NES – Practice Test & Information [Updated 2019]

Are you looking for NES exam information?

Well, you’ve come to the right place!

We have all the info and details about the exams, including NES study guides and more.

• Essential Academic Skills: Reading
• Essential Academic Skills: Writing
• Essential Academic Skills: Mathematics
• Assessment of Professional Knowledge: Elementary
• Assessment of Professional Knowledge: Secondary
• Elementary Education
  • Elementary Education Subtest I
  • Elementary Education Subtest II
• Mathematics
• Middle Grades English Language Arts
• Middles Grades General Science
• Middle Grades Mathematics
• Middle Grades Social Science
• English to Speakers of Other Languages

NES information obtained from the National Evaluation Series website: http://www.nestest.com/Home.aspx

What are the NES exams?

NES stands for National Evaluation Series. Some states use NES exams for teacher certification testing. These states are currently accepting NES test scores for certification:

• Arizona
• California
• Illinois
• New Mexico
• Oregon
• Washington
• Wisconsin

The NES is created and administered by the Evaluation Systems group of Pearson.

Who takes a NES exam?

Any person seeking educator certification (entry-level) in NES-required states must take and pass the necessary NES exams.

Check with your state agency responsible for educator certification to see if you are required to take a NES exam.

When and where do I take a NES exam?

NES exams are offered year-round at various times and locations.

For more information about test dates and sites, click here.

What are the NES test fees?

NES test fees vary by exam, but most are $95.

For exam-specific test fees, click here.

How are NES exams structured?

NES exams are computer-based tests (CBT). All of the exams are multiple-choice, but a few also include constructed-response, case study, or work product questions.

What do I need to bring to the test center?

You must bring one current, government-issued ID document (with your photograph and signature) in English. Make sure your name on your identification matches the name in which you registered.

How long are the NES exams?

Session length varies by exam.

For exam-specific session lengths, click here.

Can I use a calculator on a NES exam?

Some NES exams provide an on-screen calculator.

What are the testing policies for the NES exams?  

The testing policies for the NES vary by exam. Take a look at your specific exam here.

How are the NES exams scored?

Each test or subtest is scored on a scale from 100 to 300. Passing scores vary by state. Click here to find out about the passing score for a specific exam.

For tests with multiple-choice questions only, scores are provided immediately. Official score reports are released within 2 weeks after testing.

For tests with constructed-response questions, scores are released within 4 weeks after testing.

How do I pass a NES exam?

To pass a NES exam, you must first understand what is on the exam and what you will be expected to know. The best way is to review the 240Tutoring test breakdown materials and practice questions. Once you identify areas of weakness, you can begin targeting those areas with instructional content and practice questions.

Can I retake a NES exam? 

Yes, you can retake a NES exam, but you have to wait 30 days in between testing sessions. 

How do I register for a NES exam?

You can register online for a NES exam right here.

NES Practice Test and Study Material

You have access to very basic preparation materials through Pearson; however, these materials are very limited and do not address the exam content in depth (which is what you need to be successful). Take a look at those materials here.

For more thorough preparation, use trusted resources like 240Tutoring to learn and explore content, review practice questions, and take full-length practice exams.