Baseline Assessment
Baseline Assessment
The Baseline Assessment is one of the first steps in your admissions process — it’s how we confirm you’re ready for Per Scholas training, not a barrier meant to trip you up. Here’s what to expect and how to prepare.
What to Expect
- 30 multiple-choice questions across three sections: comprehension, critical thinking, and digital literacy
- Comprehension: You will be tested on your comprehension of this video. Watch it as many times as you’d like before starting your timed assessment — there’s no penalty for reviewing it more than once.
- 30 minutes total, with a visible timer — once it hits zero, your assessment submits automatically, finished or not
- Passing score: above 70% (21 out of 30 overall, or 7 out of 10 per section)
- Take it on whatever works for you — smartphone, tablet, or computer
- The invite link doesn’t expire, but we recommend completing it within 48 hours of receiving it — don’t let it sit
- A stable Wi-Fi connection matters. A dropped connection mid-assessment can cause problems, so find a quiet, connected spot before you start
- Assessment results are valid for 2 years
If You Don’t Pass
You’ll automatically be offered a one-time retake — this is expected and normal, not a red flag. Use the study materials again before you retake.
Running Into a Technical Issue?
If you see a “lookup” error when you try to submit, take a screenshot right away and email admissionsadmins@perscholas.org. The team will help you sort it out.
Preparation Resources
The following is a list of best practices for learners to keep in mind when completing the comprehension section of the Baseline Assessment and Retake Baseline Assessment. This also includes free online courses you can complete to prepare for the Critical Thinking and Digital Literacy sections. These resources are optional.
Comprehension
You will be tested on your comprehension of this video. Watch it as many times as you’d like before starting your timed assessment — there’s no penalty for reviewing it more than once.
Use these tips as you watch:
- Active Listening: Focus solely on the speaker or audio source, minimizing distractions.
- Take Notes: Jot down key points while listening to help retain and process information.
- Summarize: After listening, summarize the content in your own words.
- Ask Questions: If something is unclear, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification or replay the audio if watching a video.
- Visualize: Create a mental image of the information being presented.
- Predict: Try to anticipate what will be said next; this keeps you engaged.
- Repeat: Listen to the content multiple times to grasp nuances you might have missed initially.
- Slow Down: Use tools or apps that can slow down the speed of the audio, allowing more time to process information.
Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, and Arithmetic
- Coursera – Solving Problems with Creative and Critical Thinking Improve your critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Khan Academy – Arithmetic A comprehensive set of lessons and practice problems for basic arithmetic.
Digital literacy
- Digital Literacy Course – Microsoft Courses on using devices, software, and the internet.
- DigitalLearn.org – Computer Basics Tutorials on computer basics, from the parts of a computer to using a mouse and keyboard.