Are you planning to become a certified teacher in South Carolina? If so, passing the Praxis Test South Carolina is one of the most important steps. This standardized teacher exam helps ensure you meet the qualifications set by the South Carolina Department of Education.
To succeed, you need the right tools and study strategies. With support from high-quality materials like those from Prepsaret you can prepare effectively and pass on your first try.
This guide will walk you through the South Carolina teacher certification test, including the teacher licensure exam process, requirements, and test prep tips.
South Carolina Praxis Requirements for Teachers
The South Carolina Department of Education has established a clear certification process that ensures teachers are prepared to educate effectively. These Praxis South Carolina requirements include passing a series of exams that measure both subject knowledge and foundational teaching skills.
This set of exams covers reading, writing, and mathematics—skills that are crucial for all teachers. In some cases, qualifying SAT or ACT scores may be accepted in place of the Praxis Core.
Depending on your intended teaching area, you’ll need to complete additional subject-specific assessments. Here’s what you need to know:
- Elementary Education candidates must pass the Praxis Core along with the appropriate Subject Assessments
- Middle and High School teachers are required to pass subject-specific Praxis Subject Assessments required in South Carolina
- Special Education teachers must take additional exams, such as Praxis 5354
- Early Childhood educators must complete age-appropriate assessments, such as Praxis 5025
- Most candidates are also required to pass the Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) exam
To receive your South Carolina educator license, you must pass all relevant exams with qualifying scores.
These scores must be officially submitted to the South Carolina Department of Education as part of the certification process. Once completed, you will be awarded an official SC teaching credential.
Types of Praxis Exams in South Carolina
South Carolina requires different types of Praxis exams depending on your certification goals. The three main categories are Praxis Core, Subject Tests, and Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) exams.
Each type of exam serves a specific purpose in the certification process. The Praxis Core evaluates basic academic skills, while Subject Tests assess content knowledge in specific teaching areas. The PLT exams focus on general teaching principles and classroom management skills.
Praxis Core
The Praxis Core South Carolina requirement is fundamental for most teaching candidates. This exam assesses your basic academic skills in reading, writing, and mathematics – skills that are essential for effective teaching regardless of your subject area.
The South Carolina Praxis Core requirements for teachers include three separate subtests:
- Core Reading subtest: Tests your ability to comprehend and analyze written material
- Writing subtest: Evaluates your writing skills through selected-response questions and essay tasks
- Mathematics subtest: Assesses your mathematical reasoning and problem-solving abilities
Most teacher candidates must pass the Praxis Test South Carolina Core exams before they can take their subject-specific assessments. This ensures that all teachers have strong foundational skills in these critical areas.
The Praxis Core can be taken as individual subtests or as a combined exam, depending on your preference and schedule. Many candidates find it beneficial to take all three subtests on the same day to minimize testing stress and logistics.
Check Out: Praxis Core Practice Test
Praxis Subject Tests SC – Subject-Specific Exams
The Praxis Subject Tests SC are content-specific assessments that evaluate your knowledge in your chosen teaching area. These Praxis Subject Assessments required in South Carolina vary significantly based on your certification goals.
Common subject areas include:
- Mathematics: For middle and high school math teachers
- Early Childhood Education: For pre-K and kindergarten educators
- Elementary Education: For grades K-6 teachers
- English Language Arts: For middle and high school English teachers
- Science subjects: Including biology, chemistry, physics, and earth science
- Social Studies: For history and social studies educators
- Special Education: For teachers working with students with disabilities
Each Praxis Test South Carolina subject assessment is designed to reflect the knowledge and skills needed for effective teaching in that specific area.
How to Register for the Praxis Test in South Carolina
Learning how to register for the Praxis test in South Carolina is a straightforward process, but it requires attention to detail and proper planning. The registration system is managed by Educational Testing Service (ETS), and understanding the steps will help ensure a smooth experience.
To register for Praxis South Carolina exams, follow these steps:
Step 1: Create an ETS Account
- Visit the official ETS Praxis website
- Create a secure account with your personal information
- Verify your account through email confirmation
Step 2: Select Your Exams
- Choose the specific Praxis tests required for your certification
- Verify the test codes match your South Carolina requirements
- Review the test descriptions and content
Step 3: Choose Your Testing Method
- Select between testing center or at-home options (where available)
- Pick your preferred test date and time
- Confirm location details
Step 4: Complete Payment
- Pay the required testing fees using a credit or debit card
- Keep your payment confirmation for your records
- Note that fees vary by exam type
The South Carolina Praxis registration process typically opens several months before test dates. ETS Praxis registration fills up quickly, especially during peak testing seasons, so early registration is highly recommended.
Remember that the Praxis Test South Carolina registration requires valid identification that matches your registration information exactly. Plan ahead to ensure all your documents are current and accurate.
What Score Do You Need to Pass the Praxis in South Carolina?
Achieving the required passing scores on your Praxis Test South Carolina is essential for obtaining your South Carolina educator license. These scores validate your readiness to teach and are a key component of the teacher licensure exam process in South Carolina.
Praxis Core Passing Scores
For the Praxis Core South Carolina, the required passing scores are as follows:
- Reading (5713): 156
- Writing (5723): 158
- Mathematics (5733): 150
Alternatively, a composite score of 464 is acceptable, provided no individual subtest score is more than four points below the required passing score for that subtest .
Praxis Subject Assessments Passing Scores
Each Praxis Subject Test South Carolina has its own qualifying score. For example:
- Elementary Education: Content Knowledge (5018): 163
- Early Childhood Education (5025): 156
- Special Education: Core Knowledge and Applications (5354): 162
- Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT):
- Early Childhood (5621): 157
- Grades K–6 (5622): 160
- Grades 7–12 (5624): 157
These scores are part of the South Carolina Praxis requirements and are necessary to advance in the certification process.
Praxis Score Reporting
After taking your exams, Praxis score reporting is handled by ETS Praxis. Your scores will be sent directly to the South Carolina Department of Education, which oversees the certification process.
Praxis score reporting follows a specific timeline:
- Selected-response tests: Scores available within 10-16 business days
- Tests with constructed-response: Scores available within 35 business days
- Official score reports: Sent to you and your designated institutions
Score reports include detailed information about your performance in different content areas, helping you understand your strengths and areas for improvement. If you don’t pass on your first attempt, this information is valuable for targeted study.
Remember, meeting the required passing scores is a significant step toward achieving your goal of becoming a certified educator in South Carolina.
Check Out: How Long Does It Take to Get Your Praxis Scores Back
Best Praxis Prep Courses in South Carolina
Effective Praxis test prep is essential for success on these important exams. South Carolina offers various preparation options, from online resources to in-person courses, ensuring every candidate can find a study method that works for their learning style and schedule.
Prepsaret stands out as one of the most popular online platforms for preparing for the Praxis exam in South Carolina.
Here’s why it’s highly recommended:
- Comprehensive Praxis study guide: Covers all concepts tested in the Praxis exam
- Self-paced learning: Study at your own speed and schedule
- Practice questions: Reflect the exact questions tested in the main exam
- User-friendly interface: Easy navigation and progress tracking
- Regular updates: Content stays current with exam changes
The official Praxis website also offers valuable study materials:
- Free Praxis Test South Carolina practice materials: Sample questions and study guides
- Official study guides in PDF format: Comprehensive Praxis test South Carolina PDF materials
- Test specifications: Detailed content outlines for each exam
Effective Praxis Study Strategies
Successful Praxis test South Carolina practice test preparation includes:
- Creating a study schedule: Consistent, regular study sessions
- Using multiple resources: Combining different study materials for comprehensive coverage
- Taking Praxis practice tests: Simulating actual exam conditions
- Identifying weak areas: Focusing additional study time on challenging topics
- Joining study groups: Learning from peers and sharing strategies
Praxis Test Dates South Carolina
Planning your timeline for the Praxis Test South Carolina starts with knowing when the exams are offered and when to register.
Understanding this schedule ensures you don’t miss the Praxis registration deadline in South Carolina and gives you enough time to study and feel prepared.
Praxis Testing Availability
Many Praxis exams, including the Praxis Core South Carolina and key subject tests like Elementary Education: Content Knowledge (5018) and Early Childhood Education (5025), are available daily at authorized test centers throughout the year.
Some special subject tests (e.g., Special Education: Core Knowledge & Applications (5354) and Principles of Learning and Teaching exams) are offered on specific months such as September, November, February, March, April, May, and July
A wide selection of Praxis exams, including both Core and subject assessments, are available for at-home testing year-round or in defined sessions, allowing flexibility for those who prefer to test remotely .
Key Dates & Tips
- Registration deadline: Typically closes 3 business days before your test date
- Late registration: Available for an additional fee until 1 business day before testing
- Score reporting deadlines: Plan backward from your certification application deadline
- Praxis registration deadline in South Carolina: Varies by test date but advance planning is essential
Consider these factors when scheduling your Praxis Test South Carolina:
- Certification application deadlines: Ensure scores arrive in time
- Personal schedule: Allow adequate preparation time
- Academic calendar: Consider your coursework and student teaching commitments
- Retake timing: Leave time for potential retakes if needed
Early registration is strongly recommended as popular test dates and locations fill quickly, especially during peak certification periods.
Find Out: Praxis Score Release Dates
Where to Take the Praxis Test in South Carolina (And Online Options)
Once you’ve registered, your next step is choosing where to take the Praxis Test South Carolina. You have two main options: in-person testing at an authorized center or online testing from home, depending on the exam you are taking.
Praxis In-Person Testing Centers
South Carolina offers a variety of convenient locations where you can complete your test in a structured and secure environment. Some of the most commonly used centers include:
- University of South Carolina
1600 Hampton St., Columbia - Executive Center Drive
121 Executive Center Dr., Columbia - Florence Testing Location
2141 C Hoffmeyer Rd., Florence - Poyner Adult Education
301 S. Dargan St., Florence
Additional testing centers are often available at:
- University testing centers
- Community colleges
- Commercial testing sites in major cities like Charleston and Greenville
How to Find a Test Center
When you register for Praxis South Carolina, the ETS website allows you to search by city, ZIP code, or state to find available test centers. The system provides real-time updates showing appointment availability based on the test you select and your location.
Can I Take the Praxis Test Online in South Carolina?
The answer is yes—ETS Praxis offers remote proctoring for a wide selection of Praxis exams, including the Praxis Core and several subject assessments.
This option is convenient for candidates who prefer to test from home or live far from a testing site.
To take the test online, you’ll need:
- A quiet, private workspace
- A computer with a webcam and reliable internet
- The ETS Test Browser and ProctorU system installed
Make sure the exam you’re registered for is eligible for at-home testing before choosing this option.
Whether you choose in-person or remote testing, make your decision early and plan ahead. The right testing environment can help you feel confident and focused on exam day as you work toward passing the Praxis Test South Carolina.
Continue Reading: How to Pass the Paraprofessional Test
Praxis Test South Carolina: FAQs
What Is a Passing Praxis Score in SC?
Passing scores vary by test; for Praxis Core: Reading 156, Writing 158, Math 150, or a 464 composite. Subject tests have their own required scores.
Is the Praxis Test Hard to Pass?
Difficulty varies by individual preparation and subject, but many candidates find it challenging without proper study and practice.
Does SC Require Praxis?
Yes, South Carolina requires Praxis exams for teacher certification in most licensure areas.
Can I Take My Praxis Test Online?
Yes, many Praxis exams can be taken online at home with remote proctoring, depending on the specific test.
How Much Does It Cost to Take the Praxis in South Carolina?
Praxis Core subtests cost $90 each, or $150 for the combined test; subject test fees vary by exam.
Praxis Test South Carolina: Conclusion
Ready to take the next step toward your teaching career? Passing the Praxis Test South Carolina is your gateway to earning your SC teaching credential and the right preparation makes all the difference.
Don’t leave your success to chance. Start studying today with Prepsaret’s trusted materials. Their self-paced Praxis study guide and realistic practice questions are designed to help you pass on your first try.
Take control of your future, prepare with Prepsaret and get one step closer to becoming a certified teacher in South Carolina!