There is a famous quote by George Evans that says, “Every student can learn, just not on the same day or in the same way.” This quote effectively summarizes all that special education entails: helping a child adapt to the education system based on their unique needs.
It’s not easy to get this right. That’s why teachers have to prove that they are capable by acing the Praxis Special Education test. Here’s everything you need to know about this assessment and how to prepare for it.
What is the Praxis Special Education Test?
The Praxis Special Education test is proof on paper that you’ve got what it takes to teach students with special needs. There are several versions of the Praxis, but the most common one most people take is Praxis 5354. You’ll often find it titled: Special Education: Core Knowledge and Applications.
There are about 120 questions in this multiple-choice exam, and you have 2 hours to get it done. The set questions spans the following areas:
Development and Characteristics of Learners

This section will focus on how kids grow, learn, and behave, especially in the context of disability. You’ll need to know things like the difference between a cognitive delay and a learning disability, how autism may affect communication and behavior, what “atypical development” looks like at different ages, etc.
Planning and the Learning Environment
You’ll see questions about writing and interpreting IEPs (Individualized Education Programs), creating a safe learning environment that’s full of positivity, and using visuals, schedules, and routines to support your students.
Instruction
The questions coming from this point in the test will be around differentiated instruction, co-teaching strategies, and using assistive tech like text-to-speech tools or math manipulatives.
Assessment
Here, you’ll need to prove to the examiners that you know the difference between formal and informal assessments, how to interpret assessment data, and when and how to modify tests.
Foundations and Professional Responsibilities
How familiar are you with special education laws? How about your ethical responsibilities, and how to collaborate with families and gen-ed teachers? That’s something you’ll encounter in the test.
Your success in this career path rests on how well you do in the Praxis Special Education Test. Resources like the Praxis 5354 digital guide or others you know can help you get there.
The experts behind these guides have packaged their years of experience into resources that are not only helpful in preparing you but also come in convenient formats. Do your research and settle for the best tools that can suit your needs.
How to Prepare for the Praxis Special Education Test
The right way to kick off your preparation is by creating a study plan. Here’s how one could look:
Week 1: Get Familiar
You can download the free ETS Study Companion to set the stage for you. This official study guide walks you step-by-step through everything you need to set you up. It includes sample test questions and problems with detailed explanations.
You can then take a diagnostic test to establish where you stand. The results of this assessment will show you the topics you’re shaky on.
Week 2–3: Focus on the Shaky Topics
Say, you found out that content categories like laws and definitions give you trouble. Create flashcards for the full definitions of IDEA, FAPE, and so on. You can also check out YouTube explainer videos on IEP writing and disability types.
Week 4: Apply What You’ve Learned
Once you’ve gone through the resources, feel free to mimic real classroom situations you’ll face as a teacher. They help you apply what you’ve studied in a more practical, hands-on way.
Also, go through full-length Praxis test prep exams. They can help you simulate the real experience. If you’ve ever worked with students before, draw from that experience. Use it to answer the scenario questions.
What Score Do You Need to Pass?
It depends on your state. Most states require test scores between 145 and 160. You’ll get an unofficial score immediately after the test. The official score report will land a few days later via your ETS account.
If you pass, your results will be automatically sent to the state licensing agency you selected when registering. That’s a step closer to becoming a certified special education teacher.
If, unfortunately, you didn’t make it this time, you can retake the test after 28 days. There’s no limit on how many times, but you’ll have to pay for each repeated attempt.
Closing Thoughts
The Praxis Special Education Test can open the door to a successful career as a tutor for students with special educational needs. This blog has given you a few tips you can use to get ready. Combine these tips with resources geared towards helping you get the process right, and you may just set yourself up for success in this endeavor.