Praxis II Directory for Educational Testing Service (ETS) Latest Update

The Praxis II exams, which are now known as the Praxis Subject Assessments, are a series of tests administered by Educational Testing Service (ETS) that assess the knowledge and skills required for teaching specific subjects. These assessments are widely used by states across the U.S. to determine whether a candidate is qualified for certification in the education field. They are an essential component of the teacher licensure process and are designed to ensure that prospective educators possess the subject-specific expertise required to teach effectively.

Overview of the Praxis II (Praxis Subject Assessments)

The Praxis II, or Praxis Subject Assessments, cover a broad range of subjects, including elementary education, secondary education, special education, and other specialized teaching fields. These tests are primarily used to evaluate an individual’s knowledge and understanding of a specific subject area, along with their teaching ability.

These assessments are particularly significant for individuals aiming to enter the teaching profession in the United States, as many states require successful completion of one or more Praxis tests as a condition for obtaining teacher certification or licensure. The Praxis II exams, in combination with other certification requirements, help ensure that teachers are well-equipped to teach students effectively.

Structure of Praxis II Exams

The Praxis II exams assess both content knowledge and pedagogical knowledge, depending on the subject. The tests are designed to provide a comprehensive evaluation of an individual’s ability to teach the subject effectively. For example, elementary education candidates may be required to demonstrate knowledge in subjects such as reading, writing, mathematics, and social studies, while secondary education candidates may need to show proficiency in their chosen subject, such as English, science, or history.

The structure of each exam varies based on the specific subject, but generally, the tests consist of multiple-choice questions and constructed-response questions (essays). Some exams may include case studies, scenarios, or other tasks that test a candidate’s ability to apply their knowledge in practical teaching situations.

There are also specialty tests that focus on specific fields, such as music, physical education, and foreign languages. These exams are designed to evaluate a candidate’s deep understanding of the subject matter and their ability to teach it in a classroom setting.

Test Availability and Scheduling

Candidates wishing to take the Praxis II exams must schedule their test in advance. The tests are offered throughout the year at various locations across the United States. For many tests, candidates can also choose to take them remotely from their own home using ETS’s at-home testing option, which has become increasingly popular in recent years, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The availability of test dates and testing locations is subject to the testing center’s schedule, and test-takers are encouraged to register early to secure their preferred date and location. In addition to in-person testing centers, the at-home testing option allows for greater flexibility for test-takers who may not have convenient access to a testing center.

The scheduling process can be done online through the official ETS Praxis website, where candidates can select their preferred test date, location, and the specific test they wish to take. Candidates are required to create a Praxis account, which they will use to register for exams, check scores, and access preparation materials. Test-takers may also be required to upload a photo or verify their identity to ensure that they meet ETS’s security standards.

Test Registration Process

Test registration for the Praxis II exams is conducted through the ETS Praxis website. Candidates must create an ETS account if they do not already have one. After logging in, candidates can search for the specific test they need to take, view available dates and locations, and complete the registration process.

In addition to online registration, candidates have the option to register by phone for a fee of $35. However, phone registration is only available for U.S.-based testing centers. For those who prefer to register by mail, ETS also provides a mail-in registration option, though this may take longer to process and confirm. Online registration is the most efficient and recommended method.

It is important for candidates to review their state’s certification requirements before registering for a Praxis test. Each state has different testing requirements, which may include specific Praxis Subject Assessments and minimum score requirements. Candidates should ensure they register for the correct test(s) to meet their state’s certification criteria.

State-Specific Requirements

Every state in the U.S. has its own specific certification requirements for teachers, and these requirements may include passing one or more Praxis exams. In some cases, states may have additional requirements beyond the Praxis exams, such as coursework, teaching experience, or professional development activities.

To help candidates navigate state-specific requirements, ETS provides an online tool that allows individuals to search for the certification requirements for their state. This tool helps prospective educators determine which Praxis exams they need to take and what the passing scores are for each test.

It is important to note that while most states require Praxis exams for teacher certification, there are a few states that have their own assessments or do not require testing for certification at all. Candidates should always check with their state’s Department of Education or licensing board to ensure they meet the necessary requirements for licensure.

Preparation for Praxis II Exams

Preparing for the Praxis II exams is crucial for success, and ETS provides a variety of resources to help candidates study for the tests. One of the primary preparation resources offered by ETS is the Praxis Study Companion, a free downloadable guide that provides an overview of each test, including test content, question types, and sample questions. The study companion is an excellent starting point for candidates who are preparing for the exams.

In addition to the study companion, ETS also offers full-length practice tests that simulate the real exam. These practice tests are designed to help candidates become familiar with the format and question types they will encounter on the actual test. They are available for purchase on the ETS Praxis website and provide a valuable tool for those seeking additional practice before their exam date.

There are also a number of other third-party resources, such as test prep books, online courses, and study groups, that candidates can use to supplement their preparation. It is advisable for candidates to develop a study plan and allocate enough time to thoroughly review the content and practice their test-taking skills.

Recent Policy Updates

ETS continuously updates its policies to enhance the test-taking experience and ensure the security and integrity of the Praxis exams. For example, as of June 1, 2024, candidates taking the Speech-Language Pathology (5331) or Audiology (5343) exams via live remote proctoring (at-home testing) will no longer be allowed to take unscheduled breaks during their exam. This change is intended to reduce disruptions and maintain the integrity of the testing environment.

Candidates taking these exams from home must complete the test in one sitting, without interruptions. Any unscheduled break during the exam will result in immediate invalidation of the test, ineligibility for a refund, and a mandatory 28-day waiting period before the candidate is eligible to retake the exam.

This policy change underscores the importance of being well-prepared for the exam and ensuring that candidates are able to complete their test without unnecessary delays. Candidates should review the latest test policies and procedures before their exam to avoid any misunderstandings.

Conclusion

The Praxis II exams, now called the Praxis Subject Assessments, are an essential part of the teacher certification process for many states across the U.S. These exams are designed to evaluate the knowledge and skills of prospective educators and ensure they are prepared to teach effectively in their chosen subject area. By understanding the structure of the tests, the registration process, state-specific requirements, and preparation resources, candidates can successfully navigate the certification process and become qualified teachers. Staying up to date on the latest policy updates and following best practices for preparation will help test-takers achieve their goals and contribute to the education system in a meaningful way.