TExES STR 293
Science of Teaching Reading (293)
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 Science of Teaching Reading (293) is a Texas educator certification exam administered through the Texas Educator Certification Examination Program. It is a computer-administered test made up of 90 selected-response questions and 1 constructed-response question, and it includes a listening question that requires the use of a headset, so candidates are encouraged to review the feature tutorial before test day. The content centers on reading pedagogy and reading development-foundational skills and comprehension-together with reading assessment and instruction. The appointment runs 5 hours in total: 15 minutes for the CAT tutorial and compliance agreement, and 4 hours and 45 minutes of testing time. The passing score is 240 and the exam fee is $136, though additional fees may apply. Appointments are offered year round, first come, first served, at CAT sites in Texas and nationwide. Preparation materials, including the preparation manual and tutorials, are available through the Prepare section of the program website, and the Texas Education Agency hosts additional support resources and webinars. Note that exams may include questions being evaluated for future administrations; those questions do not affect your score.
What you'll study
About TExES STR 293 preparation
What is the format of the Science of Teaching Reading (293) exam?
It is a computer-administered test with 90 selected-response questions and 1 constructed-response question. One listening question requires a headset, and a tutorial for that feature is available to review before you test. The exam may also include questions being evaluated for future administrations that do not affect your score.
How long do I have to complete the exam?
You have 5 hours of total appointment time. That includes 15 minutes for the CAT tutorial and compliance agreement, leaving 4 hours and 45 minutes of actual testing time. Plan your constructed-response writing into that window rather than treating it as extra time.
What passing score do I need, and how much does the exam cost?
The passing score is 240. The exam fee is $136, and additional fees may apply depending on your registration circumstances. Review the payment information on the program website before registering so there are no surprises at checkout.
Can I retake the exam if I do not pass?
Yes. An exam can be retaken after 30 days, and you cannot register until the results of your last attempt have posted. If you are affiliated with an educator preparation program, you must request program approval to retest. You are limited to five attempts total-the first attempt plus four retakes-and a test-limit waiver from the Texas Education Agency is required beyond that.
When and where can I take the test?
Testing is by appointment, year round, and appointments are available on a first-come, first-served basis. CAT sites are located in Texas and nationwide. Check appointment availability early, since seat availability varies by location and date.
When will my scores be available?
Scores are released at 10:00 p.m. Central time on the published score report dates. Because you cannot register for a retake until your prior results post, check the score report dates when planning a second attempt so the 30-day wait does not catch you off guard.
How should I organize my studying?
Start with the preparation manual to map the content areas, then work through the tutorials and any practice materials in the Prepare section. Build a study sequence that moves from general reading pedagogy into foundational skills, comprehension, and assessment, and practice writing a full constructed response under time pressure.
What are the most common ways candidates lose points?
Candidates often memorize terminology without being able to apply it to classroom scenarios, skim the constructed-response prompt and write a general essay instead of addressing what is asked, and underestimate the listening question because they did not review the headset tutorial. Practicing scenario-based items and timed writing addresses all three.
What preparation materials are available?
The program website's Prepare section links to the preparation manual, tutorials, and other resources for this exam. The Texas Education Agency site also hosts information about the exam, related certificate requirements, and support resources such as webinars. Once registered, you can track suggested steps through My Candidate Roadmap.