Praxis II tests are also known as Subject Assessment Tests. These are required by many states and professional organizations in the U.S. in order for beginning teachers to obtain their teaching certification or licensing. The Praxis II was developed as a way to measure and assess a teacher's knowledge in certain subjects and to test for teaching skills.



Many colleges and universities also view Praxis II tests as an important evaluation of a would-be teacher's skills in the content area that they are planning on concentrating. Many teachers take the Praxis II tests in order to increase their list of qualifications.

Who takes the Praxis II tests?

Students normally register for and take the registered Praxis II tests before the completion of their undergraduate or graduate courses. Only 44 states require the Praxis series, although many colleges, universities and licensing agencies for professionals require these tests.

Where are Praxis II tests offered?

Testing locations are found in different regions and states throughout the U.S. for paper-based testing. While most of these test centers offer tests using the English language, there are also test centers that cater to students or beginning teachers whose principal language is not English.

There are three major categories in the Praxis II test. These are:

Subject Assessment Tests

Measure a teacher's specific content knowledge and consists of multiple choice tests and constructed response questionnaires.

Principles of Learning and Teaching Tests

Assess a teacher's pedagogic knowledge and skills for four specific age groups of students: early childhood, kindergarten to 6, 5 to 9 and 7 to 12. Consists of multiple choice tests and constructed response questionnaires using case studies.

Teaching Foundation

Assess a teacher's knowledge in English, Mathematics, Science, Social Science and Language Arts. Also consists of multiple choice tests and constructed response questionnaires.

Scoring the tests

The raw score on a multiple choice Praxis II test indicates the number of correct answers while the scores on the constructed response tests reflects the points given by the appointed test scorers. The test takers will receive their score report about four to six weeks after taking the exam. Additional score reports or ASR may also be requested for an extra fee.

The passing scores of the Praxis II tests are mandated by the state. If you want to know the score you need to obtain to get your initial teaching licensure, simply get in touch with your state's Department of Education or check out the Educational Testing Service website. The http://ETS.org website also includes information on which Praxis tests you may be required to take additionally as a requirement of the state you're planning to teach in.

Preparing for the Praxis II Tests

Preparing prior to taking the Praxis II tests is an important component of taking the tests successfully. It's recommended that you review books on your subject area, educational methods, techniques and psychology. Preparing and taking the tests can cost money so it's preferable that you invest only once in a successful attempt.

The Praxis II test is a paper-based test and is not available through computer testing. Registering for the test may be done online, however. Simply go to the http://ETS.org website for a list of schedules and to fill out the registration form.

Praxis II tests can last from one hour to four hours. If you prefer, you can take a combination of tests to save time. Some tutors and experienced educators, however, recommend that test takers keep to just 2 tests in 1 day, especially if you experience some anxiety or uncertainty.