ETS® Proficiency Profile Scores

Unlike other general education outcomes assessments that provide a single test score, the ETS® Proficiency Profile provides an unparalleled amount and variety of data that allows greater flexibility in how the data can be used and interpreted. The ETS Proficiency Profile offers multiple performance indicators for individual results, groups and subgroups of students.

ETS also provides institutional comparative data so that you can compare your institution’s scores to those of your peers. These data can help you easily identify areas of strength and opportunities for curriculum improvement.

How Are the ETS Proficiency Profile Scores Reported?

There are two scoring conventions: Norm-referenced scores (scaled scores) and Criterion-referenced scores (proficiency classifications).

Norm-referenced scores (scaled scores) compare the scores of one student or group of students to another, or the same student or group at different points in time.

  • Scores can be used for benchmarking or for determining value-added learning gains by conducting a longitudinal or cross-sectional study.
  • Scores are reported both graphically and numerically with a confidence band around the institutional mean scores.
  • The ETS Proficiency Profile offers eight norm-referenced scores:
    • Total Score
    • Skills subscores (critical thinking, reading, writing and mathematics)
    • Context subscores (humanities, social sciences and natural sciences)

Criterion-referenced scores (proficiency classifications) measure the level of proficiency obtained on a certain skill set.

  • Scores can be used for curriculum improvement and individual student progress.
  • Scores are reported both graphically and numerically, showing percentages at each level.
  • The ETS Proficiency Profile provides nine criterion-referenced scores:
    • Mathematics (Level 1, Level 2, Level 3)
    • Writing (Level 1, Level 2, Level 3)
    • Reading (Level 1, Level 2, Level3/Critical Thinking)

What Scores Are Available for the Different ETS Proficiency Profile Forms?

There are two test forms available: Standard and Abbreviated. Both forms are statistically equated assessments and offer the same level of score detail at the group level.

The Abbreviated Form is statistically equated to the Standard Form and provides:

  • a total score, but no subscores, for individual students because there are not enough data to provide statistically reliable subscores
  • total scores, norm-referenced (scaled) subscores and criterion-referenced scores (proficiency classifications) at the group level. Fifty valid results are necessary to generate aggregate reports

The Standard Form provides:

  • a total score and subscores and proficiency classifications for individual students
  • total scores, norm-referenced subscores and criterion-referenced scores at the group level
  • an alphabetical roster with 17 individual student scores

For further information about ETS Proficiency Profile scores, view the Reports section.