Praxis Passing Scores by State 2026: How to Find the Right Qualifying Score

There is no universal Praxis passing score

Praxis qualifying scores are set by states and licensing agencies, not by ETS as one national cutoff. The same test can have different qualifying-score requirements depending on where you want to be licensed. That is why a search result that says "the Praxis passing score is X" without naming a state and test code can be misleading.

Start with three pieces of information

1. Your certifying state or agency.
2. Your certification area.
3. The exact Praxis test name and test code.

Those three items are more important than a generic score chart. A state may adopt a newer test while another still uses an older series, and different license areas can require different assessments.

How to use the official Praxis score comparison tool

ETS maintains a qualifying-score comparison page. Select the state or agency, then select the exact test. The resulting table shows the test name, code and operational qualifying score for the chosen jurisdiction. If your state has recently changed test series, also check the state requirements page for transition dates or alternative accepted tests.

Why the test code matters

Praxis names can look similar across generations. Elementary Education, for example, includes older and newer assessments with different codes. Do not apply a score from one test code to another just because the subject name is similar. Use the code printed in your registration requirement.

Praxis Steps adds another reason to verify state rules

With the 2026 Praxis Steps rollout, some states are adopting Elementary Education Fundamentals tests 8002-8006. The modular model can change how a candidate completes the testing requirement, but the state still controls which test and qualifying standard counts for licensure. A Step result should be interpreted within that state's adopted pathway rather than as a national credential.

What if two states require different scores?

If you may seek licensure in more than one state, compare both jurisdictions using the official tool. A score that satisfies one state may not automatically satisfy another. Also review reciprocity rules separately; teacher-license reciprocity is not the same thing as a Praxis score requirement.

Do states ever change qualifying scores?

Yes. States can adopt new assessments, revise certification rules or change operational passing standards. That is why Exams.fit does not publish one frozen all-state table and pretend it will remain correct indefinitely. For a changing licensure requirement, the live ETS state and score tools should remain the final check.

How to interpret a score near the cutoff

Compare your official scaled score with the current qualifying score for the exact jurisdiction and test. Do not compare raw correct-answer counts with a scaled qualifying score. If you are exactly at or above the state requirement, confirm whether the state has any additional subtest, composite or program rules.

What if your score is below the state requirement?

First verify that you looked up the correct code. Then check retake rules, available test dates and whether your state has adopted a Steps-enabled pathway that permits targeted retesting for an applicable Elementary Education Fundamentals test. Build the retake around specific score-report evidence rather than simply repeating the same study routine.

Avoid these common mistakes

• Using another state's passing score.
• Using a score requirement for a retired test code.
• Confusing an unofficial score with the official score report.
• Assuming every certification area uses Praxis.
• Assuming Praxis Steps is available nationwide.
• Relying on an old forum post after a state has changed requirements.

Verification checklist

1. Open the official Praxis state-requirements page.
2. Select your state and license area.
3. Write down every required test code.
4. Open the official qualifying-score tool.
5. Match the exact code and state.
6. Save the requirement date or screenshot for your planning records.
7. Recheck before a retake or final certification application if several months have passed.

FAQ

Who sets Praxis passing scores?

States and licensing agencies set operational qualifying scores. ETS develops and delivers the tests but does not impose one national passing score.

Is the passing score the same in every state?

No. It can vary by jurisdiction and test.

Can I use my score in another state?

Possibly, but the destination state's certification rules and qualifying score control. Verify the exact requirement rather than assuming reciprocity.

For registration planning, continue to the Praxis registration and test-date guide.