Praxis Algebra I
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ExploreAbout this exam
Praxis Algebra I (5165) is a Praxis Subject Assessment from ETS, the same organisation behind the Praxis Core and other teacher-certification tests. Candidates take it to demonstrate subject knowledge in algebra for educator licensure; whether you need it, and the score you must reach, are set by your state rather than by ETS, so check your state's requirements before you register. The public ETS pages for this test confirm that it exists and that free study companions and official Praxis test prep are available, but they do not publish the number of questions, the time limit, the fee, or the passing score. Treat any figure you see elsewhere as unverified until you confirm it on the ETS site or in the Praxis Information Bulletin. To prepare, start with the free study companion for 5165, which sets out the test format and outline; build a study plan from that outline; then use official practice materials and, optionally, paid prep such as the Study.com subscription or Brainscape flashcards sold on the ETS site. ETS reports that 88.1% of people who use at least one Praxis test-prep product pass, based on a 2024 survey of 345 Praxis users. Work through practice questions under timed conditions and review every error by topic.
What you'll study
About Praxis Algebra I preparation
What is Praxis Algebra I (5165) and who takes it?
It is an ETS Praxis Subject Assessment that measures algebra knowledge for teacher licensure. Candidates usually take it when their state requires a subject-specific algebra test, often for middle or high school mathematics licences. Requirements vary by state, so confirm with your state agency that 5165, rather than another mathematics test, is the one you need before you pay.
How many questions are on the test and how long is it?
The public ETS pages do not state the question count or the time limit for 5165. Rather than rely on second-hand figures, download the free study companion for 5165 from the ETS prepare materials page, which describes the test format and outline, and check the Praxis Information Bulletin for current timing and delivery details.
What score do I need to pass?
ETS does not set a single national passing score for Praxis Subject Assessments. Your state or licensing agency sets the requirement, and it can differ from state to state. Use the passing scores by state resource on the ETS site, or contact your state agency directly, to find the score that applies to you.
How much does the test cost?
The fee is not published on the ETS pages available here, so treat any amount you see quoted online as unconfirmed. Check the test's registration page or the Praxis Information Bulletin for the current fee, and look at the fees and waivers section for any discount or voucher options you may qualify for.
Is the exam hard?
It is a subject test, so it assumes solid algebra rather than testing general teaching skill. The usual difficulty is not the algebra itself but the breadth: functions, equations, inequalities, graphing, and word problems under time pressure. Diagnose weak topics with a practice test first, then drill those topics instead of rereading material you already know.
What should I study first?
Begin with the free study companion for 5165, because it gives the official test format and outline. Map each outline topic to your own confidence, then take a full-length practice test to confirm where you actually lose points. Build your study order around those gaps, and finish with timed practice so pacing is not a surprise on test day.
How should I use practice tests?
Take at least one full practice test early as a diagnostic, then again closer to your date under real timing. After each run, log every wrong answer by topic and error type, whether it was a content gap, a misread question, or a pacing problem. Pacing and careless errors are common failure modes, and they respond well to timed repetition.
What common mistakes cause people to fall short?
Three recur: studying without checking the official outline, so time goes to topics that are lightly tested; practising untimed, so the real test feels rushed; and skipping error review, so the same mistakes repeat. A fourth is registering before confirming that your state accepts 5165 for the licence you want.
Can I retake the test, and how long are scores valid?
The ETS pages available here do not state the retake policy or score validity period for 5165. Both are governed by ETS and by your state, so check the reschedule, retake, or cancel section of the ETS site and your state's requirements rather than assuming a waiting period or validity window.
Is this site affiliated with ETS?
No. This is an independent study platform and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by ETS. Praxis and ETS are trademarks of their respective owners. Always confirm registration, fees, formats, and passing scores on the official ETS website and with your state licensing agency before making decisions.