NYSTCE SDBL (105/106)
NYSTCE Students with Disabilities (Birth–Grade 2) (105) and Students with Disabilities (Grades 1–6) (106)
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ExploreAbout this exam
The NYSTCE Students with Disabilities (Birth–Grade 2) (105) and Students with Disabilities (Grades 1–6) (106) are New York State teacher certification exams for candidates who want to teach students with disabilities in early childhood or elementary settings. The tests are designed for aspiring special education teachers, as well as general education teachers seeking the Students with Disabilities extension. Both exams assess knowledge of foundational special education concepts, legal and ethical requirements, characteristics of students with disabilities, assessment and program planning, instructional design and delivery, learning environment management, collaboration, and professional practice. Each exam includes multiple-choice questions and a constructed-response task. The exams are computer-based and administered at testing centers or via remote proctoring. To prepare, candidates should review the official NYSTCE test frameworks for each exam, which list the domains and competencies covered. Study materials should align with those frameworks. Candidates should practice applying concepts to realistic classroom scenarios, since many questions require analysis and decision-making rather than recall. Building familiarity with disability categories, IEP development, evidence-based instructional strategies, and behavioral supports is essential. Practice writing constructed responses under timed conditions is also recommended. The official NYSTCE website provides current information on registration, fees, test dates, and scoring, as well as free test frameworks and preparation materials. Candidates should consult that site for the most up-to-date details, as policies and procedures may change.
What you'll study
About NYSTCE SDBL (105/106) preparation
What is the format of the NYSTCE Students with Disabilities exams?
Both exams are computer-based. They include multiple-choice questions and at least one constructed-response task. The constructed-response task requires you to write a detailed answer to a scenario or prompt. The official NYSTCE website provides the exact number of questions and time limits for each exam.
How difficult are the exams?
Difficulty varies by candidate. The exams require both broad knowledge of special education and the ability to apply it to classroom scenarios. Many candidates find the constructed-response section challenging because it demands clear, organized writing under time pressure. Thorough preparation using the official test framework is the best way to manage difficulty.
Can I retake the exam if I don't pass?
Yes, you can retake the exam. New York State has a waiting period between attempts and limits on how many times you can test within a certain timeframe. The official NYSTCE website publishes the current retake policy, including waiting periods and fees.
How much time do I have to complete the exam?
Each exam has a set time limit. The exact time varies by exam and is published on the NYSTCE website. You should check the official site for the current timing, as it may change. Plan to arrive early and use the on-screen timer to pace yourself.
In what order should I study the domains?
Start with the foundations and legal/ethical domain to build context. Then study student characteristics and assessment, as these inform instructional planning. Move to instructional design and delivery, which is the largest domain. Finally, cover learning environment, collaboration, and professional practice. Integrate constructed-response practice throughout.
What are common reasons candidates fail?
Common reasons include insufficient knowledge of disability characteristics, weak understanding of IEP and legal requirements, poor application of instructional strategies to scenarios, and neglecting the constructed-response section. Many candidates also underestimate the need to practice writing structured, evidence-based responses under timed conditions.
Are the 105 and 106 exams the same?
No. Exam 105 focuses on birth through grade 2, while exam 106 focuses on grades 1 through 6. The domains are similar, but the content and scenarios are tailored to the respective age groups. You should take the exam that matches the certification area you are seeking.
Where can I find official preparation materials?
The NYSTCE website offers free test frameworks, which outline the domains and competencies, and preparation guides. Some materials may include sample questions and constructed-response examples. Always use the official framework as your primary study guide, and supplement with reputable textbooks and practice scenarios.
How is the constructed-response section scored?
Constructed responses are scored by trained raters using a rubric that evaluates your understanding of the topic, application to the scenario, and quality of writing. The official NYSTCE website provides scoring guides and sample responses. Practice writing clear, well-organized answers that address all parts of the prompt.