Yes indeed, aspiring educators in Georgia – teachers sometimes need to take tests too. If you’re on your way to becoming a teacher in Georgia, you’ll need to get familiar with the Georgia Assessments for the Certification of Educators (GACE).
So, we’re here to explain everything you need to know about the GACE. We’ll cover what it is, the specific exams you’ll need to take, and how to get started. Plus, we’ll talk about costs, how to register, and share some great study tips. Let’s break down the GACE tests and set you up for success.
What Is the GACE Test?
The Georgia Assessments for the Certification of Educators (GACE) is the official program perspective teachers use to get their certification in Georgia.
The purpose of the GACE tests is to make sure all Georgia teachers have the knowledge and skills to be quality teachers. Anyone looking to become a teacher in Georgia must pass the required GACE exam, so these tests are pretty important.
The GACE tests are categorized into several types, including Basic Skills, Professional Pedagogy, and Content Assessments, each targeting different skill sets and knowledge areas.
Exams typically feature a mix of multiple-choice and constructed-response questions.
The multiple-choice section tests your knowledge and understanding of a subject, while the constructed-response questions assess your ability to apply that knowledge in practical, real-world teaching scenarios.
The amount of time allocated for each GACE test varies depending on its complexity and length. Generally, candidates can expect to spend anywhere from one to four hours on a test.
What are the Different Types of GACE Tests?
The GACE tests are broken down into five different categories: Content, Certificate Upgrade, Educational Leadership, Georgia Ethics, and Paraprofessional
| Assessment Type | About the Assessment |
| Content | Most people who want to be a teacher inGeorgia will be taking a content assessment. Content assessments test your knowledge in a specific subject or certification area (e.g., math or history). These assessments will include one of two multiple-choice questions, and some will include constructed-response questions (CRQ) |
| Certificate Upgrade | Those interested in obtaining professional certificates in the Curriculum and Instruction and/or Instructional Technology fields must take an assessment to prove their knowledge in those areas. Each assessment includes one test with selected-response questions and three or four constructed-response assignments. |
| Educational Leadership | Suppose you want to be an educational leader in Georgia public schools. In that case, you will have your knowledge and skills tested with the Educational Leadership exam. It’s one big test with multiple-choice questions and four constructed response questions. |
| Georgia Ethics | Georgia offers an assessment whose sole purpose is to help teachers become familiar with and use the Georgia Code of Ethics for Educators. This assessment includes instructional material and the ability to test your knowledge at the end of each module. |
| Paraprofessional | If you want to become a paraprofessional in Georgia, you must pass the paraprofessional assessment. The test includes only multiple-choice questions. You will be tested on your reading, writing, and basic math knowledge and your ability to effectively use those skills in the classroom. |
Which GACE Test Do I Have to Take?
The GACE exam you need depends on your grade level and subject area. Most candidates need a Content Assessment in their certification field plus the Georgia Ethics Assessment. Check the GACE website to confirm the specific requirements for your certification type.
To figure out which GACE tests to take, start by thinking about which teaching area you want to be certified in.
If you’re entering a teacher preparation program, you’ll need to pass the GACE Program Admission Assessment. This test checks your basic skills in mathematics, reading, and writing. Some may have the option to bypass this test if they have high enough scores on the SAT or other approved standardized tests.
For future teachers of specific content areas or grade levels, you’ll take one or more GACE Content Assessments. These are designed to verify your subject knowledge and pedagogical skills.
Early Childhood and Elementary Education
Early childhood and elementary educators will focus on tests like the GACE Elementary Education (P–5) or the GACE Special Education General Curriculum—Elementary Education (P–5) exams.
Aspiring middle school teachers should choose among tests tailored to that level, including Middle Grades Science, Math, Reading, and Language Arts Tests. And for subject-specific teaching positions, like those in high school or specialized educational roles, you’ll find a GACE Content Assessment that matches your area of expertise, be it Agriculture, Computer Science, or a World Language, to name a few.
Special Education
Special education teachers have a suite of tests to choose from, depending on the curriculum they aim to teach. This includes the GACE Special Education Adapted Curriculum (P–12), GACE Special Education Academic Content Concentrations (Mathematics and Science) (P–8) and others focusing on specific academic subjects.
Paraprofessional
If you’re a paraprofessional, such as a teacher’s assistant, the GACE Paraprofessional Assessment is the one for you. It assesses essential skills in reading, writing, and math, ensuring you’re equipped to support student learning.
Certificate Upgrade
And if you’re looking to upgrade your certification or move into an educational leadership role, there are GACE Certificate Upgrade Tests for areas like Curriculum and Instruction or Educational Leadership.
Georgia Ethics Assessments
The GACE Georgia Ethics Assessments are also required for both new teachers and administrators. These are two-part tests, with an entry and exit exam, associated with the mandatory training program in educator ethics.
Find Your GACE Study Guide
Popular GACE Study Guides
Registration for the GACE Test
In order to register for a GACE test you must create your MyPSC account, recieve test approval from your preparation program, create your Evaluation Systems GACE testing account on the GACE webstie, then you can finish the step to register for your test and submit payment. Note registerign for your test is a separate process from scheduling your test appointment. You can schedule your test appointment at the same time as your register or at a later date.
Registering for the GACE can be done both online or over the phone. Here’s what you need to know to get on the list:
For Online Registration
Make sure you’ve got your testing approval from your MyPSC account. This gives you the GA CERT ID that you need for registering. Then, pop in your GA CERT ID, full name, date of birth, and Social Security number. You’ll see a list of tests you can take – choose the ones you’re approved for. After you register, you’ll get a confirmation email. Go over it carefully to make sure everything is correct.
If You Prefer Registering by Phone
Dial 1-855-225-7178. They’re on the line Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET. Keep in mind that you, the test-taker, have to be the one to make the call.
How Much Does the GACE Cost?
The cost of your GACE test depends on which test you take. GACE test costs range from $30 to $263. For example the Paraprofessional test is $49.99, while the Educational Leadership test cost $263. Most of the Content Assessments cost $169.
Each GACE test has its own fee, which usually includes the cost of registration and any test center charges. Some tests might have extra fees, like the ASLPI. If you need to retake a test, keep in mind there’s a 30-day waiting period (28 days for the Paraprofessional Exam) and you’ll have to pay the same fee again. Be sure to learn these costs early on so you can plan your budget.
The cost of your GACE test will vary depending on the specific tests you are taking. Check the table below to determine how much each type of GACE test costs:
| Type of Test | Costs |
| Content Assessments | $84-$263 (single testlets range from $28.50 to $88) |
| Literacy Assessments | $90 |
| Certificate Upgrade | $263 |
| Leadership Assements | $263 |
| Paraprofessional | $49 |
Each price includes a $25 registration fee and a $28 test center fee.
You can find detailed information about the GACE test fees on the official GACE website.
Other Fees to Consider
If you have to change your test location, date, or time, there’s a fee for that.
Canceling a test? You can get half your test fee back if you cancel at least three days before your test.
Taking the GACE outside the U.S.? There’s an additional fee for international testing locations.
How to Prepare for the GACE Test
The most effective GACE prep strategy is: (1) take a diagnostic practice test to find your weakest competencies, (2) study content aligned to the official GaPSC study companion for your specific exam, and (3) aim for the Professional level score if possible — it takes little extra effort but opens more doors. Most candidates need 4–8 weeks of consistent prep.
Preparing for the GACE requires a well-structured approach to ensure you’re ready for the exam. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide to help you leverage effective study habits and ensure that you pass the GACE:
Get to Know Your GACE Exam
Start with a thorough understanding of your specific GACE test. Pick a study guide that mirrors the GACE content. A good guide not only covers the material but also includes practice questions.
Personalize Your Study Plan
Identify topics where you need improvement and allocate extra study time to those areas. Be sure to also establish a regular study routine to stay connected with the material.
Practice, Practice, Practice
Regularly take practice tests to get used to the exam’s style and improve your time management skills.
Understanding Your GACE Scores
For most assessments, scores are reported using a range from 100 to 300. The passing score is either 220 or 250, depending on the assessment. For the GACE Ethics for Teachers and GACE Ethics for Leaders assessments, scores are reported as a percentage.
For the most GACE exams, you will receive two score reports after completing your exam
- Comprehensive Assessment Report
- Testlet Performance Report
The Comprehensive Assessment Report will show you how you did on the exam as a whole.
It will let you know whether you passed the exam, show you your best scores for each testlet, and show you how many total points you accumulated.
Your Testlet Performance Report will tell you what you scored on each testlet and whether or not you met the floor for that testlet. You can see that from the example above.
The report will also break down how you did on each objective for each testlet.
This will help you identify how you fared on each objective, and if you did not pass the testlet, it can help you understand where to focus your study efforts if you have to retake that testlet.
After taking your GACE exam, you will receive a receipt of completion.
You will receive your official score report on your projected delivery date. You will need to check the GACE website to see the score report dates for your exam.
Retakes and Next Steps After the GACE
You can retake any GACE exam after a 30-day waiting period (28 days for the Paraprofessional Assessment). There is no limit on the number of retake attempts. You'll pay the full registration fee again for each retake
If your first shot at the GACE doesn’t go as planned, you’ll be eligible to retake the exam. For most GACE exams, you need to wait 30 days before you can try again. The Paraprofessional exam is a bit different – you only wait 28 days. Keep in mind that you’ll need to sign up and pay the fees for the exam again. That’s why it’s a good idea to really buckle down and study hard to improve your odds of passing the next time around.
How to Boost Your Score for a Retake
Review Your Previous Attempt: Look at where you had trouble last time and zero in on those areas in your studies.
Use Study Resources: Resources like 240 Tutoring’s study guides, which come with practice questions and materials, can be a huge help.
Change Up Your Study Tactics: If you need a little extra help, consider getting a tutor or trying different study methods.
After You Pass The GACE: What Comes Next?
If you’ve passed the GACE, congratulations! That’s a big step towards becoming a certified teacher in Georgia! The next step will be applying for your teaching certification. This brings you one step closer to your dream of teaching and making a real difference in students’ lives. Cheers to your success and the bright journey ahead in your teaching career!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the GACE test?
The GACE (Georgia Assessments for the Certification of Educators) is the series of state-required certification exams for anyone who wants to teach in Georgia public schools, administered by Pearson VUE on behalf of the GaPSC.
What is a passing score on the GACE?
Scores for the GACE assessments are scaled from 100 to 300. The passing score is either 220 or 250, depending on the assessment.
How much does the GACE cost?
The cost of your GACE test depends on which test you take. GACE test costs range from $30 to $263. For example the Paraprofessional test is $49.99, while the Educational Leadership test cost $263. Most of the Content Assessments cost $169.
How hard is the GACE test?
Difficulty varies by exam and subject area. Candidates who study aligned to the official GaPSC study companion and take practice tests consistently tend to pass at significantly higher rates than those who don't.
How many times can you take the GACE?
There is no limit on retake attempts. You must wait 30 days between attempts (28 days for the Paraprofessional Assessment). You'll pay the registration fee again for each retake.
What GACE test do I need to become a teacher in Georgia?
Most candidates need a Content Assessment for their subject area plus the Georgia Ethics Assessment exam. The specific content exam depends on your grade level and certification area — check the GaPSC website for exact requirements.