What it is
The Praxis tests (from ETS) are used by many states to certify and license teachers. There are a few types: Praxis Core (basic academic skills, often required to enter a teacher-prep program), Praxis Subject Assessments (your content area, like Elementary Education or Mathematics), and the Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT). Which tests and scores you need depends on your state and the grade/subject you'll teach.
Format & structure
- Praxis Core Academic Skills for EducatorsReading, Writing, and Mathematics — a basic-skills gateway, often required before or early in teacher preparation
- Praxis Subject AssessmentsContent-knowledge tests for your teaching field and grade band (e.g., Elementary Education: Multiple Subjects, Secondary math/science/English)
- Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT)Pedagogy and teaching practice, by grade band
How it's scored
Praxis tests are scored on scaled ranges, and each state sets its own passing scores and which tests it requires. There's no single national cutoff — check your state's certification requirements (and your prep program's) for the exact tests and scores you need.
Registration & cost
Register through your ETS Praxis account. Fees vary by test (often around $60–$170 each). You choose which tests to take based on your state and teaching area, and send scores to your state and/or institution.
Test dates & timing
Most Praxis tests are offered year-round (continuously or in windows) at test centers and via at-home proctoring. Register ahead of your program or licensure deadlines.
How to prepare
- Confirm your state's required tests and scoresThis determines exactly what to study
- Use official ETS prepStudy companions, practice tests, and interactive materials match the real tests
- Master your content areaSubject assessments go deep into your teaching field
- Practice the PLT scenariosPedagogy questions reward applying teaching principles
Strategies & tips
- Take Core early if requiredIt's often a prerequisite to enter teacher prep
- Target your subject and grade bandTake the exact assessment your license requires
- Aim above your state's cutoffPassing standards vary by state
- Retake specific tests as neededYou retake only the test you didn't pass
How scores are used
States use Praxis scores to admit candidates to teacher preparation and to issue teaching licenses/certifications. Some institutions require them for program entry or completion. Requirements differ by state, so your state's education department is the authority.
Accommodations & support
Accommodations for documented disabilities are available through ETS — request them ahead of your test date.
Frequently asked questions
- Which Praxis tests do I need?It depends on your state and the grade/subject you'll teach — check your state's certification rules.
- What's a passing score?Each state sets its own passing scores.
- Is Praxis used everywhere?Many states use it, but some have their own tests (e.g., a state-specific licensure exam) — verify locally.
- What's the difference between Core and Subject tests?Core is basic skills (often to enter teacher prep); Subject tests cover your teaching content.
- Can I retake just one test?Yes — you retake only the test you didn't pass.
Key facts
- WhatTeacher certification tests (ETS)
- PartsCore (skills) · Subject Assessments · PLT (pedagogy)
- Passing scoreSet by each state
- FormatComputer-based, year-round
- Used forEntering teacher prep & licensure
Where to learn more
Confirm your state's requirements and current details: