Testing Requirements & Timing

How do I register for Praxis exams?

Access the Praxis website via the Praxis link at the bottom of this page. Then create an account, or log in if you already have one, and follow the instructions to choose the exam(s) you need. Next, choose when and where you would like to take the exam(s) and proceed through the payment process. NOTE: Ensure that you select both NSU and the SD DOE (if not added by default) to receive your scores. Failing to do so will result in additional costs and score report delays.

What Praxis exams do I need throughout the program?

Prior to admission: Praxis I CORE (if ACT composite below 19). Prior to student teaching: Praxis II (exact exam varies by program area). Prior to prgram compeltion: Praxis III PLT (exact exam varies by program area).

What Praxis scores do I need?

Required Praxis scores are set by the South Dakota Department of Education and vary by exam. Students should use the current Praxis/DOE guidance and the program’s current Praxis information sheet posted under resources in Exxat.

When do I take Praxis II?

Praxis II content exams must be passed before student teaching by the program deadline for the intended student teaching term. (Augsut 1st for fall and December 1st for spring placements.)

When do I take the Praxis III PLT?

The PLT is generally taken during the student teaching semester and is required for certification. If applying for the Advanced Student Teaching Permit, plan to take the PLT before applying.

Which Praxis exams do I take for dual majors (e.g., Elementary + SPED)?

You must take content exams for each major. For example, Elementary Education has multiple exam options (5000, 7811, 8000 series) while Special Education and other education majors use specific exams. See the Praxis website or Praxis Info Sheet in Exxaat for details.

What are the deadlines for Praxis score reporting?

For Program Admission: August 1st for fall and January 1st for spring. For Student Teaching: August 1st for fall and December 1st for spring.

What happens if I fail a Praxis exam?

You must retake the exam and earn the required passing score. If the exam is tied to a program deadline, failure or delayed score reporting may affect progression or student teaching eligibility.

Score Reporting

How do I ensure that my Praxis scores are sent to NSU?

During the registration process for Praxis exams, you must indicate that scores should be sent to NSU as well as the SD DOE (automatic if testing in SD).

How do I send my Praxis scores?

Praxis scores must be sent through ETS to the appropriate recipients, such as NSU and/or the South Dakota Department of Education. Students should verify recipients when registering and order additional score reports from ETS if needed.

What if I forget to have my Praxis scores sent to NSU?

You will need log into your Praxis account, or call or email Praxis, to order an additional score report be sent to NSU at an extra cost (currently $50).

What happens if my Praxis score report is delayed past the deadline?

You should:

• Take the test as early as possible to meet the testing deadlines.
• Communicate with the Director of Professional Preparation if timing may be close.
• Understand that official score availability timelines may affect eligibility.

Do Praxis scores automatically go to the South Dakota Department of Education?

Not always. Scores must be sent directly from ETS to the SD DOE If you tested in any other state and did not select SD DOE when testing, you must request a report from ETS to be sent.

Testing Accommodations

What if I struggle with test anxiety or need accommodations for the Praxis?

You may be eligible for testing accommodations through ETS. You must apply directly through ETS and submit documentation. NSU Accessibility Services can help guide you through the process. Start early, as approval takes time!