Frequently Asked Questions

A special registration bulletin was prepared for test-takers in Louisiana. Pick up your free copy in the Office of Student Services, 236 Peabody Hall. You may click here to see a copy which can be printed. (Note: you will leave this site.)

Why do I have to take The Praxis Series tests? These tests are required by state departments of education and by colleges and universities to measure the academic achievement and proficiency of individuals entering or completing teacher preparation programs.

Do all states require these tests? The Praxis Series tests are currently required in 35 states of the 43 that use tests as part of the teacher licensure process. These tests are also used by several professional licensing agencies and by several hundred colleges and universities. Because The Praxis Series tests are used to license teachers in many states, teacher candidates can test in one state and submit their scores for licensure in any other state that recognizes The Praxis Series.

Who creates The Praxis Series tests? The tests are developed by educators for educators. Advisory committees of distinguished teachers, teacher educators, key administrators, and professional organizations help determine test content and review, revise, and approve all questions and exercises. The Praxis Series is grounded in current research, including a complete job analysis of the most important tasks and skills required of beginning teachers and extensive surveys to confirm test validity.

What types of questions will I find on these tests? Praxis I: Academic Skills Assessments and Praxis II: Subject Assessments feature sophisticated multiple-choice questions and candidate-constructed responses that measure both breadth and depth of knowledge. Praxis III: Classroom Performance Assessments include essays, oral response tasks, listening tasks, portfolio reviews, video stimuli, and in-class observations.

How can I learn more about what's covered in each test? Anyone considering taking a test in The Praxis Series should spend some time reviewing the Tests at a Glance booklet in each relevant content area. Tests at a Glance booklets include content outlines, sample questions with rationale for the best answers, and test-taking strategies.

If I do not know the answer to some particular questions, should I leave them blank? No, you should not leave any question blank. You are not penalized for choosing an incorrect response, so it is better to make an educated guess than not to answer a question at all. If you do not know the answer to a question, narrow down the responses and pick one response that seems most likely to be correct. That will improve your chances of doing well on the test.

Can I still teach if do not pass the test? Typically, no. For answers to specific questions about certification requirements, go to the Louisiana State Department of Education Web site at http://www.doe.state.la.us/DOE/asps/home.asp?I=CERTIFICATION or contact Dr. Mary Helen McCoy, Assistant Director, mhmccoy@mail.doe.state.la.us, Division of Teacher Standards, Assessment and Certification, Louisiana Department of Education, P. O. Box 94064, Baton Rouge, LA 70804-9064, (225) 342-3490, fax:(225) 342-3499.

Do I have to score well or just pass this test in order to teach? In order to meet the testing requirement for a particular certification area, you are required to pass the test(s) in that area. Once you have passed a test, you are not required to take that test again. If two tests are required for your field, you must pass both. However, if you pass one test and not the other, you are only required to retake the test that you did not pass. Only passing scores will be reported to the Teacher Certification unit.

To access the information for a specific test, go first to Tests and Test Dates for a complete list of the assessments. Then find the specific test you're interested in and click on the test code number as it appears in that list.

The Tests at a Glance information is in the form of downloadable PDF files in Adobe® Acrobat® format. In order to view and print these files, you need Acrobat Reader software. See information on downloading Acrobat Reader software and configuring your browser.

After downloading the Acrobat Reader software and configuring your browser, you can access the information on a specific test by clicking on the test code number as it appears in the state or test list.

If you prefer to order your own FREE copy of any of the Tests at a Glance booklets, check with your college or university or call ETS at 1-609-771-7395. For a complete list of the booklets available, see Ordering Publications.

This information is easy to access through this Web site. Just click here. The same information can be found in the Test Session/Test Selection List in The Praxis Series: 2000-2001 Registration Bulletin.

Both the PPST and the CBT consist of three tests: Reading, Mathematics, and Writing. Both formats cover similar basic skills, but the tests are not the same. The CBT is a computer-adaptive test in which the computer customizes your test by selecting questions for you based on your answers to previous questions. For more information, see Computer-Based Testing for Praxis I: Academic Skills Assessments.

If you miss both the regular and late registration deadlines, you can attempt to test as a standby. Standbys are accepted at test centers based on the availability of staff, space, and test materials. Although we will try to accommodate you, there is no guarantee that you will be admitted as a standby. If you are planning to test as a standby have a check or money order for $60 ready, plus the test and registration fees. You will also need a completed registration form, available in The Praxis Series: 1999-2000 Registration Bulletin.

Scores for computer-based tests are available faster than scores for paper-based tests. Scores for the Reading and Math sections of the computer-based Praxis I: Academic Skills Assessments are reported on the screen immediately following the test. Official scores for these sections and for the Writing section are mailed to you and to your designated score recipients approximately two to three weeks after your test date. Scores for paper-based tests in The Praxis Series are mailed out four to six weeks following the test date.

You will receive passing score information on your score report for those score recipients you listed on your registration form. If you test in a state with automatic score reporting, you will receive passing score information for that state.

A list of states and their passing scores will be included with your score report. You also can locate the same information on this Web site by clicking on the appropriate state name under State-by-State Requirements

Scores are sent to you and to the institutions or agencies that you have designated on the registration form as score recipients. (Note that in California, Connecticut, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, New Jersey, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and West Virginia, scores are automatically reported to the State Department of Education.)

Complete the form in the Registration Bulletin to request additional score reports. The form is also available in downloadable format from this Web site. Click on "Download" below for a list of forms available. Or, call our toll-free number 1-800-772-9476 (credit card required) to request additional score reports. You will be charged $30 per score report request.

To make changes to your record before a test, complete the correction form attached to your admission ticket and either send it to ETS before the test or turn it in on the test day. After the test, you can request a file correction by following the directions in The Praxis Series Registration Bulletin.

As many test takers know, test taking can be a stressful, bewildering, and disheartening process. What is more, test taking and the all important score generated from such tests as the SAT, TCT, and GRE determine and provide us with a theoretical "profile" of sorts that determines entry into a university, school, or program and even scholarship awards. With such weighty concerns, it is easy to see why many find test taking stressful. However, with good preparations that takes into account the many facets that have an impact on test scores and ability, a student can mentally, physically, and intellectually prepare for a testing situation and expect to achieve moderate success.

For years students have been barraged with test taking advice such as "if you don’t know the answer, always pick C…" and "you have three of the same responses in a row." In addition to these there is still the pervading belief that the best way to prepare for any test is to cram like mad right up to the test. If we can change these beliefs and motivate students to begin to look at the test taking experience as an exercise in which they have control, we can certainly expect the stress from the test to dissipate as confidence grows. Instruct students to prepare for the test taking experience in three ways: Physiologically, intellectually and with common sense. Each has their own impact on test taking and each should be addressed with care and concern.


	LSU Praxis Information Site \| home LSU Catalog Notes \| Tests-at-a-Glance \| Test Taking Tips \| Which Test Should You Take? \| Frequently Asked Questions \| Resources Louisiana Praxis Registration Bulletin A special registration bulletin was prepared for test-takers in Louisiana. Pick up your free copy in the Office of Student Services, 236 Peabody Hall. You may click here to see a copy which can be printed. (Note: you will leave this site.) Praxis II 2002 Louisiana Test Dates September 21, 2002 November 23, 2002 January 11, 2003 March 8, 2003 April 26, 2003 June 28, 2003 Praxis II Louisiana Test Centers Baton Rouge--Baton Rouge High School Hammond--Southeastern LA University Lake Charles--McNeese University Monroe--University LA Monroe New Orleans--University of New Orleans Ruston--Louisiana Tech Shreveport--Centenary College Thibodaux--Nicholls State University Praxis I Praxis I CBT testing is available at Sylvan Technology Centers located in: Baton Rouge Bossier City New Orleans Praxis I CBT testing is also available at ETS Institutional Centers in: Baton Rouge Monroe New Orleans Frequently Asked Questions Answers to Questions Frequently Asked by Teacher Candidates Why do I have to take The Praxis Series tests? These tests are required by state departments of education and by colleges and universities to measure the academic achievement and proficiency of individuals entering or completing teacher preparation programs. Do all states require these tests? The Praxis Series tests are currently required in 35 states of the 43 that use tests as part of the teacher licensure process. These tests are also used by several professional licensing agencies and by several hundred colleges and universities. Because The Praxis Series tests are used to license teachers in many states, teacher candidates can test in one state and submit their scores for licensure in any other state that recognizes The Praxis Series. Who creates The Praxis Series tests? The tests are developed by educators for educators. Advisory committees of distinguished teachers, teacher educators, key administrators, and professional organizations help determine test content and review, revise, and approve all questions and exercises. The Praxis Series is grounded in current research, including a complete job analysis of the most important tasks and skills required of beginning teachers and extensive surveys to confirm test validity. What types of questions will I find on these tests? Praxis I: Academic Skills Assessments and Praxis II: Subject Assessments feature sophisticated multiple-choice questions and candidate-constructed responses that measure both breadth and depth of knowledge. Praxis III: Classroom Performance Assessments include essays, oral response tasks, listening tasks, portfolio reviews, video stimuli, and in-class observations. How can I learn more about what's covered in each test? Anyone considering taking a test in The Praxis Series should spend some time reviewing the Tests at a Glance booklet in each relevant content area. Tests at a Glance booklets include content outlines, sample questions with rationale for the best answers, and test-taking strategies. If I do not know the answer to some particular questions, should I leave them blank? No, you should not leave any question blank. You are not penalized for choosing an incorrect response, so it is better to make an educated guess than not to answer a question at all. If you do not know the answer to a question, narrow down the responses and pick one response that seems most likely to be correct. That will improve your chances of doing well on the test. Can I still teach if do not pass the test? Typically, no. For answers to specific questions about certification requirements, go to the Louisiana State Department of Education Web site at http://www.doe.state.la.us/DOE/asps/home.asp?I=CERTIFICATION or contact Dr. Mary Helen McCoy, Assistant Director, mhmccoy@mail.doe.state.la.us, Division of Teacher Standards, Assessment and Certification, Louisiana Department of Education, P. O. Box 94064, Baton Rouge, LA 70804-9064, (225) 342-3490, fax:(225) 342-3499. Back to Top Do I have to score well or just pass this test in order to teach? In order to meet the testing requirement for a particular certification area, you are required to pass the test(s) in that area. Once you have passed a test, you are not required to take that test again. If two tests are required for your field, you must pass both. However, if you pass one test and not the other, you are only required to retake the test that you did not pass. Only passing scores will be reported to the Teacher Certification unit. Now you can review and download the Tests at a Glance information instantly, from this Web site. To access the information for a specific test, go first to Tests and Test Dates for a complete list of the assessments. Then find the specific test you're interested in and click on the test code number as it appears in that list. The Tests at a Glance information is in the form of downloadable PDF files in Adobe® Acrobat® format. In order to view and print these files, you need Acrobat Reader software. See information on downloading Acrobat Reader software and configuring your browser. After downloading the Acrobat Reader software and configuring your browser, you can access the information on a specific test by clicking on the test code number as it appears in the state or test list. If you prefer to order your own FREE copy of any of the Tests at a Glance booklets, check with your college or university or call ETS at 1-609-771-7395. For a complete list of the booklets available, see Ordering Publications. How do I know which tests to take? This information is easy to access through this Web site. Just click here. The same information can be found in the Test Session/Test Selection List in The Praxis Series: 2000-2001 Registration Bulletin. Is the computer-based Academic Skills Assessment (CBT) just a computerized version of the paper-based PPST® (Pre-Professional Skills Tests)? Both the PPST and the CBT consist of three tests: Reading, Mathematics, and Writing. Both formats cover similar basic skills, but the tests are not the same. The CBT is a computer-adaptive test in which the computer customizes your test by selecting questions for you based on your answers to previous questions. For more information, see Computer-Based Testing for Praxis I: Academic Skills Assessments. How do I register for a computer-based test? Call the Sylvan Registration Center at 1-800-853-6773. Have a credit card ready in order to make your appointment. What if I miss the registration deadlines? If you miss both the regular and late registration deadlines, you can attempt to test as a standby. Standbys are accepted at test centers based on the availability of staff, space, and test materials. Although we will try to accommodate you, there is no guarantee that you will be admitted as a standby. If you are planning to test as a standby have a check or money order for $60 ready, plus the test and registration fees. You will also need a completed registration form, available in The Praxis Series: 1999-2000 Registration Bulletin. How long will it take to receive my scores? Scores for computer-based tests are available faster than scores for paper-based tests. Scores for the Reading and Math sections of the computer-based Praxis I: Academic Skills Assessments are reported on the screen immediately following the test. Official scores for these sections and for the Writing section are mailed to you and to your designated score recipients approximately two to three weeks after your test date. Scores for paper-based tests in The Praxis Series are mailed out four to six weeks following the test date. How do I know if I passed the test? You will receive passing score information on your score report for those score recipients you listed on your registration form. If you test in a state with automatic score reporting, you will receive passing score information for that state. A list of states and their passing scores will be included with your score report. You also can locate the same information on this Web site by clicking on the appropriate state name under State-by-State Requirements Who gets a copy of my score report? Scores are sent to you and to the institutions or agencies that you have designated on the registration form as score recipients. (Note that in California, Connecticut, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, New Jersey, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and West Virginia, scores are automatically reported to the State Department of Education.) What if I need to send my scores to additional institutions after I register? Complete the form in the Registration Bulletin to request additional score reports. The form is also available in downloadable format from this Web site. Click on "Download" below for a list of forms available. Or, call our toll-free number 1-800-772-9476 (credit card required) to request additional score reports. You will be charged $30 per score report request. What if I am absent from the test? For a fee of $35 you can request a transfer of your registration to a future test date. Do I receive a refund if I cancel my registration? If you cancel by the late registration deadline, you can receive a refund of your test fees (but not the registration fee or any service fees). What if I need to make changes to the information on my record? To make changes to your record before a test, complete the correction form attached to your admission ticket and either send it to ETS before the test or turn it in on the test day. After the test, you can request a file correction by following the directions in The Praxis Series Registration Bulletin. ============================= As many test takers know, test taking can be a stressful, bewildering, and disheartening process. What is more, test taking and the all important score generated from such tests as the SAT, TCT, and GRE determine and provide us with a theoretical "profile" of sorts that determines entry into a university, school, or program and even scholarship awards. With such weighty concerns, it is easy to see why many find test taking stressful. However, with good preparations that takes into account the many facets that have an impact on test scores and ability, a student can mentally, physically, and intellectually prepare for a testing situation and expect to achieve moderate success. For years students have been barraged with test taking advice such as "if you don’t know the answer, always pick C…" and "you have three of the same responses in a row." In addition to these there is still the pervading belief that the best way to prepare for any test is to cram like mad right up to the test. If we can change these beliefs and motivate students to begin to look at the test taking experience as an exercise in which they have control, we can certainly expect the stress from the test to dissipate as confidence grows. Instruct students to prepare for the test taking experience in three ways: Physiologically, intellectually and with common sense. Each has their own impact on test taking and each should be addressed with care and concern. Back to Top