Praxis Requirements in New York

So, you’re thinking about becoming a teacher in New York? You’re probably hearing a lot of acronyms: CSTs, edTPA, and of course—the Praxis. It’s easy to get confused. But don’t worry—we’re here to make sense of it all.

The Praxis exams, created by ETS (Educational Testing Service), are standardized educator certification exams used across the U.S. to measure the knowledge and skills of prospective teachers.

In some states, these tests are required for licensure. But in New York? Well, it’s a bit different. The New York State Education Department (NYSED) has its own system and licensing requirements for NY teachers.

So let’s answer the big question upfront: Do you need the Praxis to teach in New York?
Maybe. It depends on what you’re teaching and where you’re coming from.

Let’s walk through it together so you can stop Googling and start planning. Explore your Praxis test options in New York and get started with official prep materials and Prepsaret practice tests today.

What Praxis Tests Are Required for Teachers in New York?

First things first: the majority of Praxis requirements in New York for teachers don’t apply to most general education roles. 

NYSED generally relies on its own state-specific assessments, like the Content Specialty Tests (CSTs) and the edTPA (although edTPA was recently eliminated as a requirement for initial certification).

But that doesn’t mean Praxis is completely off the table.

There are a few teaching fields where Praxis tests are accepted—and in some cases, expected:

• Speech-Language Pathology (Praxis 5331)
• School Psychology (Praxis 5402)
• Audiology (Praxis 5343)

If you’re aiming to work in one of these specialized roles in a New York school, you’ll likely be required to pass the corresponding Praxis exam as part of your teacher certification process in NY.

And what about the Praxis Core—those basic math, reading, and writing exams?

Generally, New York does not use the Core Academic Skills for Educators (CASE) to assess basic skills. Instead, NYSED uses the Academic Literacy Skills Test (ALST) or similar state testing criteria.

So unless you’re applying via an interstate route or a transitional certification program, you likely won’t need to worry about Praxis Core NY.

Overview of New York State Praxis Guidelines by NYSED

Here’s where things get a little technical—but stick with us, it’s worth it.

The New York State Education Department (NYSED) oversees teacher certification and sets the rules about which tests count. As of now, NYSED only accepts Praxis scores in limited situations, typically involving related service roles or out-of-state applicants.

So, let’s say you’re a licensed teacher from another state who already passed Praxis exams—can you use those scores here?

Yes, sometimes. Through interstate reciprocity, NYSED may accept your existing Praxis scores as part of your application for NY teacher certification Praxis requirements. 

However, it’s not automatic. You’ll need to check with the Office of Teaching Initiatives and provide all required documentation.

Another note for out-of-state candidates: if you’re applying under alternative pathways, Virginia Praxis requirements, or transitional licenses, Praxis exams might pop up depending on your role, especially in specialized areas.

To summarize, New York Praxis requirements don’t apply broadly—but they do matter in specific licensure exam categories and reciprocity scenarios.

Visit the NYSED Office of Teaching Initiatives for the latest Praxis requirements in New York PDF updates.

Praxis Test Costs and Accommodations in New York

Alright, let’s talk money and support.

If you’re taking a Praxis exam in New York—maybe for School Psychology or Speech-Language Pathology—here’s what to expect:

• Praxis Subject Assessments (like 5331 or 5402): $130–$160 per test
• Praxis Core (if applicable): about $90 per individual section, or $150 for the combined test

Now for some good news—ETS offers fee waivers for eligible test takers. If you’re a college student receiving financial aid, you might qualify. Waivers can cover the full cost of the exam, so definitely look into that if cost is a concern.

Need accommodations? ETS has a dedicated process for test-takers with disabilities, health needs, or English as a second language (ESL) support.

This could include extended time, additional breaks, or screen magnification—whatever you need to be successful. Just be sure to apply early (at least 6 weeks in advance of your test date).

For detailed info on accommodations, head over to the ETS Disability Services page.

Praxis Test New York Passing Scores

To pass the Praxis test in New York, you’ll need to hit specific minimum scores set by the New York State Education Department (NYSED). These Praxis passing scores for New York teachers vary by the exam you’re taking. 

For example, the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators (Core) typically requires a score of around 150 in each section, though this can shift depending on the certification pathway.

Here’s the scoop:

When you take the Praxis, Praxis score submission to NYSED is simple. Just enter ETS code 7330 during registration, and your scores will be sent directly to NYSED.

And what if you don’t pass the first time? No worries! You can retake most Praxis exams once every 28 days (excluding weekends and holidays). Just make sure to prep better next time—you’ve got this.

Praxis Test Preparation Resources for New York Test Takers

Feeling nervous about the test? That’s totally normal—but don’t panic. There are tons of great resources to help you get ready. Start with the ETS Official Study Companions. They’re free, and they give you sample questions, test overviews, and scoring guides.

You’ll also find free Praxis practice tests on the ETS website, and we highly recommend taking them. Practice tests not only show you where you stand—they also help calm your nerves before the big day.

Need extra help? Check out Prepsaret Praxis test prep materials, which are designed specifically to align with ETS standards. 

Prepsaret offers targeted study guides, video lessons, and practice exams for multiple Praxis subjects. They’re among the best Praxis test prep resources for New York educators.

You can also explore programs like Teachers of Tomorrow, NYC Teaching Fellows, or local universities that may offer Praxis prep courses or tutoring. Other platforms like Khan Academy, 240 Tutoring, or Mometrix also provide tailored test prep for Praxis NY tools online.

Remember: consistent practice = confident test-day performance. You’ve got the smarts—now let’s sharpen those skills.

How to Register for the Praxis Exam in New York

Okay, registration time! Here’s how to sign up for your Praxis exam in New York—it’s easier than you think.

First, go to the ETS website and create a free ETS account. Once you’re in, you’ll be able to choose your test, pick a date and location, or even go for the Praxis at-home option if you prefer taking it from your couch (yes, that’s a real thing).

Make sure you select the correct exam code for the test you’re taking and add NYSED (code 7330) as one of your score recipients. You don’t want your scores ending up in the wrong inbox!

How to register for Praxis exam in New York is also detailed on ETS and NYSED portals, including options for choosing locations and uploading IDs.

When test day comes around, you’ll need to bring valid ID that matches the name on your ETS account. And here’s a pro tip: register early so you get your preferred date and center. Waiting until the last minute can be risky, especially around peak test seasons.

Praxis Requirements in New York for Teacher Certification

So, who exactly needs to take the Praxis in New York? While Praxis requirements in New York schools aren’t universal, they’re often used when you’re coming from another state, or if you’re in a specialized licensure track.

For many first-time teachers, the edTPA, Educating All Students (EAS) exam, and Content Specialty Tests (CSTs) are the main requirements.

But sometimes, the Praxis for teachers in NY is part of that puzzle—especially if you’re seeking initial certification and you trained in a state where Praxis was part of the process.

Planning to transfer your license from another state? Good news: New York participates in reciprocity pathways, so your Praxis scores from states like NJ, VA, or PA may help you meet New York Praxis score requirements.

And don’t forget to check out the NYSED TEACH portal, which is your one-stop-shop for teacher licensure exam applications, status updates, and uploading your credentials.

Praxis Score Reporting and Recognition Across States

One of the best things about the Praxis is how portable your scores are. If you plan to teach in multiple states—say, New York now and maybe Connecticut or Pennsylvania later—your Praxis scores can follow you.

Here are just a few of the nearby states that also recognize Praxis exams:

• New Jersey (NJ)
• Virginia (VA)
• Connecticut (CT)
• Pennsylvania (PA)
• Delaware (DE)

Curious about all states that do not require Praxis exams or do? Check out the Praxis scores by state PDF available from ETS—it’s a handy reference.

If you’re dreaming of being flexible in your teaching career, make a smart move: when you register for your Praxis exam, send your scores to multiple states. Doing this upfront will save you time and extra fees later. 

You usually get four free score reporting options, so use them wisely.

Whether you’re staying in New York or thinking ahead to a career across state lines, knowing what Praxis tests are required for teachers in New York and beyond gives you more options—and who doesn’t want that?

Continue reading: State-by-State Praxis Test Requirements for Teacher Certification

Praxis Requirements in New York: FAQs