Are you planning to become a licensed teacher in the United States?
See all you need to know about the Praxis exam this year, such as its purpose, test types, question structure, scoring and prep strategies.
Table of Contents
What is the Praxis exam?
Praxis exam is a standardized test used by many U.S. states to assess teachers’ readiness for the classroom.
This ETS Praxis testing ensures educators meet the professional and academic standards before receiving state certification.
Who administers the Praxis test?
All Praxis tests are developed and administered by ETS: Educational Testing Service.
ETS oversees every stage of Praxis testing, from design and delivery to scoring and reporting.
While each state’s Department of Education decides:
- Whether Praxis is required in that state.
- Which specific tests are required.
- And the minimum passing scores for certification in that state.
Who needs to take Praxis exam?
Anyone planning to become a licensed teacher in a state that requires Praxis must take the exam.
Common test-takers include:
- Education majors entering teacher prep programs.
- Student teachers completing certification requirements.
- Career changers entering teaching through alternative programs.
Where is Praxis exam used?
More than 40 states use Praxis testing, either fully or in combination with their own assessments.
But states like California, Texas and Florida use their own teacher certification tests (CBEST/CSET, TExES and FTCE) instead.
But regardless of state mandates, many institutions still require Praxis Core for entry or graduation.
- SEE ALL STATES AND INSTITUTIONS THAT REQUIRE THE PRAXIS EXAM
Praxis test structure and format
The ETS Praxis exam is computer-based, and available both at PRAXIS TESTING CENTERS and via online proctoring.
Question TypesMultiple-choice (selected response)Numeric entry (enter a number)Constructed response (short or essay-style answers)
Exam details such as test time, number of questions and passing score vary by test and state.
You receive unofficial scores immediately for multiple-choice sections.
- SEE ALL THE TOPICS COVERED IN PRAXIS TESTING
Scoring and state requirements
Praxis scores range from 100 to 200.
And each state sets its own passing score, usually between 150 and 170.
Scores are based on the number of correct answers converted into a scaled score for fairness across test versions.
What to do if you fail?
Wait 28 days before retestingAnalyze your score report for weak areasRefocus your study plan
Exam registration and fees
You can REGISTER FOR PRAXIS online through your ETS account with a valid ID and email.
It costs about $90–$150 depending on the test which can either be taken at a physical Praxis test center or online in your home.
- SEE HOW TO PASS YOUR PRAXIS EXAM
FAQs on Praxis exam
1. Is the Praxis exam hard?
It can be challenging, but constant prep, familiarity with test format and timed practice make it manageable.
2. What’s the difference between Praxis Core and Subject Assessments?
The Praxis Core tests basic skills (reading, writing, math), while Subject Assessments focus on your teaching field.
3. How many times can I retake the Praxis test?
You can retake the exam every 28 days, excluding cancellations by ETS or technical issues.
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