3rd Grade PSSA Math Practice Test Questions
TL;DR: Got a third grader prepping for PSSA Math in Pennsylvania? These free practice questions are matched to Pennsylvania Core Standards and cover what the test leans on hardest at this level: multiplication, fractions, area, place value, and the open-ended response items where PSSA scoring is the toughest. Work through them with your child, talk about the reasoning behind any misses, and you will spot which topics still need a little more time.
Key takeaways:
- Grade 3 PSSA Math has about 55-65 questions across three sessions.
- Item types include multiple choice and 1-2 open-ended (constructed-response) items per session.
- No calculator at grade 3.
- Pennsylvania Core Standards align closely with Common Core for grade 3 math.
- Performance levels: Below Basic, Basic, Proficient, and Advanced – Proficient is the on-grade-level mark.
A. Each shows the same fraction because they are the same size.
B. Each shows a different fraction because they are different shapes.
C. Each shows the same fraction because they both have 3 sections shaded.
D. Each shows a different fraction because they both have 3 shaded sections but a different number of total sections.
8- To what number is the arrow pointing?
A. 36
B. 38
C. 30
D. 42
9- Emily has 108 stickers and she wants to give them to nine of her closest friends. If she gives them all an equal number of stickers, how many stickers will each of Emily’s friends receive? ___________
10- The following models are the same size and each is divided into equal parts.
The models can be used to write two fractions.
Based on the models, which of the following statements is true?
A. \(\frac{2}{8}\) is bigger than \(\frac{4}{16}\).
B. \(\frac{2}{8}\) is smaller than \(\frac{4}{16}\).
C. \(\frac{2}{8}\) is equal to \(\frac{4}{16}\).
D. We cannot compare these two fractions only by using the models.
Best 3rd Grade Math Prep Resource for 2026
Answers:
1- A
\(8000 – 658 = 7342\)
2- D
\(14 × 40 = 560\)
3-D
24,589 is the sum of \(20,000; 4,000; 500; 80;\) and 9
4- C
\(A = 44 – (21 + 9)\)
\(A = 14\)
5- C
In 1 day 4 meals so \(4 × 7 = 28\) meals a week.
6- D
\(A = 72 ÷ 8\)
\(A= 9 \)
7- D
the model for the first fraction is divided into 6 equal parts. We shade 3_6 to show the same amount as 1_2. The model for the second fraction is divided into 8 equal parts. We shade 3_ 8 that it shows these two models are different fractions.
8- C
The arrow shows exactly the middle of two numbers 25 and 35, so the answer is 30.
9- 12
\(108 ÷ 9 = 12\)
10- C
the model for the first fraction is divided into 8 equal parts. We shade 2_ 8 to show the same amount as 1_ 4. The model for the second fraction is divided into 16 equal parts. We shade 4_ 16 to show the same amount as 1_ 4.
Looking for the best resource to help you succeed on the 3rd Grade Math test?
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For a workbook your child can use alongside these practice questions, Mastering Grade 3 Math covers every Pennsylvania Core Standard with worked examples. For extra open-ended and word-problem practice (a big PSSA focus), see Mastering Grade 3 Math Word Problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many questions are on the 3rd grade PSSA Math test?
The grade 3 PSSA Math has about 55-65 questions across three sessions. Most items are multiple choice, but each session includes 1-2 open-ended (constructed-response) questions where your child shows work and explains thinking for partial credit.
Is a calculator allowed on the 3rd grade PSSA?
No. Pennsylvania doesn’t allow calculators on the grade 3 math test. Your child needs multiplication facts through \(10\times 10\) memorized and should handle multi-digit addition, subtraction, and basic division by hand.
How long does the PSSA Math take?
The three sessions run about 60 minutes each, with most third-graders finishing in 45-55 per session. Sessions are usually spread across two or three school days, so total math testing is roughly 2.5-3 hours.
What’s a passing score on the 3rd grade PSSA?
Pennsylvania reports four levels: Below Basic, Basic, Proficient, and Advanced. Proficient is the on-grade-level target schools use. There’s no automatic retention rule tied to grade 3 PSSA scores – that’s a district decision.
Can my child retake the PSSA Math?
No. The grade 3 PSSA Math is given once per year, in the spring. The spring score is the official record. Schools may use other diagnostic tests during the year, but those don’t replace PSSA.
What math topics are on the 3rd grade PSSA?
Multiplication and division within 100, fractions on a number line, equivalent fractions, area and perimeter of rectangles, place value to 1,000, multi-digit addition and subtraction, time to the minute, measurement (length, mass, liquid volume), money word problems, and reading bar and picture graphs.
How long should we study for the PSSA Math?
For an on-grade-level child, 4-6 weeks at 15-20 minutes daily is enough. For a child who’s struggling, 8-12 weeks at 25 minutes daily works better. Multiplication-fact fluency is the single most useful skill – it sets up division, fractions, area, and most word problems.
Where can we get more 3rd grade PSSA practice?
EffortlessMath has a free PSSA Math sample set, the Top 10 PSSA Math Practice Questions, and the Mastering Grade 3 Math workbook covering every Pennsylvania Core Standard with worked examples and constructed-response practice.
Does the PSSA align with Common Core?
Yes, mostly. Pennsylvania Core Standards (PA Core) are Common Core-aligned for grade 3 math with state-specific clarifications and some renaming. Multiplication, fractions, area, and place value match Common Core exactly, so CCSS-aligned prep works well.
How can I help my child prep at home?
Three habits help: (1) 5 minutes of multiplication-fact drill daily, (2) one word problem at dinner where your child talks through the steps, and (3) one short timed practice set on the weekend. For the open-ended items, have your child write a sentence with each answer – PSSA scorers reward clear explanations.
Related EffortlessMath Lessons
If a topic on this page feels rusty, these short lessons go deeper:
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