Individuals who want to teach students in early childhood, must successfully complete the Praxis Early Childhood Education Exam. It is designed to evaluate the prospective early childhood teachers’ ability to instruct on specific content areas.
This computer-based exam consists of 120 selected-response questions. You will be given 2 hours to complete it.
Examinees with conditions covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act, who require special testing accommodations, may make this request in writing.
Some of these accommodations include extended testing time, breaks, separate testing room, pen/pencil test, Perkins Brailler, and large print test book and answer sheet.
What are the topics covered on this exam?
- Language and Literacy – 36 questions
- Mathematics – 30 questions
- Social Studies – 17 questions
- Science – 17 questions
- Health and Physical Education; Creative and Performing Arts – 20 questions
Under the topic of Language and Literacy, the sub-topics that will be assessed include foundational skills of emergent literacy, foundational skills of reading, literature and informational text, writing, speaking and listening, and language.
Under the topic of Mathematics, the sub-topics that will be assessed include foundational skills of emergent mathematics, whole numbers: numbers and operations, fractions: numbers and operations, algebraic thinking, geometry, measurement, and data.
Under the topic of Social Studies, the sub-topics that will be assessed include identity, social, and emotional development, culture and cultural identity, environments, people and places, chronology and analyzing historical data, and government and civics.
Under the topic of Science, the sub-topics that will be assessed include scientific inquiry, physical science, Earth and space science, life science, and engineering, technology and science application.
Under the topic of Health and Physical Education, Creative and Performing Arts, the sub-topics that will be assessed include fundamentals of health, fundamental concepts and skills of physical education, purpose and functions of the arts, and structure and processes within the arts.
What is the most convenient way to register for the exam?
Registering online and making your payment via credit card, debit card, or PayPal is the most convenient way. Once the registration process is complete, you will be provided with an admission ticket. Be sure to print the ticket, and take it with you on testing day.
What is the cost of the exam?
The fee for this exam is $120.
What are the testing dates and locations?
The Praxis Early Childhood Education Exam is offered throughout the year.
Since the test is offered at various sites throughout the world, you have the option of choosing the testing center that is located the closest to you.
What should I do the day of the exam?
To avoid being late to the testing center, and forfeiting your opportunity to take the exam, it is best to plan on arriving 15-30 minutes early. This will also give you enough time to check-in and settle down before testing begins.
Bring a valid photo ID, one that is not expired or temporary. This form of identification must have your name, signature, and photo. A driver’s license, passport, or military identification card are acceptable forms of ID. If you do not present this identification, you will not be allowed to take the exam.
The Praxis Early Childhood Education Exam does not permit the use of a hand-held calculator; therefore, you are not allowed to bring one into the testing area.
Some other items prevented from the testing area include a purse, briefcase, purse, cell phone, other electronic devices, and food/drink.
Can I take a break during the exam?
There is no scheduled break built in to this exam, but if it is necessary for you to take a restroom break, you may do so. Note, the exam clock will not stop while you are on break, so the longer you are on break, the less time you have to complete the exam.
What happens after I take the exam?
Immediately after you finish the exam, your unofficial score report will appear on the computer screen. Within two to three weeks of testing, you will receive notification that you can access your official score report online.
What is the passing score of this exam?
Consult your state, as the passing score varies from state to state.
What happens if I don’t pass the exam?
Try again. The Praxis Early Childhood Education Exam affords you the opportunity to re-take the test every 21 days, until you pass.
How Can I Prepare for the Praxis Early Childhood Education Test?
That’s a great question. We’ve broken down the answer into three parts.
- Do yourself a favor and study. Do not walk in unprepared. We have recommended prep materials below, but that only helps if you actually try. Plus, studying is actually proven to be the best antidote to test anxiety.
- Take care of yourself. Make sure you’re eating well, exercising, and sleeping. All of these things are scientifically linked to brain performance. If you take care of your body, you’ll be helping your grades.
- Get a study guide or set of flashcards. Some people study better a certain way. Find your study strengths and make the most of them. We’ve tried to make it easy for you by tracking down the best study guide and flashcard set for your exam. Below you’ll see links to both!
