NYSTCE Health Education
Health Education Content Specialty Test (CST) (073)
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Cheat sheet
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Give each week a clear focus.
ExploreCommon mistakes
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ExploreAbout this exam
The Health Education Content Specialty Test (CST), test code 073, is one of the New York State Teacher Certification Examinations (NYSTCE) content specialty tests listed in the NYSTCE test catalog. Candidates take it to demonstrate subject-matter knowledge in health education as part of New York State educator certification requirements. Because testing requirements depend on the certification type sought, candidates should confirm with the New York State Education Department which tests their certificate requires before scheduling.
The test is delivered as a computer-based test (CBT) and contains 90 selected-response items plus 1 constructed-response item. Total appointment time is 3 hours and 30 minutes, which includes 15 minutes for the CBT tutorial and nondisclosure agreement, leaving 3 hours and 15 minutes of testing time. The passing score is 520 and the test fee is $122. Appointments are offered year-round, Monday through Saturday excluding some holidays, at sites in New York State and nationwide. Test features are listed as none.
Note that the public test page does not enumerate the content domains or their percentage weights, so candidates should consult the official preparation materials and study guide linked from the test page for the framework. A reasonable preparation sequence is to read the framework first, then work domain by domain, and to practice writing at least one extended constructed response under timed conditions. Tests may include unscored questions being evaluated for future administrations.
What you'll study
About NYSTCE Health Education preparation
What is the format of the Health Education CST (073)?
It is a computer-based test (CBT) with 90 selected-response items and 1 constructed-response item. Your appointment includes a 15-minute CBT tutorial and nondisclosure agreement, so plan for the full 3 hours and 30 minutes even though testing time is 3 hours and 15 minutes.
How long is the test and how is the time split?
Total appointment time is 3 hours and 30 minutes. Of that, 15 minutes is for the CBT tutorial and nondisclosure agreement, leaving 3 hours and 15 minutes of actual testing time. Budget roughly two-thirds of the testing time for selected-response items so you have a solid block for the constructed response.
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. Score reports are released on posted score report dates, so check the score reporting schedule for your testing window.
How much does the test cost?
The test fee is $122. Complete fee and payment policy information is available through the NYSTCE registration and fee pages. Fees and refund rules are set by the program, so confirm the current amount in your registration account before you pay.
When and where can I take it?
Testing is by appointment year-round, Monday through Saturday, excluding some holidays. Test sites are located in New York State and nationwide, and you can check appointment availability and find the nearest test center through the NYSTCE site. Book early if you need a specific date or location.
Can I retake the test if I do not pass?
The public test page does not state a retake policy or waiting period, so confirm current retake rules in the NYSTCE testing policies before re-registering. Practically, review your score report for domain-level weaknesses, rebuild content knowledge in those areas, and rewrite a full constructed response before your next attempt.
What content does the exam cover?
The test page does not enumerate the content domains or their percentage weights. Use the official preparation materials and study guide linked from the test page to see the framework, then allocate study time by the weightings shown there rather than by guesswork.
What is the biggest mistake candidates make?
Treating the constructed response as an afterthought. It is a single item but requires organized, evidence-based writing under time pressure. Practice outlining and writing full responses with a timer, and leave enough time at the end of the test to review both the response and any flagged selected-response items.
How should I plan my study order?
Start with the official framework, then study the highest-weighted domains first and rotate through the rest. Finish with timed practice: full sets of selected-response items plus at least one constructed response written under exam conditions. Reviewing rationales for wrong answers is usually more valuable than repeating questions you already know.