Praxis Core
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ExploreAbout this exam
Praxis Core is ETS's academic-skills test for people entering educator preparation and licensure. In the ETS catalog it appears as Core Combined (5752; subtests 5713, 5723, 5733) and is described as measuring "academic skills in reading, writing, and mathematics for a career in education." It is typically taken early - by candidates applying to teacher prep programs or clearing a basic-skills requirement before subject-area tests - though each state sets its own certification requirements, so check your state's rules before registering. The combined test bundles reading, writing, and mathematics into one session; the three areas are weighted roughly equally. Reading and writing emphasize comprehension, usage, sentence structure, and essay writing; mathematics covers arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data interpretation, mostly at a level a strong high-school student would recognize. Because the content is foundational rather than specialized, the most common preparation mistake is underestimating it: candidates who review format and timing, work through practice questions under time pressure, and drill the specific math topics they have not used recently tend to do best. ETS publishes free study companions and free resources for Core tests, and offers paid official prep products. This page is independent study material and is not affiliated with or endorsed by ETS; verify all logistics on the official ETS Praxis site.
What you'll study
About Praxis Core preparation
What is the difference between Core Combined and the individual Core tests?
Core Combined (5752) is a single registration covering the three subtests 5713, 5723, and 5733 - reading, writing, and mathematics. ETS lists it at $150.00. Taking the combined test is usually simpler than registering separately, but confirm with your state or program which option they accept before you pay.
How much does Praxis Core cost?
The ETS Praxis catalog lists Core Combined (5752; subtests 5713, 5723, 5733) at $150.00. Fees and waivers are set by ETS and can change, and ETS maintains a separate Fees & Waivers page, so check current pricing on the official site before registering.
How long is the test and how many questions does it have?
The source material for this page does not specify a time limit or item count for Praxis Core, so we do not publish one. Timing and question counts are given in the ETS Information Bulletin and in the free study companions ETS offers for Core tests. Confirm the current figures there before you plan your pacing.
What score do I need to pass?
There is no single national passing score. Each state sets its own requirements for certification, and ETS tells candidates to check their state's requirements before registering. Look up your state's passing score on the ETS Praxis site and confirm it with your educator preparation program, since program requirements can be stricter.
What is the test format?
Praxis Core is a computer-delivered test. ETS lists multiple-choice questions for the reading and mathematics sections, and the writing section includes an essay component that is scored separately from the selected-response questions. ETS offers free study companions that describe the test format and outline for each subtest.
Can I retake the test if I do not pass?
ETS maintains a Reschedule, Retake, or Cancel page that covers retake rules, but the source material for this page does not state a waiting period or retake limit. Check that page and the Information Bulletin for the current policy, and note that some states or programs restrict how many attempts they will accept.
How hard is Praxis Core?
The content is foundational - reading comprehension, grammar and essay writing, and math through algebra and geometry - so difficulty usually comes from timing and rustiness rather than advanced material. Candidates who have not done math recently, or who write slowly, are the most likely to struggle. Timed practice is the best gauge.
In what order should I study for the three sections?
Diagnose first: take a practice set in each area and see which is weakest. Spend most of your time there, since all three areas carry roughly equal weight and a low score in one can sink the combined result. Keep short weekly review sessions going in your stronger areas so they do not decay.
What mistakes cause people to fall short?
The usual culprits are skipping a timed full-length practice run, neglecting the essay until the last week, and guessing at math formulas instead of drilling them. Another is registering for the wrong test - ETS warns that each state has its own requirements, so verify the correct test before you pay.
Is there a free way to prepare?
Yes. ETS offers free study companions and a Free Resources for Core Tests page, plus a Prep Finder and strategies and tips. Paid options include interactive practice tests and courses. Start with the free companions to learn the format and outline, then add paid practice only if you need more volume.