PGA Playing Ability Test

The Playing Ability Test (PAT) is a measure of one's golf ability. Passing the PAT is a requirement for PGA membership as well as graduation from the PGA Golf Management program. The PAT is a one-day, 36-hole event held at golf courses around the country. The Mississippi State University Golf Course hosts a PAT once per semester.

Students who have not passed the PAT will participate in a Player Development Program centered on game improvement. Students will complete an assessment using our Trackman combine, a putting combine, weekly drills, and tournament competition. Since implementation of this Player Development Program, we have seen our PAT passing percentage increase from 33% to over 50%. For reference, the national average for the PAT passing percentage is 28%.