The TExES exams evaluate the content knowledge of individuals aspiring to become certified teachers in Texas. The primary purpose of the exam is to certify that teachers entering Texas classrooms are fully prepared to provide quality education.

There are nearly 60 different content exams focusing on different teacher certifications and specific subject areas or grade levels. 

You must prepare diligently for each of these exams to ensure you have a comprehensive understanding of the content and are well-equipped to excel in the classroom.

In this guide, we discuss the significance of thorough preparation for each specific exam to fulfill the exam’s purpose and your role as an effective educator. We’ll also share tips on exam prep best practices to help you ace your TExES tests.

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What is a TExES Exam?

The TExES (Texas Examinations of Educator Standards) exam is a series of assessments designed to evaluate the readiness of aspiring certified educators in the state of Texas. 

All new teachers in Texas must pass the TExES exam to obtain the license to teach in the state.

To pass the TExES exam, candidates must demonstrate their expertise in specific content areas related to the subject or grade level they intend to teach.

Most TExES exams are taken on a computer. However, accommodations are available for students requiring alternative methods such as speaking, typing, or braille.

Other features of the exam include:

  • The exam format includes selected-response multiple-choice problems ranging from 70 to 200+ questions. Some tests may also include 3-5 speaking or writing-constructed tasks, which assess the ability to communicate effectively.
  • The appointed times for subjects in the CORE exams can range from 35 to 115 minutes, depending on the specific exam.
  • A minimum passing score of 240 is required for most TExES tests.
  • For School Counselor and Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities for Trade tests, candidates must achieve a “Pass” status rather than a numerical score.
  • Most TExES exams are available year-round, with several allowing candidates to schedule appointments based on their convenience.

Note: Test centers offering computer-based testing are located within Texas, and some tests are also available at testing centers nationwide. Check with the specific test centers for availability.

Who Can Take a TExES Exam?

The specific timing for taking the exams may vary depending on your academic and career goals. Still, it’s crucial to ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria and obtain any necessary permissions if you are in a certification program.

The test can be taken by:

  • College graduates or certified teachers: TExES exams are designed for individuals who meet specific qualifications. To be eligible to take a TExES exam, you must either be a college graduate or a certified teacher.
  • Certification program candidates: If you are in the process of completing a teacher certification program, you require permission from the program or institution offering the program to take the TExES exam to ensure that you are adequately prepared for the examination.
  • Already certified teachers: Certified teachers looking to enhance their qualifications or add additional teaching certifications may take the content exams at any time. The exams allow experienced educators to demonstrate their expertise in a new subject or grade level.

The ideal timing for taking the TExES exam is after completing a college degree and before entering a certification program. 

Taking the test during this phase allows prospective teachers to establish a solid foundation of subject knowledge and teaching skills before pursuing certification. However, checking specific program requirements and prerequisites is essential to determine the best timing for your circumstances.

Understanding TExES Scores

In this section, we want to dig deeper to help you understand the following facts about the TExES exam scores.

  • Score range: TExES exams are scored on a scale between 100 and 300. The scale is used to measure a candidate’s performance on the test.
  • Minimum passing score: In most cases, a minimum passing score of 240 is required to successfully pass a TExES exam. Achieving this score indicates that a candidate has demonstrated readiness in their chosen subject area.
  • Evaluation: For exams that include constructed-response questions, the answers are evaluated by professionals with expert knowledge in the specific content field. Selected-response multiple-choice questions are evaluated by a computer.
  • Score availability: TExES exam scores are available to test takers by 10:00 PM Central time on the score date. This date is usually within 7-10 days after the testing date. Candidates can access their scores through email or the official score reporting system.

Be sure to review your scores carefully to assess your results accurately.

Understanding TExES Questions

When you take a TExES exam, you can expect multiple-choice and content-constructed questions.

Multiple-choice questions provide you with a stem or prompt followed by four answer choices. You are required to select the correct answer from the provided options.

Content-constructed questions are open-ended and may require you to provide essay or short answer responses. The format of these questions can vary and may include:

  • Entry boxes: Require you to type in a specific response or numerical value.
  • Checkboxes: You’ll be asked to select multiple correct answers from a list of options.
  • Choosing a graphic: Involves selecting or interacting with a graphic or image.
  • Highlighting a sentence:  These questions require identifying or highlighting a specific sentence or section of text.
  • Drag and drop: These questions involve arranging elements in a specific order or category by dragging and dropping items.
  • Drop-down menus: You need to choose the correct response from a drop-down menu.

CORE exams such as the CORE Subjects 4-8 (211) cover multiple subjects and are a 5-hour long exam. It includes a 15-minute CAT (computer-administered testing) tutorial at the beginning to help you become familiar with the test interface.

How to Prepare for the TExES Exam

The TExES exams certify that teachers entering classrooms in Texas are fully equipped to teach effectively from day one. 

To succeed in these exams, you must prepare thoroughly. You need to understand your subject matter and be well-versed in the content areas covered by your specific TExES exam.

Seek out and follow high-quality preparation materials and study resources. The proper study materials increase your chances of success. 

Let’s look at how you can prepare effectively for the TExES exams.

Practice Tests

Practice tests are designed to mimic the format and content of the actual exams and are essential in the preparation process. 

They’re helpful in the following ways:

  • Simulating the exam: Practice tests closely resemble the real TExES exams regarding question types, format, and time constraints. When you take practice tests, you get a feel for the actual exam, reducing anxiety and stress on test day.
  • Identifying strengths and weaknesses:  As you work through the questions, you can identify the areas where you excel and the areas that require further study. Practice tests enable you to assess your knowledge and tailor your preparation to focus on your weaknesses.
  • Timing: Taking practice tests under timed conditions helps in practicing managing your time effectively. It’s especially important because TExES exams have strict time limits.
  • Building confidence: Confidence is a key factor in performing well on the actual exam. Your confidence grows as you become more comfortable with the test format and questions. 
  • Tracking progress: Practice tests provide a benchmark to evaluate your progress during the preparation period.  You can measure how your scores improve over time, helping you see the fruits of your preparation efforts.
  • Reducing anxiety: Familiarity with the test format and types of questions reduces test anxiety, which is most common as the exam approaches.  Practice tests help you feel more at ease during the actual exam.

After completing a practice test, review the answers and explanations for correct and incorrect responses to reinforce your understanding. It’s a highly effective way to prepare for TExES exams and increase your chances of success.

Regular Study Schedule

Maintaining a regular study schedule is crucial when preparing for the TExES exams. Consistency in your study routine enhances your preparation and probability for success. 

Regularity helps in creating a routine for studying, making it easier to stay committed and avoiding procrastination. A schedule allows you to allocate sufficient time to cover all the necessary topics.

Learning is more effective when information is spaced out over time. A regular schedule allows you to review and reinforce what you’ve learned, improving retention.

Here’s how to maintain a regular study schedule:

  • Break down your study goals into manageable tasks to help you allocate time effectively.
  • Create a calendar that outlines your study schedule for the week with specific time slots for studying and stick to them.
  • Study at the same time each day, if possible, to create a habit and reduce the need for decision-making about when to study.
  • Avoid studying for extended periods without breaks. Instead, plan for short, focused study sessions with breaks to keep your mind fresh.
  • Use tools like planners, apps, or online calendars to organize your schedule and set reminders for study sessions.
  • Schedule your most challenging study tasks during your most productive hours when your mind is most alert.
  • Create a conducive study environment by minimizing distractions and finding a quiet, comfortable place to study.
  • Reward yourself for meeting your study goals to serve as positive reinforcement.

A regular study schedule boosts your preparedness and confidence while working towards your teaching certification.

Study Group

A study group is a small group of individuals with shared academic goals who come together to study and review course materials. They provide a supportive setting for exam preparation.

Study groups have several benefits when you’re preparing for the TExES exam.

  • Diversity: Study groups bring together individuals with different backgrounds and experiences. Diversity offers varied perspectives, new concepts, and learning approaches, boosting your exam preparedness.
  • Engaged learning: Study groups encourage participation and discussion. You can ask questions, explain concepts to others, and engage in debates, all promoting a deeper understanding of different topics.
  • Accountability: Group members hold each other accountable for staying on track with study schedules. They help prevent procrastination and maintain motivation.
  • Clarification: In a study group, you can seek immediate clarification when you encounter difficulties or have questions, helping reduce frustration and wasted time.
  • Sharing resources: Group members share resources, such as notes, study guides, or recommended study materials, expanding your access to valuable learning materials.
  • Discussions: Study groups allow for in-depth discussions about the exam content, helping members explore topics from various angles and fill gaps in their knowledge.
  • Feedback: Members can provide constructive feedback on your understanding and study methods for self-improvement.
  • Reduced isolation: Studying for exams can sometimes be isolating. Study groups provide a community, reducing feelings of isolation and enhancing morale.

Preparation Manuals

Preparation manuals are study guides provided by the official TExES website. They are designed to help candidates prepare effectively for the exams. 

Here’s how preparation manuals can assist you in getting ready for the TExES exams:

  • Preparation manuals offer a deep overview of the content areas covered by each specific TExES exam—for example, the knowledge required to pass the exam and the structure of the test.
  • They provide detailed information on the exam format, including the types of questions you can expect. Such information is essential for familiarizing yourself with the test’s structure.
  • Preparation manuals include sample questions, giving you a practical sense of the types of questions you’ll encounter in the exam. Working through these questions allows you to assess your knowledge and practice applying what you’ve learned.
  • For the sample questions, preparation manuals often provide answer explanations. These explanations clarify why a particular answer is correct or incorrect, helping you understand the underlying concepts better.
  • The manuals include study tips and strategies to help you prepare more effectively. These may cover topics such as time management, test-taking techniques, and ways to maximize your study time.
  • The manuals guide you in planning your study schedule, helping you structure your preparation over time and ensuring you cover all relevant content.
  • Because the official TExES program provides preparation manuals, you can trust that the content is accurate and aligned with the exam. Using official resources is a reliable way to prepare for the TExES exams.

Preparation Courses

Preparation courses are educational programs specifically designed to help individuals prepare for exams. These courses are offered in in-person classes, online courses, and self-paced modules. 

The benefits of enrolling in preparation courses when preparing for TExES exams include:

  • Expert guidance: Preparation courses are led by experienced educators and subject matter experts who are well-versed in the content and format of the exams. 
  • Customized study plans: Many courses tailor the study plan to your needs. They assess your strengths and weaknesses and provide personalized guidance on where to focus your efforts.
  • Comprehensive coverage: These courses often offer in-depth coverage of the exam content, ensuring you don’t miss any critical topics. 
  • Strategic learning: Courses provide an organized learning environment to help you stay on track with your study schedule, reducing the risk of procrastination.
  • Interactive learning: Courses frequently include interactive elements such as group discussions, peer learning, and opportunities to ask questions, enhancing your understanding of complex topics.
  • Practice assessments: Many courses offer practice assessments, including mock exams and quizzes. These assessments simulate the exam experience and allow you to gauge your readiness.
  • Immediate feedback: Instructors and course materials can provide immediate feedback on your performance, helping you understand your strengths and areas needing improvement.
  • Test-taking strategies: Preparation courses cover test-taking strategies, such as time management, how to approach different question types and techniques for reducing test anxiety.
  • Accountability: Enrolling in a course brings about accountability. Knowing that you have scheduled classes or assignments that you’ve spent money on can help you stay motivated and committed to your study plan.

Besides test prep, preparation courses offer opportunities to network with fellow test-takers who share your academic goals. You can learn from their experiences, share study resources, and provide mutual support even beyond the exam.

TExES Exam Registration

As you prepare for the TExES exam, understand the registration process so you don’t miss an important step.

To begin the registration process, create an account on the official NES (National Evaluation Series) website. The account will be your gateway to registering for the TExES exam.

After creating your NES account, you can use it to select the specific TExES exam you wish to take and schedule an exam date. Plan your exam date carefully because you’ll have 170 days from the time of registration to schedule your exam.

The cost of TExES exams can vary slightly, but the majority of TExES exams cost a fee of $116. Check the NES website for up-to-date pricing information on your tests because prices may change over time.

If you do not pass the TExES exam on your first attempt, you can retake it up to four times, but there’s a minimum waiting period of 45 days between each attempt. You must pay the full examination fee for each retake.

Become a Certified Teacher in Texas

The TExES exam is critical to becoming a certified teacher in Texas. It serves as a means to verify that aspiring educators are skilled enough to excel in the classroom.

The exam assesses your content-area expertise and teaching skills. Therefore, you must prepare adequately using resources such as practice tests, study schedules, study groups, preparation manuals, and courses.

If you want to embark on a fulfilling teaching career, it’s time to start preparing for the TExES exam. Explore available test prep resources and set a plan in motion to achieve your goal of becoming a certified teacher in Texas.