Finally, a better and more affordable End of Pathway testing option
Introducing AST STATE CERTIFICATION, the new standard in EOPA testing
The AST State Certification is designed for students who are beginning their automotive careers and have completed a high school or post-secondary training program in automotive technology. This certification provides an opportunity for new technicians to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in specific areas of automotive service and repair.
Test Information:
- Test Format: The AST State Certification exams are computer-based and consist of multiple-choice questions. Each test covers specific areas of automotive service, such as engine repair, brakes, suspension and steering, electrical/electronic systems, and more.
- Number of Questions: Each exam typically contains 40 to 60 questions, depending on the specific area of certification.
- Time Limit: Test-takers are usually given about 60 to 90 minutes to complete each exam, though this can vary depending on the specific test.
- Scoring: The exams are scored on a pass/fail basis. To pass, test-takers must achieve a score that meets or exceeds the predetermined cut-off for each specific test.
Requirements:
- Completion of Training: The AST State Certification is aimed at students who have completed a high school or post-secondary automotive training program. The training should cover the areas in which the student is seeking certification.
- Instructional Hours: It is generally recommended that students have around 300 instructional hours in the relevant area of study before attempting the AST State Certification exam. This helps ensure they have acquired the necessary knowledge and skills.
- No Work Experience Required: Unlike full professional certifications, the AST State Certification does not require prior work experience. It is intended for those who are new to the field.
Prerequisites:
- Enrollment in or Completion of an Automotive Training Program: Candidates must be enrolled in or have completed a high school or post-secondary automotive technology program.
- Basic Knowledge and Skills: Candidates should have a basic understanding of automotive systems and the principles of vehicle maintenance and repair. The curriculum of their training program should align with the areas covered by the AST State Certification exams.
- Age Requirement: While there is no strict age requirement, the certification is typically pursued by students who are nearing the end of their automotive training or have recently completed it.
Certification Validity:
- Duration: AST State Certification is valid for two years. After this period, the certification expires, and the individual is encouraged to pursue full professional certification, which requires work experience and passing more advanced exams.
Benefits:
- Credential for New Technicians: This certification provides a recognized credential for new technicians entering the automotive industry, helping them demonstrate their foundational knowledge to potential employers.
- Pathway to Professional Certification: The AST State Certification serves as a stepping stone toward full professional certification, which is recognized and respected across the automotive industry.
The choice is clear when comparing AST STATE CERTIFICATION to the old ASE Entry-Level Certification
AST State Certification
As little as $20/student*
(ALL Programs)
Up to 7 Attempts per period
Testing Administrator schedules and proctors student tests
Students awarded with Certificate listing all EOPA tests passed
Ability to enable or disable tests through Administrator console
ASE Entry-Level Certification
$46/student (Accredited)
$51/student (Non-Accredited)
Limited to 2 test attempts per period
Testing Administrator schedules and proctors student tests
Students awarded with Certificate listing all EOPA tests passed
Feature not available in the ASE Entry Level testing interface
* Single school year pricing. Schools purchasing as an addon to purchasing access to Automotive Student Testing assessment system. If purchased independently, single school year price is $35.
Areas that students can earn an AST STATE CERTIFICATION
(A1)
Engine Repair
(A2)
Automatic Transmission / Transaxle
(A3)
Manual Drive Train & Axles
(A4)
Suspension & Steering
(A5)
Brakes
(A6)
Electrical / Electronic Systems
(A7)
Heating & Air Conditioning
(A8)
Engine Performance
(MR)
Mainteneance and Light Repair
(AS)
Automotive Service Technology
ASE Test Prep LLC seeks endorsements from automotive service industry leaders
ASE Test Prep introduces Automotive Student Testing (AST) State Certification, an alternative to ASE Entry-Level Certification in automotive education.
Is AST Student Certification like ASE Entry-Level Certification?
Yes, AST Student Certification closely aligns with ASE Entry-Level Certification test specifications and published Task Lists, presenting similar diagnostic challenges as the ASE MAST Series, MLR, and AST tests.
Why the new Certification?
Secondary automotive education often faces budget constraints, leading to outdated equipment and doing more with less. ASE Test Prep’s affordable certification upholds ASE standards at half the cost, freeing up funds for better equipment and enhancing education.
Your contribution matters
Your review and endorsement of the AST State Certification testing system could be the catalyst to statewide adoption.
Ready to make a difference?
Call ASE Test Prep at 844-273-8378 to get involved. Your support could be crucial in advancing AST State Certification approval in your state. Make the call today to show your support!
Automotive Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs play a crucial role in preparing students for successful careers in the automotive industry. To ensure that students are adequately equipped with the knowledge and skills needed for entry-level employment, it’s essential for these programs to incorporate reliable and comprehensive certification testing. One such valuable tool is the Automotive Student Testing State Certification, offering a range of benefits that make it an advantageous choice for CTE programs.
Additionally, the affordability of AST STATE CERTIFICATION at $26 per student provides a cost-effective solution for schools looking to assess their students’ proficiency in automotive technology. This price point makes it accessible for institutions with limited budgets, allowing them to allocate resources effectively while still providing valuable certification for their students.
In comparison to the ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) Entry-Level Certification, which costs an average of $48.50 per student, AST STATE CERTIFICATION stands out as a more economical option. The significant cost difference means that schools can certify twice as many students with AST STATE CERTIFICATION for the same amount of money required for ASE Entry-Level Certification. Or conversely, can test the same number of students but pay only half of what they normally pay.
Another key advantage of AST STATE CERTIFICATION is the flexibility it offers in testing frequency. While ASE Entry-Level Certification allows students to take the test only twice during a testing period, AST STATE CERTIFICATION allows for up to 7 opportunities. Students can take the test many times within the testing period, giving them more chances to demonstrate their understanding and improve their scores. This flexibility is invaluable in supporting students’ learning and growth.
In conclusion, AST STATE CERTIFICATION offers a compelling choice for automotive CTE programs seeking an effective and affordable certification solution. With its lower cost per student, increased testing frequency, schools can enhance their programs and better prepare students for success in the automotive industry.
What is End of Pathway testing?
The Automotive End of Pathway Assessment (EOPA) testing is a comprehensive assessment used in Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, specifically in automotive pathways. These assessments are designed to evaluate the knowledge and skills of students who have completed a course or a series of courses in automotive technology.
The purpose of the Automotive EOPA is to ensure that students have gained the necessary competencies to be successful in the automotive industry or to continue their education in this field. These assessments typically cover a wide range of topics, including:
- Automotive systems (such as engines, transmissions, brakes, steering, and suspension)
- Electrical systems
- Diagnostic procedures
- Repair techniques
- Safety protocols
- Environmental regulations
- Tools and equipment usage
Successful completion of the EOPA often leads to a certification or recognition that the student is prepared for entry-level positions in the automotive industry or for further education in automotive technology.
These assessments are an important part of CTE programs, helping to ensure that students are equipped with the skills needed for success in their chosen career paths.
