Praxis Requirements in New Hampshire: Test & License Guide

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So, you’ve decided to become a teacher in the beautiful state of New Hampshire? That’s amazing. But before you grab your chalk and step into the classroom, there’s one important hurdle to clear: the Praxis exams.

These ETS Praxis exams are a key part of New Hampshire teacher certification requirements. They help ensure that all educators have the right knowledge and skills before working with students. 

The New Hampshire Department of Education (NH DOE) relies on these state-approved educator exams as a foundation for licensure.

There are two big categories to know about: Praxis Core and Praxis Subject Assessments. The Core tests your basic skills in reading, writing, and math (officially known as the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators). 

The Subject Assessments focus more on what you know about the specific subject you’ll teach—like English, math, biology, or special education. This distinction is especially important for anyone working toward a teaching credential in New Hampshire.

If you’re a new teacher, an out-of-state applicant, or going through a teacher prep program, chances are you’ll need to take one or both types. That’s why understanding Praxis requirements in New Hampshire for teachers is so important.

Ready to get started? Let’s break down everything you need to know—and don’t forget to start studying. Prepsaret practice tests and prep guides can give you the edge you need.

How to Register for the Praxis Test in New Hampshire

Let’s talk about getting started with your Praxis test NH journey. Registering might seem overwhelming at first, but it’s actually pretty straightforward when you break it down step by step.

  • First, create an account on the ETS website—it’s free and only takes a few minutes. This account is where you’ll register, view NH Praxis scores, and manage your test details.
  • Next, choose the right test. If you’re entering a teacher prep program, you’ll likely need the Praxis Core NH. Subject-specific teachers should look for the correct Praxis Subject Assessment based on their focus area.
  • Check with the New Hampshire DOE or your prep program if you’re unsure. They’ll help confirm which test is required for your teaching license in New Hampshire.
  • When scheduling, you’ll pick your date and location. Choose from in-person test centers or remote testing (hello, pajama test day.). If you’re wondering where to take Praxis exams in New Hampshire, ETS offers a search tool to help you find approved locations across the state.

Make sure you have a quiet space, good internet, and a valid photo ID if testing at home.

Before you finalize, select your score recipients. Be sure to list the New Hampshire Department of Education so your scores get sent to the right place.

You may also need your Social Security number, school codes, and other details, so keep them handy.

Finally, double-check test dates and ID rules, and read all confirmation info to avoid any last-minute mix-ups.

Done right, registration sets you up for smooth sailing on test day—so take your time and do it carefully.

Praxis Test Costs and Accommodations in New Hampshire

Let’s talk money. The Praxis Core New Hampshire tests—Reading, Writing, and Math—cost about $90 each, or $150 if you take all three at once in a combined session (a nice way to save a few bucks and time). 

Praxis Subject Assessments can range from $120 to $160, depending on the specific test.

Worried about the cost? Good news—fee waivers are available. If you’re a college student with financial need, you might qualify. ETS usually looks at income, enrollment status, and financial aid records. It’s worth applying if you’re eligible.

If you need accommodations, like extended time or screen readers due to a disability or English language need, New Hampshire and ETS are here to support you. You’ll need to submit documentation early, though—sometimes the approval process can take weeks. Don’t delay.

You can request accommodations right through your ETS account, and once approved, you’ll get detailed instructions on how to book your test. Just make sure everything is in place well before test day.

Related blog post: New Hampshire Praxis Test

New Hampshire Praxis Passing Scores and Minimum Requirements

A person studying for the Praxis exam

Now let’s tackle the big question: What score do you need to pass?

In New Hampshire, here’s the minimum Praxis score for teacher certification in NH (for the Praxis Core):

  • Reading: 156
  • Writing: 162
  • Math: 150

Some programs may accept a composite score—so if you do slightly worse in one area but better in another, you could still pass overall. But again, it’s smart to check with your school or the New Hampshire Department of Education just to be sure.

For Praxis Subject Assessments, the Praxis passing scores New Hampshire requires vary depending on the subject. 

For example, if you’re taking the elementary education Praxis, you might need a score around 160 for each subtest. But that number will be different for Secondary Math, Science, or Special Education.

These scores are a key part of your NH teacher certification. If you don’t pass, you may need to wait before applying—or you might not get into your prep program at all. Some flexibility may exist based on your specific endorsement area, but never assume—verify.

Continue reading: Praxis Score Release Dates

Differences Between Praxis Core and Subject Test Requirements in NH

Okay, let’s clear up a common confusion. What’s the difference between Praxis Core and Praxis Subject Tests?

The Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators is all about basic academic skills—reading, writing, and math. Think of it as a general readiness test for future teachers. Most people take it before or during their teacher preparation program.

The Praxis Subject Assessments are content-focused exams that you’ll need to pass for actual certification. Want to teach high school English? You’ll need to show you really know your literature and grammar.

Here’s where it gets even more important: Not everyone needs both. If you’re switching certification fields or already hold a license in another state, the requirements can shift.

Also, test requirements differ between elementary and secondary certifications—elementary teachers often need a general knowledge elementary education Praxis, while high school teachers must pass a test specific to their subject.

To avoid any surprises, always double-check what’s required with the New Hampshire DOE or your university advisor.

Praxis Score Submission and Retakes in New Hampshire

Okay, you’ve signed up for your Praxis test New Hampshire—woohoo. Now what?

When registering, make sure to designate the New Hampshire Department of Education (NH DOE) as a score recipient.

You can do this during the sign-up process on your ETS account. This way, your results go straight to the people who need to see them—no stress, no extra steps.

If you choose NH DOE during registration, ETS automatically sends your score to them after your test. But what if you didn’t list them or need to send it somewhere else?

No problem. You can log into your ETS account and manually request an additional score report. Just keep in mind—there’s a small fee for that (around $50 at last check).

Now let’s say things didn’t go as planned on test day. It happens. Luckily, you can retake most licensure exams for teachers after a 28-day waiting period. This gives you time to regroup and prepare with a fresh strategy.

Not sure how to bounce back after a tough score? Here are a few friendly tips:

  • Review your NH Praxis scores report to see which areas need work.
  • Consider signing up for a prep course or tutoring.
  • Practice with materials designed for your test format—it really makes a difference.

Remember, retaking the Praxis isn’t a setback—it’s just part of the journey for many future teachers.

Read on: Praxis Practice Test

What Praxis Tests Are Required to Teach in New Hampshire?

Here’s the million-dollar question: What Praxis tests are required to teach in New Hampshire?

That depends on what and where you want to teach. Here’s a general breakdown to get you started:

  • Early Childhood Education (typically birth–grade 3): Usually involves the Praxis Early Childhood Education test.
  • Elementary Education (grades K–6): Most candidates take the Praxis Elementary Education: Multiple Subjects test.
  • Secondary Education (grades 7–12): You’ll need to take subject-specific Praxis tests, like English, Math, Science, or Social Studies, depending on your focus.
  • Special Education or ESL: There are additional tests for these endorsements—such as Special Education: Core Knowledge or English to Speakers of Other Languages.

And don’t guess—double-check the requirements on the NH DOE website. Better yet, talk to your educator preparation program or licensing advisor. They’ll give you the most accurate and up-to-date info for your specific situation.

Try this out: Praxis Mathematics (5733) Free Questions

How to Become a Certified Teacher in New Hampshire With Praxis

A teacher teaching in a classroom

Taking the Praxis is just one part of the teaching journey in New Hampshire—but it’s a big one.

Here’s how it fits into the big picture:

First, you’ll need to complete a bachelor’s degree in education or a related field (plus any required teaching practicum or student teaching). At some point—depending on your program—you’ll take the Praxis Core New Hampshire and/or a Subject Assessment.

Praxis might be your entry ticket into an education program, a mid-program checkpoint, or the final piece before applying for NH teacher certification.

Also, don’t forget the background check and fingerprinting process—yup, it’s part of New Hampshire teaching license requirements.

Looking for a different path into the classroom? Alternative certification programs are available too. Some still require Praxis requirements in New Hampshire for teaching, so check the details carefully.

To stay on track, visit the New Hampshire Department of Education website often. It’s your go-to place for application updates, education requirements NH, and licensure checklists.

Learn more: State-by-State Praxis Test Requirements for Teacher Certification

Best Resources to Pass Praxis in New Hampshire

The Prepsaret, 240 Tutoring, and ETS logos

When it comes to prep tools, you’ve got a lot of options—and some are better suited to New Hampshire standards than others.

Let’s start with Prepsaret, one of the most trusted and effective platforms for Praxis success. Prepsaret is designed specifically for Praxis test-takers and offers full-length practice exams, personalized study plans, and detailed progress tracking.

Its content is aligned with New Hampshire teacher certification requirements and helps you focus on exactly what you need to pass. 

Whether you’re reviewing content areas or brushing up on test-taking strategies, Prepsaret’s smart tools and interactive resources make studying feel manageable—and even motivating.

Want local support? NH universities and teacher training programs might have test prep sessions, tutoring, or resource centers—definitely worth exploring.

For an extra edge, try using:

  • Full-length practice tests (get used to test timing)
  • Flashcards for tricky terms and concepts
  • Progress trackers to see how you’re improving

And here’s a bonus idea: join discussion forums or peer groups focused on Praxis success in New Hampshire. Swapping tips and motivation with others can make prep feel way less lonely.

Want a printable summary? Search for a Praxis requirements in New Hampshire PDF online or via the NH DOE site to keep key info handy.

Check this out: Best Praxis Study Resources

Praxis Requirements in New Hampshire: FAQs

You can take the Praxis test without having an education degree. Many candidates take it before graduating from a teacher preparation program, and individuals coming from other fields can also prepare for and take the Praxis as part of alternative certification routes.

Most states require the Praxis, but some have their own state-specific teacher certification exams instead. States such as California, Florida, Texas, New York, and Arizona use their own exams rather than Praxis for teacher licensure. 

Iowa recently removed test requirements altogether.

To take the Praxis, you need to register online, provide identification, and pay an exam fee. 

Requirements include having certain documentation, meeting state-specific criteria, and, in some cases, a bachelor’s degree or completed coursework in your subject area, depending on local regulations.

New Hampshire is experiencing a teacher shortage, particularly in rural and hard-to-staff regions. 

Recent legislative action has attempted to address shortages through incentives like student loan forgiveness, reflecting ongoing concerns about educator recruitment and retention in the state.

Generally, the Praxis Core test is considered the easiest by candidates, as it covers basic skills in reading, writing, and math. The Praxis Subject Assessments are typically perceived as more challenging due to their specialized content requirements.