The Praxis Toolkit

The Praxis matters because it's frequently a required checkpoint on the road to becoming a licensed teacher. Published by ETS (the nonprofit behind the GRE and TOEFL), the Praxis is a family of standardized tests that state boards of education use to verify that teacher candidates have the academic skills, subject-matter knowledge, and pedagogical understanding needed to teach. For most future teachers, you'll encounter it at one or two key moments (§07): often you need to pass the Praxis Core to be admitted into a teacher-preparation program, and then pass subject and/or pedagogy tests before you're licensed to teach. Passing a certification exam is a basic requirement in every state (though the specific tests vary, and some states use non-Praxis exams, §19). Two things are essential to understand from the outset. First, which Praxis tests you need — and the passing scores — depend entirely on your state (and the license you're pursuing), so you must check your specific requirements (§07). Second — and reassuringly — the Praxis is a very achievable test: with a clear understanding of what's on it, a solid study plan, and quality preparation, the large majority of prepared candidates pass. This toolkit will help you approach it with clarity and confidence rather than dread. Always confirm the details at the official ETS Praxis site. See our Teacher Certification toolkit.

The most important thing to grasp first is that the Praxis is not a single exam — it's a whole family (or 'catalog') of standardized tests published by ETS, and different candidates take different ones. It evolved from the older National Teacher Examinations and has been around since the 1990s. ETS organizes the tests into a few groups: Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators — measuring foundational reading, writing, and math skills that all teachers need regardless of subject (§04); Praxis Subject Assessments — measuring content knowledge in your specific teaching area, with over 90 different subject tests (§05); and the Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) — measuring general pedagogical knowledge (how students learn, instruction, assessment, professionalism), offered in grade-band versions (§06). There are also specialized tests like the elementary Content Knowledge for Teaching (CKT) assessments. Crucially, most candidates encounter the Praxis at two distinct moments: first, before being admitted into a college/program of education (many require passing Core as part of the application), and second, near graduation or during student teaching, when you sit for the subject and pedagogy tests required for your license. Depending on your state and license, you might take one, some, or all of these. So the first step in your Praxis journey is figuring out which specific tests apply to you (§07) — then you can focus your energy precisely. See the ETS Praxis site for the full catalog.

The Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators (formerly 'Praxis I') is the foundational test of the family, and often the first one you'll take. It measures the basic academic skills every teacher needs regardless of what or whom they'll teach, across three areas: Reading (comprehending and analyzing written passages), Writing (grammar, usage, and sentence structure, plus an essay — you'll read two short passages and write an argumentative or informative response), and Mathematics (covering numbers and quantities, algebra and geometry, and data and statistics — roughly 56 questions split fairly evenly across those areas). Several key facts help you plan: the Core is three separate tests, which you can take individually in any order or combined in one sitting (usually at a discount); it's most often required for admission into a teacher-preparation program (as well as, in some states, for licensure); notably, some states accept high SAT or ACT scores as an alternative to the Core, so check whether you even need it (§07, §19); and it's computer-based and offered year-round at test centers or online. The Core is a general-skills test, so if your reading, writing, and math are solid, targeted review and practice go a long way. Free official Core prep is available through Khan Academy (in partnership with ETS) — a fantastic resource (§12). See the ETS Praxis site for current Core details.

The Praxis Subject Assessments (part of what was called 'Praxis II') measure your content knowledge in the specific subject and grade level you intend to teach — ensuring you know your material deeply enough to teach it. The defining feature: there are over 90 different subject tests, spanning nearly every teaching area imaginable — Elementary Education, English/Language Arts, Mathematics, the sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics), Social Studies, World Languages, Music, Art, Physical Education, Special Education, School Counseling, Library Science, and many more. You take the specific assessment(s) that align with the license or endorsement you're pursuing (which your state and program specify, §07). A few important notes: Subject Assessments are generally considered more challenging than the Core, because they test in-depth, specialized knowledge (and sometimes how to teach that content, not just the content itself); you'll typically take them near graduation or during student teaching, as a licensure requirement; and elementary education candidates often take a multi-subject test covering reading/language arts, math, science, and social studies (sometimes as separate subtests), or the related Content Knowledge for Teaching (CKT) assessments. Because these test your major and specialty, your teacher-prep coursework is much of your preparation — supplemented by targeted study of the specific test's content (§11–§13). Find your exact test and its content at the ETS Praxis site.

The Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) is the Praxis family's pedagogy test — it measures your general professional teaching knowledge (how to teach effectively) rather than your command of a subject. It's built around five content categories: Students as Learners (development, learning theory, diversity, motivation), the Instructional Process (planning, strategies, questioning, technology), Assessment (types, uses, and interpretation), Professional Development, Leadership & Community (reflection, collaboration, families, ethics/law), and Analysis of Instructional Scenarios. A distinctive feature is its format: the PLT includes both selected-response (multiple-choice) questions and constructed-response (essay) questions based on case histories — realistic classroom scenarios you analyze and respond to (so it tests applied pedagogical thinking, not just recall). Key facts: the PLT comes in four grade-band versions — Early Childhood, K–6, 5–9, and 7–12 (plus a Special Education version) — and you take the one matching the license you seek; it's required by many states alongside the Subject Assessment (§07); and it runs about two hours. Because the PLT tests the craft of teaching, your education coursework (on development, instruction, assessment, and classroom management) is your foundation — reinforced by studying the specific categories and, crucially, practicing the case-study essay questions (§11–§13). Confirm your required PLT version at the ETS Praxis site.

Once you've identified your required tests (§07), you register through ETS (on the official Praxis website, where you create an account). Here's what to know. Cost (approximate, and subject to change — always confirm current fees): the Core is about $90 per test or ~$150 for all three combined; Subject Assessments range widely, roughly $50 to $200 depending on the test (many around $120–$156, sometimes combinable for a discount); and the PLT is about $150. Importantly, fee waivers are available for eligible test-takers receiving financial aid — if money is a barrier, look into this (through ETS/your program). Watch for additional fees too (e.g., registering by phone, changing your registration, or ordering extra score reports beyond those included). Scheduling and logistics: the Praxis is computer-based and offered year-round, and you can typically choose between a test center or at-home online-proctored testing (each has its own requirements — for at-home, you'll need a suitable quiet space, equipment, and to follow strict proctoring rules). The key scheduling tip: register early enough to give yourself adequate study time before your test date (don't cram, and don't schedule so far out that you lose momentum), and make sure you'll have your scores in time for your program or licensure deadlines (§10). Handle registration through the official ETS Praxis site.

Knowing the format of your specific Praxis test before test day eliminates unwelcome surprises and lets you practice realistically. In general: Praxis tests are computer-delivered (taken on a computer at a test center or via at-home online proctoring), timed, and composed mostly of selected-response (multiple-choice) questions — though several tests (notably Core Writing and the PLT) also include constructed-response (essay) questions, and the PLT's essays are based on case scenarios (§06). The critical point is that each Praxis test has its own specific content, length, question count, and format — Core Math has ~56 questions; the PLT mixes multiple-choice and essays over ~2 hours; a given Subject Assessment has its own structure — so you should look up the exact 'test at a glance' details for your test on the ETS site (number and types of questions, time limit, content categories and their weightings, and any on-screen tools like a permitted calculator). Then practice in the real format: do timed, computer-based practice that mirrors the actual test (not just casual flashcards), so the pacing, question style, and interface feel familiar on test day (§13). Understanding format is part of preparation — candidates who know exactly what to expect walk in calmer and perform better. Find your test's format at the ETS Praxis site.

Understanding scoring and passing scores lets you set a clear target and know exactly what you're aiming for. How scoring works: each Praxis test yields a scaled score within a defined range; multiple-choice questions are scored automatically, while essays are scored by trained raters using rubrics. You'll receive a score report that usually also breaks down your performance by content category (useful if you need to retake — you'll see where you were weak, §16). A helpful mechanic: there's generally no penalty for wrong answers, so you should answer every question, even if you must guess (§15). Now the single most important scoring fact: passing scores are set by each individual state, not by ETS — which means the same Praxis test can require a different passing score depending on where you seek licensure. So you must know your state's exact required passing score for each test (§07) and aim comfortably above it (don't target the bare minimum — give yourself a margin). You'll also need to send your scores to your state and/or teacher-prep program (a certain number of score reports is typically included in your registration fee; additional ones cost extra), so designate the right recipients when you register or afterward. Know your target, aim high, and route your scores correctly. Confirm passing scores with your state board and the ETS Praxis site.

You have excellent preparation resources available — many of them free — so there's no need to go it alone or reinvent the wheel. Start with the official and free options: the ETS Praxis website offers free study companions, official practice tests, interactive practice, and detailed information for each test (the authoritative source on what's actually covered); and — a standout — Khan Academy offers completely FREE official Praxis Core prep, developed in partnership with ETS, covering reading, writing, and math with lessons and practice (an outstanding resource for the Core, §04). Your teacher-preparation program is also a major asset — your coursework is much of your subject and pedagogy preparation, and many programs provide additional Praxis support, advising, and workshops. Beyond the free options, paid resources can help if you want more structure: reputable Praxis prep books and study guides, online prep courses and question banks, and tutoring or study groups (helpful if you struggle with a particular area or with self-directed study). Whatever you use, choose materials that are current, reputable, and specific to your exact test (Praxis content updates over time, and the tests differ sharply, so generic or outdated materials can mislead). A mix of the free official resources plus targeted practice is enough for most candidates to pass. Free Core prep is at Khan Academy; official materials at the ETS Praxis site.

If you don't pass a Praxis test on the first attempt, here's the most important message: don't panic, and don't be discouraged — retaking is common, and many people pass on a later attempt. Not passing the first time doesn't mean you won't be a great teacher; it means you need more targeted preparation. You can retake the Praxis after a required waiting period (ETS sets a minimum time between attempts on the same test — check the current policy), and there's no shame in it. The key to a successful retake is to approach it smartly rather than just repeating what didn't work. First, use your score report: it typically shows your performance by content category, revealing exactly where you fell short — which is invaluable information. Then target those weak areas specifically (don't re-study everything equally — concentrate on your lowest-scoring categories), study differently than before (if your approach didn't work, change it — more practice questions, a different resource, a study group, or tutoring), and do more practice in the real test format (§09, §13). Also reflect on why you fell short (content gaps? timing? test anxiety? essay structure?) and address that specific issue. Most candidates who retake with a focused, revised plan pass — you're often closer than you think. Treat a retake as a solvable challenge, not a verdict. Check retake policies at the ETS Praxis site.

Passing your required Praxis tests is a genuine milestone worth celebrating — but it's important to see it in context: the Praxis is one requirement among several on the path to a teaching license, so here's how it fits into the bigger picture. First, make sure your scores reach the right places — your state licensing board and your teacher-preparation program (designate them as score recipients through ETS if you haven't already). Then recognize that certification typically requires more than passing the Praxis: usually you must also complete your degree and teacher-prep program, finish student teaching, pass a background check, and submit a licensure application (with its fees and paperwork) — the exact requirements set by your state. So the Praxis is a box to check alongside these others. Once you've met all your state's requirements, you apply for your teaching license/certification (through your state), and you're officially credentialed to teach. Practical tips for this stage: keep good records of your Praxis scores and all your credentials (you may need them for applications, other states, or renewals), and — with the Praxis behind you — turn your attention to the job search (landing the teaching job itself, which our Job & Interview Tips for Educators toolkit covers in depth). You've cleared a real hurdle — now finish the path to the classroom. See our Teacher Certification toolkit for the full licensure process.

Praxis candidates tend to stumble in a handful of predictable, avoidable ways — knowing them helps you sidestep them. The most consequential early mistake is not confirming exactly which tests your state and license require (§07) — leading some to register for the wrong test, the wrong grade band, or a test they didn't even need (wasting time and money). Another common error is underestimating the Praxis and not studying enough — especially the challenging Subject Assessments — or cramming at the last minute instead of preparing steadily over weeks (§11). Many candidates also skip realistic practice tests (§09, §13), so the format and timing catch them off guard on test day, or they neglect the essay portions until it's too late to practice writing under time pressure (§13, §15). Two more: targeting only the bare-minimum passing score (leaving no margin for a bad day — aim comfortably above it, §10), and missing deadlines — registering too late, or not getting scores to a program or licensure office in time (§08). The thread connecting the fixes: confirm your requirements, prepare early and realistically, practice in the true format, and stay on top of deadlines. Avoid these pitfalls, and you remove most of what stands between prepared candidates and a passing score.

An essential caveat that ties this whole toolkit together: the Praxis is widely used, but it is NOT universal, and requirements vary enormously — so you must always verify what applies to your specific state and license rather than assume. While many states use the Praxis for some or all of their teacher-testing requirements, some states use entirely different exams — state-specific licensure tests or other test families like the National Evaluation Series (NES) (for example, Minnesota uses the NES/MTLE, and other states have their own systems). Additionally, some states accept high SAT or ACT scores in place of the Praxis Core (§04), meaning you might not need the Core at all. Beyond content tests, many candidates encounter performance assessments — most notably edTPA, a portfolio-based assessment of actual teaching (with lesson plans, video of your teaching, and reflections) that a number of states or programs require in addition to or instead of certain Praxis tests. And some subjects, grade levels, or endorsements carry additional required tests. The practical takeaway is the same one that runs throughout this toolkit: check your state's board of education / licensure requirements (and consult your teacher-prep program) to learn exactly which tests — Praxis or otherwise — you need, and the passing scores. Requirements also change over time, so verify current information. Your state board is the definitive source. See our Teacher Certification toolkit.

For preparation, the official ETS Praxis site (ets.org/praxis) is the authoritative source for test information, study companions, and practice tests, and Khan Academy offers free official Praxis Core prep — but your state licensure board is the definitive source for which tests and passing scores you need, and your teacher-prep program is a key ally. NEA offers broader career guidance. Keep the through-line in view: the Praxis is a passable gateway; know exactly which tests your state requires; a clear study plan and quality prep are everything; and always verify specifics with ETS and your state board. Explore teacher-prep programs and colleges in our directory, and pair this with our Teacher Certification and Job & Interview Tips toolkits. Start at K12academics.com.

Editable versions of these guides are available on request — see §26, Stay Connected.