NYSTCE Social Studies
Social Studies CST (115)
More study resources
Cheat sheet
Keep the key ideas within reach.
ExploreKey terms
Get comfortable with the vocabulary.
ExploreStudy plan
Give each week a clear focus.
ExploreCommon mistakes
Understand the traps and how to avoid them.
ExploreCase studies
Put your knowledge to work in context.
ExploreExam-day guide
Prepare for the day ahead.
ExploreAbout this exam
The Social Studies CST (115) is one of the New York State Teacher Certification Examinations (NYSTCE), the content specialty tests used in New York State's educator certification process. Candidates typically take it to demonstrate subject-matter knowledge in social studies, often for certification in that field. The test is computer-based and includes 90 selected-response items and 1 constructed-response item. Candidates receive 3 hours and 15 minutes of testing time within a 3 hour 30 minute total appointment; the extra 15 minutes covers the CBT tutorial and nondisclosure agreement. The passing score is 520 and the test fee is $122. Appointments are available year-round, Monday through Saturday, excluding some holidays, at sites in New York State and nationwide. The source page does not enumerate domain weights, so check the official preparation materials for content specifications. To prepare, use the official preparation materials listed for this test, including the study guide and practice test, and review the testing policies you agree to when registering. Because test questions may include unscored items being evaluated for future administrations, do not assume every question counts toward your score. This page is an independent study resource and is not affiliated with or endorsed by NYSED or Pearson.
What you'll study
About NYSTCE Social Studies preparation
What is the format of the Social Studies CST (115)?
It is a computer-based test with 90 selected-response items and 1 constructed-response item. You get 3 hours and 15 minutes of testing time, plus 15 minutes for the CBT tutorial and nondisclosure agreement, for a total appointment time of 3 hours and 30 minutes.
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 and refund rules are set by the program.
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, according to the program's waiver notice.
When and where can I take the test?
Appointments are available year-round, Monday through Saturday, excluding some holidays. Test sites are located in New York State and nationwide. Check appointment availability and find the nearest test center through the official NYSTCE site.
How long does the appointment take?
Plan for 3 hours and 30 minutes total. That includes 15 minutes for the CBT tutorial and nondisclosure agreement and 3 hours and 15 minutes of testing time. Arrive early enough to complete check-in without cutting into your testing time.
How should I prepare for the constructed-response item?
The source page does not describe the constructed-response prompt, so use the official preparation materials for this test. Practice writing a clear, organized response under time pressure, and review the study guide and practice test to understand how your response will be evaluated.
Do all 91 items count toward my score?
Not necessarily. The program states that tests may include questions being evaluated for future administrations and that those questions do not affect a candidate's score. Treat every item seriously, but do not be thrown off by unfamiliar content.
What are common reasons candidates fall short?
The source does not publish failure statistics. In practice, candidates often lose points by mismanaging the 3 hour 15 minute testing time, neglecting the constructed-response item, or skipping the official study guide and practice test. Build a timed practice routine that includes both item types.
What should I study first?
Start with the official preparation materials for Social Studies CST (115), including the study guide and practice test. The source page does not list domain weights, so use those materials to identify the content areas covered and to set your study order rather than relying on guesswork.