NYSTCE Deaf and Hard of Hearing 063
Deaf and Hard of Hearing CST (063)
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ExploreAbout this exam
The Deaf and Hard of Hearing Content Specialty Test (test code 063) is one of the NYSTCE Content Specialty Tests administered for New York State educator certification. It is intended for candidates seeking certification to teach students who are deaf or hard of hearing, and it assesses the professional knowledge and skills that role demands rather than general pedagogy alone. Per the official NYSTCE test page, the exam is computer-based and contains 90 selected-response items plus 1 constructed-response item. Candidates are scheduled for 3 hours and 30 minutes of total appointment time, which includes 15 minutes for the CBT tutorial and nondisclosure agreement, leaving 3 hours and 15 minutes of actual testing time. The passing score is 520 and the test fee is $122. Test dates are available by appointment during published testing windows, and test sites are located in New York State and nationwide. Test features are listed as none. Because one constructed-response item is scored separately from the selected-response questions, preparation should include written analysis and justification practice alongside content review. A sensible plan is to obtain the official preparation materials for this test, review the framework to map your strengths and gaps, and take a full-length practice test under timed conditions before scheduling.
What you'll study
About NYSTCE Deaf and Hard of Hearing 063 preparation
What is the format of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing CST (063)?
It is a computer-based test. The official test page lists 90 selected-response items and 1 constructed-response item. Test features are listed as none, so no calculator or other built-in tools are provided. Plan to budget your time so you can draft, review, and revise the single written response.
How long is the test, and how much of that is actual testing time?
You are scheduled for 3 hours and 30 minutes of total appointment time. That includes 15 minutes for the CBT tutorial and nondisclosure agreement, which leaves 3 hours and 15 minutes of testing time. Arrive early, since check-in happens before your appointment time begins.
What score do I need to pass, and what is the fee?
The passing score is 520, and the test fee is $122. The official page directs candidates to the complete fee and payment policy for details, so confirm current payment rules when you register. Candidates who score within 0.5 standard error of measurement of the passing score on a required NYSTCE test may apply for a waiver.
Where and when can I take test 063?
Test dates are available by appointment during published testing windows, so there is no single fixed administration date. Test sites are located in New York State and nationwide. Use the test center locator on the NYSTCE site to find the nearest location before you register, and check the testing windows page for open dates.
How hard is the exam, and what trips candidates up?
The exam is a content specialty test, so it assumes real depth in deaf education rather than general teaching knowledge. The most common preparation mistake is studying only selected-response content and ignoring the constructed-response item. Practice writing a full response under time pressure, and rehearse explaining your reasoning clearly rather than just naming a strategy.
How should I organize my studying?
Start with the official preparation materials and the test framework for 063 so your review matches what is actually assessed. Take a practice test early to find weak areas, then study those areas first. Reserve at least a few sessions for timed constructed-response practice, since one written item carries weight that drills alone will not prepare you for.
Can I request alternative testing arrangements?
Yes. The NYSTCE program publishes a process for requesting alternative testing arrangements, and the test page links directly to it. Requests are generally made during registration and may require documentation, so read the policy well before your intended test date rather than waiting until you have already scheduled an appointment.
Do all questions on my test count toward my score?
Not necessarily. The NYSTCE program notes that tests may include questions being evaluated for future administrations and that these do not affect a candidate's score. Answer every question anyway, since you cannot identify which items are unscored, and treat each one as if it counts.
How do I register and find my score report date?
Registration is completed online through the NYSTCE website, where you select your test, date, and location. When you register you must agree to the testing rules and policies. Score report dates are posted separately on the program site, so check the posted date for your administration rather than assuming a fixed turnaround.