The New York State Teacher
Certification Examination (NYSTCE) multi-subject exam for secondary teachers
(grade 7 through grade 12) is an assessment used to verify that an educator
possesses the content knowledge, proficiency, and professional skills required
of a New York teacher in literacy, language arts, and mathematics.
Additionally, the exam ensures an educator has the skills necessary to promote
student achievement through appropriate and effective materials, instruction,
and assessment across all content areas.
Test components
The NYSTCE Multi-Subject: Secondary Teachers (Grade 7-Grade 12) is a computer-delivered exam consisting of three separate tests. In one test appointment, you can take one, two, or all three parts. The exam consists of the following parts:
- Part One – Literacy and English Language Arts
(241) - Part Two – Mathematics (244)
- Part Three – Arts and Sciences (245)
You must pass all three parts to
receive your certification.
Registration, dates, location, and cost
Registration for the exam is completed online at the NYSTCE website. You can register any time, day or night. When registering for the exam, determine how many tests you want to take in one appointment. There is no discount given to register for all three tests, so if it is better for you to take the tests one at a time, do it. If you’d rather knock them all out at once, do that. Know your testing style and schedule your exams so they work best for you.
Parts One and Two are $65.00 each, and Part Three is $49.00. It is $179.00 if you schedule all three parts in the same testing appointment. The test fee is payable only by Visa or MasterCard credit or debit card.
The test is administered at Pearson VUE Testing Centers located throughout New York and nationwide. You can schedule your appointment year-round, Monday through Saturday, holidays excluded.
Once your registration is
accepted, you have one year to schedule your exam(s).
Test format and design
All three parts are
computer-based tests (CBT). If alternative testing methods are required, you
must complete the request and receive approval before your exam date.
Part One: Literacy and English Language Arts (241)
Part One contains 40
selected-response questions and one constructed-response prompt. The competencies
in Part One include:
- Knowledge of Literacy & Language Arts. Competencies include knowledge of language and literacy development and knowledge of English Language Arts.
- Instruction in Foundational Literacy Skills. Competencies evaluated include instruction in vocabulary, instruction in language knowledge and text complexity and instruction in text comprehension.
- Instruction in English Language Arts. Your skills, knowledge, and abilities with the following competencies are evaluated: instruction in reading literature, instruction in reading informational text, instruction in writing different types of text, instruction in writing and research to build and present knowledge, and instruction in speaking and listening.
- Analysis, Synthesis, and Application.This section consists of one constructed-response question which assesses your ability to use different sources to analyze a student’s progress and develop appropriate instruction based on the analysis.
You have two hours to complete
this portion of the assessment.
Part Two: Mathematics (244)
Part Two contains 40
selected-response questions and one constructed-response item. The competencies
in Part Two include:
- Number and Quantity. Competencies include the Real Number system and ratios and proportional relationships.
- Algebra and Functions. The competencies in this section include algebra and functions, and linear, quadratic, and simple exponential functions.
- Geometry and Statistics. Your knowledge and abilities with geometry, data, statistics, and probability are examined.
- Analysis, Synthesis, and Application. Using your foundational content knowledge, you will analyze and synthesize assessment data about an individual student. You will identify errors and provide an accurate and analysis of a student’s mathematical knowledge. Using the information presented and your knowledge, present an instructional approach appropriate to the needs of the student.
You have two hours and fifteen
minutes to complete this exam. An on-screen calculator is available for your
use, and a formula reference sheet is provided.
Part Three: Arts and Sciences (245)
Part Two contains 40
selected-response questions. The competencies in Part Three include:
- Science and Technology. Competencies include the principles of scientific inquiry and investigation; concepts, principles, and theories about the physical setting and the living environment; technology and the principles of engineering design; and, relationships and connecting themes.
- Social Studies. You are asked to demonstrate your understanding of major ideas, eras, themes, developments, and turning points in the history of New York, the United States, and the world. Additional competencies include geography, economy, political principles and systems, citizenship, and the skills related to social studies.
- Fine Arts, Health and Fitness, Family and Consumer Science, and Career Development. Competencies evaluated are related to the visual arts, music, dance, drama, community health and safety, personal well-being, physical education, child development, consumer economics, personal resource management, and career development.
You have one hour to complete
Part Two.
Test Day
On the day of your exam, arrive early. After you complete the check-in procedures, you are escorted to your station where you are provided a formula sheet (if you are taking Part Two), scratch paper, and writing utensils. Before you begin your exam, there is a short tutorial. After the tutorial, your exam begins. When you have finished your test, the materials are collected, and you are allowed to leave the testing center.
Scoring and results
The passing score for all three parts is 520. You will receive unofficial results at the testing center. Up to four weeks after the testing window closes, your score report is made available in your online account. If you signed up for email notification at registration, your score report is emailed as well. The report includes detailed information on your performance, which gives you an insight into your strengths and weaknesses. You can retake the exam, if needed, after a 60 day waiting period.
How Can I Prepare for the NYSTCE Multi-Subject Grade 7-Grade 12 Exam?
That’s a great question. We’ve broken down the answer into three parts.
- Do yourself a favor and study. Do not walk in unprepared. We have recommended prep materials below, but that only helps if you actually try. Plus, studying is actually proven to be the best antidote to test anxiety.
- Take care of yourself. Make sure you’re eating well, exercising, and sleeping. All of these things are scientifically linked to brain performance. If you take care of your body, you’ll be helping your grades.
- Get a study guide or set of flashcards. Some people study better a certain way. Find your study strengths and make the most of them. We’ve tried to make it easy for you by tracking down the best study guide and flashcard set for your exam. Below you’ll see links to both!