The Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) Special
Education (043) is a computer-based exam that consists of 150 multiple-choice
questions. You will be given 3 hours to complete it.
Examinees
who are nursing mothers or have a condition covered under the Americans with
Disabilities Act that require special testing accommodations, may make this
request in writing. Support documentation must accompany this request. This
request must be signed by a specialist who is qualified to make the diagnosis
and request the specific accommodations.
Examples of special accommodations that may be granted include extra time, breaks that do not lessen your testing time, separate testing room, braille test materials, and large print booklet and answer sheet.
What domains and competencies are covered on this exam?
- Students with Disabilities – 20% of questions
- Assessment and Program Planning – 20% of questions
- Learning Environments and Instructional Practices – 40% of questions
- Foundations and Professional Practice – 20% of questions
Students with Disabilities
Competency 001: Comprehend the features of students who have disabilities.
Competency 002: Comprehend issues that impact the development, learning, and everyday life of students who have disabilities.
Assessment and Program Planning
Competency 003: Comprehend how to select and use informal and formal assessments.
Competency 004: Comprehend the methods and procedures for creating and implementing individualized plans.
Learning Environments and Instructional Practices
Competency 005: Comprehend the methods and procedures for planning and overseeing the learning environment of students with disabilities.
Competency 006: Comprehend the use of instructional practices for students with disabilities to succeed with the general curriculum.
Competency 007: Comprehend the methods and procedures for communication development, developing social skills, and behavioral interventions for students with disabilities.
Competency 008: Comprehend methods for instructing students with disabilities on functional living and successful transitioning.
Foundations and Professional Practice
Competency 009: Comprehend special education with regard to historical, legal, and ethical principles.
Competency 010: Comprehend the special education teacher’s roles and responsibilities.
What is the most convenient way to register?
Online. Payment can be made via VISA, MasterCard, debit, or credit card. If you are unable to pay using these methods, you may request instructions on how to pay using a check.
What is the cost of taking this exam?
$105
What are the testing dates and locations?
This exam is offered throughout the year, by appointment. There are many sites in Ohio and various states within the U.S. where you can take it.
What should I do the day of the exam?
Get to the testing center 15 minutes early, to allow yourself enough time to find the testing site, park, and check-in. Arriving to the center 15 minutes late will prevent you from taking the test. You will not receive a refund or credit if this is the case.
You will be required to present one form of identification. This ID must have your name, signature, and photo. It must also be current, not temporary, and written in English.
There are many items that are prohibited from the testing area. Some of these include a cell phone, other electronic communication devices, eyeglasses with communication and recording devices, written materials, backpack, purse, briefcase, and food/drink.
Can I take a break during the exam?
You are allowed to take a restroom break, if necessary. Any breaks taken will count against your available test-taking time.
What happens after I take the exam?
If during registration, you requested an emailed copy of your score report, that will be sent to you. Your score report will be available online for review within 2-4 weeks of testing.
What is the minimum passing score for this exam?
220
What happens if I don’t pass the exam?
After a 30-day waiting period, you can re-register and pay the fee to take the exam again.
How Can I Prepare for the OAE Special Education 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!