Don't be Scared of the PRAXIS Test...
- Student Ambassadors
- 2 hours ago
- 3 min read
Rachel O'Malley
McKay Student Ambassador
Elementary Education
If you’re an education major, you’ve probably heard upperclassmen whisper and groan about the mysterious PRAXIS test. But don’t panic! This blog is your friendly guide to what the PRAXIS test is, why it matters, and how to feel confident walking in to take the test. Don’t worry, it’s not as scary as it sounds (well… maybe just a little).
What is the PRAXIS test
The PRAXIS test is basically a way to make sure you really understand the subjects you’ll be teaching; it’s all about testing your content knowledge. For Elementary Education and Early Childhood Education majors, you have to take the test regarding reading, language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. This test is required if you want to be eligible for graduation and licensure, as it is designed for the teaching majors and teaching minor(s). Also, for students who haven't completed the writing section of the ACT/SAT, they will need to complete the appropriate Praxis Test to make up for that.
How to Take it
To find out what tests you need to take, visit Utah Test Requirements and click on your respective teaching major area. These contain a list of all the Praxis Subject Assessments that are required. The Academic Advisors recommend taking the PRAXIS at the Global Testing Center because of the testing environment, minimal possibility of technology glitches, and it is super close to campus. Register at ETS.org. You can follow the instructions on this slide deck. The El Ed Praxis combined is $180, the EL ED Praxis, if taken individually, is $64 per section, and subtest retakes are also $64 per section.
You may be eligible to waive the fees of the Praxis! However, only a few waivers are awarded per test, so it is on a first come first serve basis. To see the requirements for receiving a waiver, click here. If you have any further questions about the Praxis' costs or waivers, contact the advisement center.
How to Practice
To prepare for the Praxis Test, you should start studying early, create study groups with your cohort, and attend the study nights put on by professors in the McKay School. The Praxis resource website is also a great place to find study guides and tips + tricks
For further questions about the Praxis, contact the advisement center and check out the Praxis website. The advisement center made this presentation with similar information.
EL ED PRAXIS Reading & Language Arts
EL ED PRAXIS Math
EL ED PRAXIS Social Studies
EL ED PRAXIS Science
My Personal Experience with the PRAXIS test
To get into the Elementary Education program my freshman year, I had to take the entire PRAXIS test because I did not have an SAT or ACT score. To prepare, I did lots of practice on Khan Academy and watched helpful videos. The test took hours to do, but felt really easy because I had practiced all week. Make sure to bring snacks and a coat because it is cold in the Global Testing Center. You have no need to worry, the test is simply making sure you know how to teach these subjects and it's not competitive. You need to pass a certain score, but if you study you will do great.
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