Praxis Core vs Praxis 5001
Praxis Core tests basic academic skills (reading, writing, math) for program ADMISSION. Praxis 5001 tests teaching content knowledge (reading/language arts, math, science, social studies) for CERTIFICATION. You take Core to get INTO nursing school; you take 5001 to become a licensed teacher AFTER graduation.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Praxis Core | Praxis 5001 |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators | Praxis Elementary Education: Multiple Subjects |
| Exam Cost | $270 (3 tests at $90 each) | $180 combined or $256 separate |
| Passing Score | Varies by state (150-162) | Varies by state (155-165 per subtest) |
| Questions | 152 across 3 tests | 245 across 4 subtests |
| Time Limit | 4 hrs 30 min combined | 4 hrs 35 min |
| Study Time | 40-80 hours | 60-120 hours |
| Difficulty | Moderate | Challenging |
| Prerequisites | None - high school level content | Complete teacher prep program |
| Exam Body | ETS | ETS |
Key Differences
- 1Praxis Core: program ADMISSION; Praxis 5001: teacher CERTIFICATION
- 2Praxis Core: high school level content; Praxis 5001: elementary teaching content
- 3Praxis Core: 3 tests; Praxis 5001: 4 subtests
- 4Praxis Core: BEFORE teacher prep; Praxis 5001: AFTER completing program
- 5Praxis Core: tests YOUR skills; Praxis 5001: tests what you'll TEACH
- 6Praxis Core: $270 total; Praxis 5001: $180 combined
- 7Typically 2-4 years between taking these exams
What Each Exam Allows You To Do
Praxis Core
- Qualify for admission to teacher prep programs
- Demonstrate basic academic skills
- Meet state requirements for teacher candidates
- Proves readiness for education coursework
Praxis 5001
- Obtain elementary teacher certification
- Teach grades K-6 in most states
- Demonstrate content knowledge across all subjects
- Final step to becoming a licensed teacher
Who Should Take Each Exam?
Take the Praxis Core if you...
- →Students entering teacher prep programs
- →Career changers pursuing teaching
- →College juniors starting education major
- →Those needing program admission
Take the Praxis 5001 if you...
- →Nursing school graduates ready for licensure
- →Those completing teacher prep programs
- →Elementary education majors
- →Career changers finishing alt-cert programs
Which Should You Take First?
You MUST take Praxis Core first if required by your state/program - it's for nursing school admission. You take Praxis 5001 years later, after completing your teacher preparation program, to become certified. They're sequential steps, not alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
QDo I need both Praxis Core AND Praxis 5001?
In many states (like Tennessee, Pennsylvania, Virginia), yes. Praxis Core is for program admission; Praxis 5001 is for certification. Some states have eliminated Praxis Core or offer exemptions based on SAT/ACT scores or GPA.
QWhich is harder - Praxis Core or Praxis 5001?
Praxis 5001 is generally considered harder. It covers four subject areas with greater depth, has more questions (245 vs 152), and requires specialized content knowledge. However, difficulty depends on your strengths.
QCan I skip Praxis Core with good SAT/ACT scores?
Many states offer exemptions. For example, Louisiana exempts with SAT 1100+ or ACT 22+. Maryland exempts with SAT 1180+ or ACT 24+. Check your state's specific exemption policies.
QHow long between Praxis Core and Praxis 5001?
Typically 2-4 years. You take Praxis Core for program admission, complete your nursing program (2-4 years), then take Praxis 5001 for certification. Both scores are valid for 10 years.
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