What are the Tests?
There are (at least) two NYSTCE (New York State Teacher Certification Exams) tests that will need to be done before gaining initial certification.
- EAS - Educating All Students Test: designed for teachers and school building leaders to ensure they understand how to address the learning needs of diverse student populations. Generally, students take this after completing EDU 250 or EDU 504 (if applicable).
- CST - Revised Content Specialty Tests: will be aligned with the NYS Learning Standards, including the NextGen, and are designed to assess knowledge in content area of certification. Generally, students take this during their Methods class. Be aware that depending on your major, you may have more than one CST.
These tests currently consist of multiple choice questions (application of teaching concepts and content knowledge questions) as well as a writing section (For Example: You’re given a case about a student struggling in a content area. Explain how you would accommodate their needs and defend your approach). Testing is available year-round by appointment Monday - Saturday, excluding some holidays, and registration can only be done on internet by selecting "Register Now" on the NYSTCE website.
Creating an NYSTCE Account
You will need an account to register and take any required tests. It is highly recommended that you DO NOT use your Fredonia email address when creating an account, as there is a chance that you may be locked out of your account after you've graduated. In addition, it is also mandatory that your name appears the same on both your NYSTCE and your TEACH accounts so that your official exam scores transmit and match properly. Any discrepancies in spelling, middle initial, or typo could cause the system to fail to link your test scores to your certification profile.
Registration can be done here.
Important Notes on Testing
- Register at least three days in advance, to allow for time to process your application. It is also generally recommended to register as early as possible, as seating is limited (especially on days off from school) and is subject to change. Before you register, you can check the seat availability and review testing locations at the testing centers.
- You might be able to take some of the exams on the same day. If you are taking a multi-subject test (3 separate parts), you can register for one part or all parts and Adolescence Education majors, you might be able to schedule the testing for the EAS and CST on the same day, as long as the times for the test do not overlap. Note that while possible, it is not often recommended.
- When you receive your scores, it is the STUDENT'S responsibility to retain copies of their scores. During the job search you may be asked by school districts to provide copies of your scores. The College of Education does not receive your scores and you do not need to provide the college with this information.
- You will receive your score report approximately 4-6 weeks after taking the exam. Score reporting dates can be found on the NYSTCE website here. Within your score report, you will find the score you received, as well as directions on how to interpret the score.
- As long as you have appropriate documentation, testing accommodations are permitted.
The Tests You Are Responsible For Are as Follows:
Initial Certification: Childhood — Grades 1-6
(For those getting a Middle School Extension, the Initial Certification will be in your area of study – Grades 7 - 9 {ex. Mathematics – Grades 7 - 9})
- Educating All Students Test (EAS) - (201)
- Content Specialty Test (CST)
1. Multi-Subject: Teachers of Childhood (Grade 1 - Grade 6) - (Three part test - 221/222/245)
(If you are getting a 7-9 Middle School Extension, you will also need to take the CST in the content area of the 7 - 9 Middle School Extension)
Initial Certifications: Childhood — Grades 1 - 6 AND Students with Disabilities — Grades 1 - 6
(For those getting a Middle School Extension, the Initial Certification will be in your area of study – Grades 7 - 9 {ex. Mathematics – Grades 7 - 9})
- Educating All Students Test (EAS) - (201)
- Content Specialty Tests (CST)
1. Multi-Subject: Teachers of Childhood (Grade 1 - Grade 6) - (Three part test - 221/222/245)
2. Students with Disabilities - (060) (Recommend taking after completion of EDU 355)
(If you are getting a 7 - 9 Middle School Extension, you will also need to take the CST in the content area of the 7 - 9 Middle School Extension
Initial Certification: Early Childhood — Birth - Grade 2 AND Initial Certification: Childhood — Grades 1 - 6
- Educating All Students Test (EAS) - (201)
- Content Specialty Tests (CST)
1. Multi-Subject: Teachers of Childhood (Grade 1 - Grade 6) - (Three part test - 221/222/245*)
2. Multi-Subject: Teachers of Early Childhood (Birth - Grade2) - (Three part test - 211/246/245*)
*HOWEVER* it will only be required to take and pass Part 3 once. (Part 3 is the same for both tests)
Initial Certification: Music Pre K - 12
- Educating All Students Test (EAS) - (201)
- Content Specialty Test (CST)
1. Music CST - (165)
Initial Certification: Middle Childhood Mathematics – Grades 5-9
- Educating All Students Test (EAS) - (201)
- Content Specialty Test (CST)
1. Math - (004)
Initial Certification: Your Area of Study – Grades 7-12
- Educating All Students Test (EAS) - (201)
- Content Specialty Test (CST)
1. Take the CST in the subject area for which you are seeking certification