What this page covers

This guide covers everything you need to prepare for the Praxis — what the tests are, how they're scored, what registration costs, how to study effectively, and what to do after you get your results. If you're starting Praxis prep, start here.

Preparing for the Praxis is one of the most important steps in your teacher certification journey. This guide cuts through the noise and gives you a clear, verified path from exam selection to passing score.

What Is The Praxis️ Test?

The Praxis tests are a series of teacher certification exams developed by ETS (Educational Testing Service). They measure academic skills and subject-specific knowledge required for K–12 teaching licensure in most U.S. states. There are two main categories: Praxis Core (foundational academic skills) and Praxis Subject Assessments (content-area knowledge).

Most states require one or more Praxis exams before granting an initial teaching license. The specific tests required depend on the state and the grade level or subject area you plan to teach.

How Hard Is the Praxis?

Pass rates vary widely by exam — some subject tests have first-attempt pass rates below 50%. The Praxis Core is generally considered moderate in difficulty for college graduates, while subject assessments can be significantly more challenging depending on content depth.

The most common reason candidates fail is underestimating how specific the content knowledge needs to be. Multiple-choice questions are written to test precise understanding, not general familiarity.

Praxis Scoring: What You Need to Pass

Passing scores are set by each state, not ETS. Most states require a score between 155 and 175 on a 100–200 scale for Praxis Subject Assessments.

The Praxis Core has a range of 100–200, with passing thresholds typically around 156 (Reading), 162 (Writing), and 150 (Math), though these vary by state.

ExamScore RangeTypical Passing Score
Praxis Core Reading (5713)100–200156 (varies by state)
Praxis Core Writing (5723)100–200162 (varies by state)
Praxis Core Math (5733)100–200150 (varies by state)
Praxis Subject Assessments100–200155–175 (varies by state & exam)

⚠ Verify your state's passing score: Passing scores are set by your state, not ETS. Always check your state's current requirements at ets.org/praxis or your state's department of education website before registering.

How to Register for the Praxis

Register for Praxis tests at praxis.ets.org. Create or log in to an ETS account, select your exam, choose a test date and location (or remote testing), and pay the registration fee. Most exams cost between $90 and $160.

Test centers are available in most cities, and remote proctoring (ProctorU) is available for most exams.

Register at least 30 days before your desired test date to ensure seat availability.

⚠ Verify current fees: Registration fees are subject to change. Confirm pricing at ets.org/praxis before registering.

How to Study for the Praxis

The most effective Praxis study strategy is: (1) take a diagnostic practice test to identify your weakest domains (2) review content aligned to the official ETS test framework and (3) complete timed practice to build test-day pacing. Most candidates need 4–8 weeks of consistent prep.

Download the official test framework from praxis.ets.org for your specific exam.

This document lists every content category and competency you'll be tested on. The 240 Tutoring Praxis study guide maps directly to this framework, so every lesson has a clear test-day purpose.

Praxis Resources from 240 Tutoring

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Praxis test?

The Praxis tests are ETS-developed exams required for teacher licensure in most U.S. states. They include the Praxis Core (foundational skills) and Praxis Subject Assessments (content knowledge).

What is a passing score on the Praxis?
Passing scores are set by each state. For Praxis Subject Assessments, most states require between 155 and 175 on a 100–200 scale. Verify your state’s requirement at ets.org/praxis.
How much does the Praxis cost?
Most Praxis tests cost between $90 and $160. The Praxis Core combined exam (5752) is $150. Fees are subject to change — verify at ets.org/praxis.
How long does the Praxis take?
Test length varies by exam. The Praxis Core combined exam takes 4 hours 35 minutes. Most subject assessments are 2–3 hours. Check the specific timing on ets.org for your exam.
What happens if I fail the Praxis?
You may retake any Praxis exam after a 21-day waiting period. You’ll pay the registration fee again. Use your score report to focus prep on your lowest-performing content categories.
When do Praxis scores come out?
Most Praxis scores are available within 10–16 days of your test date. Constructed-response exams may take longer. You’ll be notified by email when your score report is ready.