COVID-19 Update: Many Praxis tests can now be taken at home. Learn more from ETS.
To earn a teaching license in Colorado, you’ll need to demonstrate proficiency in the subject you want to teach. Getting your bachelor’s degree may be enough, but in most cases you’ll also need to pass a state-approved content test. But don’t sweat it! This guide helps you figure out what tests you need to take, when you need to take them and how to prepare.
Note for out of state educators: According to the Colorado Department of Education, “Educator licenses do not transfer to Colorado across state lines.” If you took any of the assessments that Colorado requires as part of your out-of-state licensure, you can apply these in Colorado if the scores are current.
To become a teacher in Colorado, you will first need to complete a four-year degree at a state-accredited college or university. In Colorado, these programs require that you take either the SAT or ACT to be considered for admission. If you’re already enrolled in a college or university, chances are you’ve already taken one of these tests.
While there is no passing score for these core academic tests, the higher the score, the better your chances are of being accepted into a program. The Colorado Department of Higher Education maintains this handy chart for average acceptance scores to the top universities in the state.
Depending on the subject you wish to teach and the educator prep program you choose, you may need to take and pass a subject exam during your program or before you apply.
Subject area assessments let teaching programs and the state know you’ve mastered content in the area you want to teach. There are different versions of the Praxis test for each endorsement you want to earn. Most EPPs list taking the Praxis as a program requirement, so you will most likely take one of the subject assessment tests before you finish your training.
Here are some examples of endorsements that may require a specific Praxis subject assessment. The Colorado Department of Education maintains a full list.
The test most candidates have questions about is the subject area assessment. We’ll guide you from registration through test preparation and score reporting. Read on!
There are some universal things you can do to prepare for your assessments, like building good study habits and managing your time. But you can also find preparation resources like books and tutors for each test. Find some ideas here.
We recommend a two-pronged approach to structuring your study time:
Now that you’re registered, let’s get you ready! There are a number of test prep options available from the test-makers directly, and some third-party services have come up with options, too. These resources offer a variety of prep strategies, from study guides and practice tests to one-on-one coaching.
ETS offers Praxis prep guides, webinars and interactive practice tests. Some materials, such as study plans and testing guides with practice questions, are free. Interactive practice tests can cost $20-50. You can find preparation materials for all tests required for certification in Colorado, including:
Browse this list to see all Colorado Praxis tests and their preparation materials.
Finally, there are a number of additional free and paid options for getting prepped for the subject area examinations.
While we haven’t personally vetted the resources below, you might find these useful as well:
You’ve settled on a content area, verified which test is required for your program, studied hard and now you’re ready to take the test.
Make sure you:
See ETS’s Test Day Overview resource for the nitty-gritty.
Your Praxis test results will be available in your online account on the score release date. To find out when your score will be available, review the Score Release Dates section of the Getting Your Praxis Results page.
Still have questions about the tests or your application process? You can start an application checklist or sign up for a 1:1 chat with a current Colorado educator through our coaching program.