All prospective teachers in the state of Texas who are seeking certification to teach science and related courses to grades four through eight are required to take and pass this exam. It is designed to evaluate the skills and knowledge that teachers at an entry level need for this field of learning.
Who is Eligible?
There are several ways you can be eligible to take this or any other TExES exams:
If you are affiliated with or part of an Educator Preparation Program (EPP) or are an out of state candidate, you will first need to get the approval of your EPP or school district. You will then be required to create a TEA login account and get a TEA ID number. This number is then used to create a TExES testing account, where you can register and pay for your exam.
If you are taking this exam as a Pre-admission Content Test candidate, through a charter school, or as a certification by exam candidate you will not need to create a TEA account, as you should already have a TEA ID number through your school or program. This ID can then be used to create your TExES testing account and register for an exam.
There is a fee of $116 to take this exam.
When and Where is it Taken?
This exam can be scheduled year-round by appointment at Pearson VUE testing facilities. Locations are scattered throughout the state of Texas and nationwide.
Choose a location and time that best suits you and your needs. However, it is recommended that you register for your preferred testing session as early as possible as space and seating are limited and filled on a first come, first served basis.
Special accommodations are available to those with disabilities and cannot take the exam under normal conditions.
You may reschedule or cancel your testing session for any reason up until the last 48 hours before your original exam. Changes cannot be made any later than this and will result in the forfeiture of your exam fees.
What Should I Bring?
It is important to arrive for your exam at least 15 minutes early to allow for enough time to complete the required check-in process and to make sure you are ready for the exam. If you arrive late, you will not be able to test that day and will have to reschedule and pay another fee.
You are required to bring at least two forms of ID to the testing center. Your primary ID must be a government-issued photo ID with your full name and signature. Your secondary ID must contain either your full name and signature or your full name and photo.
No personal items are permitted in the testing area. These must be kept in a designated area for the duration of the exam. These include but are not limited to:
- Calculators and cell phones
- Food and drinks
- Outerwear or jewelry
- Bags and purses
- Pencils, books, or study materials
If you are found in violation of this, you will be immediately dismissed and your scores will be voided. You will be provided with an on-screen periodic table.
What is Covered?
This exam consists of 100 selected-response questions divided into five main sections or domains.
You will have a total of five hours to complete the entire test, including 15 minutes for a brief computer tutorial and compliance agreement.
Scientific Inquiry and Processes (22%)
Correct use of tools and materials to ensure a safe and effective learning environment, the impact of science on daily life, basic and common science concepts and processes
Physical Sciences (22%)
Forces and motion, physical and chemical properties of matter, energy transformations
Life Science (22%)
Structure and function of living things, reproduction, and heredity, evolution and adaptation, regulatory mechanisms and behavior
Earth and Space Science (22%)
Earth systems, weather and climate, solar systems and the universe, history of earth systems
Science Learning, Instruction, and Assessment (13%)
Student learning processes, scientific inquiry roles in instruction, assessments to monitor performance
How is it Scored?
Exam results are released on your TExES account at 10 pm central time on the date listed for your exact exam date and will be automatically sent to TEA and your EPP, if applicable. You must earn a scaled score of at least 240 to pass this exam.
If you pass, you can apply for certification at least 7-10 business days after your scores were released. This can be done through your ECOS/TEA account.
Retakes are available after a 45-day waiting period. You are limited to only five certification exam attempts.
How Can I Prepare for the TExES Science 4-8 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!