1. Pass a Commissioner-approved basic skills test. Currently, the only approved test¹ is the Praxis Core Academic Skills with passing scores as follows: Reading: 156, Math: 150, Writing: 162;
   or
2. Demonstrate a score on the SAT, ACT, or GRE at or above the cut score for the year in which the exam was taken (see cut scores below).

• SAT
• If taken before 4/1/1995: Math 520, Verbal 480
• If taken between 4/1/1995 to 2/28/2016: Math 540, Verbal 560
• If taken on or after 3/1/2016: Math 570, Evidence-Based Reading and Writing 610

• ACT
• If taken before 8/28/1989: Math 23, English 20
• If taken on or after 8/28/1989: Math 23, English 23

• GRE
• If taken before 8/1/2011: Quantitative 720, Verbal 530
• If taken on or after 8/1/2011: Quantitative 156, Verbal 155

¹ If a candidate completed and passed the Pre-Professional Skills Test (PPST/Praxis I) prior to June 2014, the Department will accept passing scores on those exams to satisfy the basic skills requirement (passing scores on the PPST are as follows: Reading: 175, Math: 174, Writing: 173).

² Regulations allow candidates who achieved a score on the SAT, ACT or GRE that was “approximately equal to the top-third percentile score for all test takers in the year the respective test was taken” to be exempt from taking the Praxis Core; these cut scores represent that approximate “top-third percentile score.”

The New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) will accept the highest score on each test section, regardless of test date.

Candidates must demonstrate competency in Math, Reading, and Writing utilizing the appropriate sections of either Praxis CORE, SAT, ACT, or GRE. The required cut scores (noted above) must be met on each of the tests and/or sections used to meet the requirement.

• A CEAS educator preparation program may determine the evidence required to demonstrate a candidate’s score on a test.

• CE candidates are responsible for ensuring official test scores are sent to the NJDOE. Official Praxis Core, SAT, ACT, and GRE scores must be reported directly to the NJDOE using the Designated Institution (DI) code assigned to the NJDOE, as listed in the chart below. Note: if you choose to have your score(s) expedited to the NJDOE, this does not mean the evaluation of your case will be expedited.                             

• Review Testing Requirements for Certification in New Jersey for additional guidance.

• To share questions or comments, please email test.questions@doe.nj.gov