NYSTCE 117
NYSTCE Blind and Visually Impaired (117)
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ExploreAbout this exam
The Blind and Visually Impaired (117) test is a New York State Teacher Certification Examination (NYSTCE) Content Specialty Test for educators who will teach students who are blind or visually impaired. It is one of the content specialty fields listed in the NYSTCE test catalog, and testing requirements depend on the certification type a candidate is pursuing, so check which tests your certification pathway requires before you register. The test is delivered as a computer-based test at select test centers, by appointment during published testing windows, and it is not offered at every location. Its format combines 60 selected-response items with two performance components: a transcription assignment made up of four tasks and a constructed-response item. One or more assignments permit insertion of special characters. The transcription tasks require your own Classic Perkins Brailler®, which must accommodate 11" × 11.5" paper; no braillewriter is provided, so practice with your device and confirm it is in good working order beforehand. Because the appointment includes a scored constructed response and hands-on transcription, preparation should combine content review with timed practice producing braille and writing analytical responses. Review the official preparation materials for this test, then build a study schedule around your weaker areas. This page is independent study support and is not affiliated with or endorsed by NYSED, Pearson, or the NYSTCE program.
What you'll study
About NYSTCE 117 preparation
What is the format of the Blind and Visually Impaired (117) test?
It is a computer-based test with 60 selected-response items, one transcription assignment containing four tasks, and one constructed-response item. One or more assignments allow you to insert special characters. It is offered at select test centers only, so confirm a site before you plan your appointment.
How long is the appointment, and how much of that is testing time?
The total appointment time is 4 hours and 15 minutes. That includes 15 minutes for the CBT tutorial and nondisclosure agreement, leaving 4 hours of testing time. Budget your pace accordingly: you have substantial writing and transcription work beyond the 60 selected-response items.
What score do I need to pass?
The passing score is 520. Candidates who score within 0.5 standard error of measurement (SEM) of the passing score on a required NYSTCE test may apply for a waiver. A waiver is an application process, not an automatic pass, so read the requirements carefully before relying on it.
How much does the test cost?
The test fee is $122. Review the complete fee and payment policy information on the NYSTCE site before registering, since payment rules and refund provisions are governed by program policy rather than by this page.
Do I need to bring anything special on test day?
Yes. This test includes transcription tasks, and you must bring your own Classic Perkins Brailler® to the testing center. It must accommodate 11" × 11.5" paper. A braillewriter will not be provided. Practice with your device beforehand and make sure it is in good working order.
How do I schedule my appointment?
You must schedule your test appointment by calling the phone number provided in the confirmation email you receive after registering. Follow all instructions in that confirmation email carefully to ensure proper scheduling. Do not assume you can simply pick a seat online after registering.
Can I retake the test if I do not pass?
The official test page does not state a retake policy, so confirm current retake and waiting-period rules through your NYSTCE account or the testing policies before you plan a second attempt. Treat any specific retake timeline you hear secondhand as unverified.
How should I sequence my studying?
Start with the official preparation materials for this test to see what is covered. Then practice the two performance components under time pressure, since transcription and constructed response are where candidates most often run short. Reserve selected-response drills for the final weeks and review your errors by topic.
What are common ways candidates lose points?
The most frequent problems are unfamiliarity with the Perkins Brailler under exam conditions, poor time allocation that leaves the constructed response rushed, and skipping the special-character insertion features. Practice timed transcription on 11" × 11.5" paper and rehearse inserting special characters before test day.
Will every question count toward my score?
Not necessarily. Tests may include questions being evaluated for future administrations that do not affect a candidate's score. You will not be told which items those are, so treat every question as scored and give each one your full attention.