readiness for college-level courses. It is not a pass/fail test; instead, its results guide course placement in the subjects of Mathematics, Reading, and Writing. If your scores are high enough, you can enroll directly in college-level classes. If not, you may be placed in developmental or remedial courses to build your skills first. The test consists of three 30-question, untimed sections designed to accurately assess your academic abilities.

PERT Calculator Formula and Explanation

The primary question students have is: does the PERT let you use a calculator? The answer is not a simple yes or no; it depends entirely on the section of the test and the specific question you are on. Personal calculators are strictly forbidden.

The “formula” for calculator availability is a set of rules defined by the test administrators. The PERT system has a built-in, on-screen calculator that will automatically appear for certain questions within the Mathematics section only. You cannot choose to use it on other questions.

Table 1: PERT Calculator Usage Rules by Section

Test Section	Calculator Allowed?	Explanation
Mathematics	Yes (Conditional)	An on-screen, 4-function calculator is provided for some questions. It will pop up automatically when permitted. You cannot bring your own.
Reading	No	Calculators are not permitted or needed for the Reading section, which assesses comprehension and analysis skills.
Writing	No	Calculators are not permitted or needed for the Writing section, which evaluates grammar and composition skills.

Practical Examples

Understanding when the calculator appears can reduce test-day anxiety.

Example 1: Student in the Mathematics Section

• Input: A student is working through the PERT Mathematics section.
• Scenario: They encounter a complex question involving multi-digit calculations. For this specific problem, the test designers have determined a calculator is appropriate.
• Result: A calculator icon appears on the screen. The student can click it to open a basic 4-function digital calculator to assist them. On the next question, which might test conceptual understanding, the calculator icon will not be available.

Example 2: Student in the Reading or Writing Section

• Input: A student is taking the PERT Reading or Writing section.
• Scenario: They are asked to analyze a paragraph’s main idea or correct a grammatical error.
• Result: No calculator is offered, needed, or allowed. The tasks are entirely based on language and reasoning skills.

How to Use This PERT Calculator Policy Checker

This tool simplifies the rules for you. Here’s how to use it:

1. Select the Test Section: Click the dropdown menu at the top of the page.
2. Choose Your Section: Pick from Mathematics, Reading, or Writing.
3. View the Result: The box below will instantly update to show you the specific calculator rule for that section, telling you if a calculator is permitted and under what conditions.

Key Factors That Affect PERT Calculator Use

Several factors determine whether you will have access to a calculator during the PERT exam. Understanding these can help clarify why the policy exists.

• Test Section: This is the most critical factor. As detailed, only the Mathematics section ever offers a calculator.
• Question-Specific Design: The PERT is a computer-adaptive test. Test creators decide which specific math questions warrant a calculator to test computational skills versus which ones should test mental math and reasoning.
• Provided Tool Only: The rule is absolute: you may not bring your own calculator. This ensures fairness and prevents the use of advanced graphing or programmable calculators. The provided tool is a basic on-screen calculator.
• Test Accommodations: Students with documented disabilities may have specific accommodations. If you require an accommodation, you must arrange it with the testing center and Student Accessibility Services well in advance.
• Academic Integrity: The strict “no personal calculator” rule is in place to maintain the integrity of the test and ensure that scores accurately reflect a student’s skills.
• Test Objective: The PERT aims to measure readiness for college coursework. Some math skills, like estimation and basic arithmetic, are expected to be performed without a calculator.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I bring my own calculator to the PERT test?

No, you are not allowed to bring or use your own calculator for any part of the PERT test. This includes scientific, graphing, or basic calculators.

2. What kind of calculator is on the PERT test?

The PERT provides a basic, on-screen, 4-function calculator (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division) for certain math questions.

3. Will I have a calculator for every math question?

No. The calculator is only available for specific questions where the test designers have enabled it. It will automatically appear on the screen when it is allowed.

4. Is there a calculator on the PERT Reading section?

No, there is no calculator on the PERT Reading section.

5. Is there a calculator on the PERT Writing section?

No, there is no calculator on the PERT Writing section.

6. What happens if I’m caught with a personal calculator?

Using an unauthorized aid like a personal calculator is a violation of testing rules and could lead to the invalidation of your test scores.

7. Does the PERT exam cost money?

For Florida high school students, the test is often free. Colleges may charge a fee, especially for re-takes. It is best to check with your specific testing center.

8. How long are my PERT scores valid?

PERT scores are generally valid for two years.