Physics subject matter expert exam.
Reading through the various forums, I do not see very much information regarding the physics subject matter exam. I have a few questions hopefully someone can answer....
What are the pass rates for this exam? I see the pass rates for most of the other subjects but physics is omitted.
Is this a relatively new subject, hence the lack of information compared to the other certification areas?
Is the format of this exam multiple choice only, and do you get your results immediately upon completion of this test?
If you pass, what is the timetable for receiving your ABCTE certificate providing you have already passed the PTK?
If you fail the exam, what is the cost to switch your concentration to another subject like general science?
Thank you in advance for any assistance you can provide.
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Mr. Wolfe,
Physics is not a new subject area, but it is a very low volume exam. As a result, the pass rate fluctuates widely from quarter to quarter. According to ABCTE's Research and Assessment Manager, from Quarter 4 2008 to Quarter 4 2009, the pass rate for the Physics exam was 67.5%.
The format of the exam is multiple choice only and consists of 125 multiple choice questions. You will receive your results immediately after completing your exam at the Pearson Vue testing center. For a more in depth guide on what topics are assessed, please refer to the following link to see ABCTE's Physics Exam Snapshot: http://www.abcte.org/system/files/physics_snapshot.pdf.
Once you pass the Physics exam, provided you have also already passed the PTK, we will then process your transcripts and run your background check if you have sent them in to us already. Running a background check can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few days. Once the background check clears, we will then process your ABCTE Certificate and send it in the mail.
The total estimated time frame for this process after passing both of your exams can be anywhere from 5 to 7 days. This is if you have already sent in your transcripts and your background authorization form. If you decide to submit these documents after passing your exams, the process will take longer.
If you are taking the Physics exam for the first time and do not pass, you will have two more chances to retake it. Please note that there is a retake fee of $160 per exam. If the Physics exam (or any other subject area exam) is not passed on the third attempt, you will no longer be eligible for certification in that subject area, but, you will have the option of opting into another subject area for an additional fee. You mentioned switching to General Science; right now the current fee to change a subject area is $775.
If Physics is the subject you still want to seek certification in, you will have to pursue other avenues in order to become certified.