Written

[scottyboy75]

So I was sitting at the airport the other day when the subject of writtens came up. My question is this; as long as you pass does it matter what you score on the written? How does a lower score affect your life? Just something I am wondering about.

[dc3flyer]

I don't know for sure, but I believe as long as you pass you are okay. I think the FAA is the only ones that see your actual grade. Some people say the examiner will be tougher on you if you have a lower grade, but I haven't really seen that through my/my students' experiences.

I know Part 121 and 135 carriers do what is called a PRIA check on you, but I don't think they see your written scores.

[Maurus]

I believe the examiners are supposed to look at your weak areas that are stated on the sheet with your score and ask questions about these areas. This is why it is best for a CFI to go over the weak area on the test no matter what the score is.

[MSNFlyer]

Remember that the checkride is all about overall performance. If an applicant shows up late, doesn't have the maint. logbooks in order fumbles around showing the endorsements, has a sloppy 8710 and comes in with a 70 on the knowledge test the examiner will not be impressed.

I have spoken with two DPEs on this subject and they both tell me that a lower score doesn't sway them as much as overall performance. Some people just don't take tests well. They may get grilled a bit more in the oral but if you know your stuff and impress the DPE a low score won't hurt you.

[johntlewis]

Originally Posted by MSNFlyer

Remember that the checkride is all about overall performance. If an applicant shows up late, doesn't have the maint. logbooks in order fumbles around showing the endorsements, has a sloppy 8710 and comes in with a 70 on the knowledge test the examiner will not be impressed.

I have spoken with two DPEs on this subject and they both tell me that a lower score doesn't sway them as much as overall performance. Some people just don't take tests well. They may get grilled a bit more in the oral but if you know your stuff and impress the DPE a low score won't hurt you.

MSNFlyer is right. The examiner at the school I'm at has specifically told me that he is more thorough with those who have lower written test scores. Maybe it shouldn't be that way, but I guess that's human nature.