The Praxis Professional School Counselor (5421) Exam is designed to evaluate the readiness of entry-level school counselors to serve in this capacity.
This computer-delivered exam is 2 hours in length, and includes 120 selected-response questions. There may be some questions included that do not count toward your score.
Keep in mind that your score is based on the number of questions you get correct. There will be no deduction of points for questions you answer incorrectly, so even if you are not 100% sure of the answer to the question, always make an educated guess.
Accommodations are available for individuals with conditions that meet the Americans with Disabilities Act requirements. You must apply for these accommodations before registering for the exam.
Some of these testing accommodations include small group setting, Braille test materials, large print test materials, extended testing time, hand-held magnifier, seat cushion, additional breaks, and omission of listening section.
What are the categories and topics covered on this exam?
There are 4 areas that will be assessed on this exam. The areas are:
- Foundations – 18%
- Delivery of Services – 45%
- Management – 15%
- Accountability – 22%
Under the Foundations category, the topics that will be evaluated include the role and history of the professional school counselor, human growth and development, and ethics and legal issues.
Under the Delivery of Services category, the topics that will be evaluated include guidance and counseling AND consultation and collaboration.
Under the Management category, the topics that will be evaluated include how to use technology in terms of guidance and counseling, how the guidance and school programs impact the complete educational process, everything from creating to executing the guidance and counseling program, how the guidance and counseling program affects at-risk students, and managing referrals.
Under the Accountability category, the topics that will be evaluated include the need of accountability with regard to guidance and counseling, goals and methods of program, using assessments to improve the program, data-gathering methods, different assessment types, standardized testing, measurement principles, validity and reliability, interpreting various assessments, and how cultural, linguistic, and disability factors affect performance, accommodations, and interpretation.
What is the most convenient way to register for the exam?
Registering online and paying using a credit card, debit card, or PayPal is the most convenient method. Once you have registered, you must print your admission ticket and take it with you on exam day.
If you are not able to register online, you may do so via mail, using the Test Authorization Voucher request form OR over the phone. If you decide to use the phone option, payment must be made by credit card or debit card, and you will be charged an additional $35 fee.
What is the cost of the exam?
The cost of the Praxis Professional School Counselor Exam is $120. If you are taking the exam in Nevada, a $5 surcharge will also apply.
What are the testing locations?
The test is offered at various sites throughout the world. Search for the one that is closest to your geographic location.
What should I do the day of the exam?
Bring your admission ticket and a valid (not photocopied or expired) form of identification that includes your name, signature, and photo.
Examples of acceptable forms of ID include passport, passport card, driver’s license, national identification, and military identification card.
If you present a form of identification that does not have your signature, a supplemental ID will be required. Acceptable forms of supplemental ID are student identification or a letter from your education institution, verifying your identity.
The testing center will supply you with pens and/or pencils, therefore, you are not allowed to bring your own. Additionally, personal items such as a cell phone, calculator, handbag, briefcase, water bottle, study materials, tablets, and jewelry (with the exception of an engagement/wedding ring) are also prohibited from the testing area.
What happens after I take the exam?
You will receive an unofficial test report on the screen immediately after completing the exam. Two to three weeks after taking the exam, your official score report will be available for review.
What happens if I don’t pass the exam?
Great news! You will have the opportunity to retake the exam once every 21 days, not including your initial testing date.
How Can I Prepare for the Praxis Professional School Counselor Test?
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!