TExES Content Test

The TExES content test is an exam that all certification-seeking educators must pass (along with other certification requirements) to earn their Texas Standard Certificate. Passing this exam provides parents, school leaders, and students the confidence that their teacher is equipped with the knowledge base and applied understanding of the subject matter being taught in the classroom.

This is the first certification exam in the certification testing sequence. Certification candidates can expect to study for and take at 2-5 different certification exams towards their teaching certificate.

Yes, the content test is required for all certification-seeking educators. The certification process in Texas requires a sequence of testing. The first exam is the content test which educators are expected to pass prior to teaching as a demonstration of knowledge of the content.

Taking the content test is the first step in beginning your certification journey. Exception: Applicants who are already certified or are seeking certification through their undergraduate program.

Once your enrollment with Relay begins, you will take a practice test for your exam. If you pass the practice test, you will be approved to take the official exam.

The content test is incredibly challenging with a cut score of 240 out of 300. Each exam features hundreds of questions spanning over several domains, subject areas, dozens of competencies, and several grade levels. Adequate preparation takes dedicated study time, strong study skills, study resources, and test question practice. It is a lot to prepare for!

We recommend beginning your study plan immediately and committing at least 3 hours per week to studying. Most students need at least two months of active studying for 3-5 hours per week in order to earn testing permission and pass the official test.

The cost of the official exam is $116 + processing. Relay does not charge an application fee and does not require any other tests prior to admission to help offset the cost of the certification content test.

There are a variety of great free and paid resources available. Since the official test is computer-administered, you may find online resources that simulate the exam to be most helpful. If you are seeking a hard copy resource, you can find an array of test prep books from online or brick-and-mortar bookstores. In addition, your employer may have a list of recommendations that have worked well for other educators at their campus(es). Note: Relay is prohibited from providing coursework or training prior to formal enrollment per Texas Administrative Code §227.17.

To learn more about what will be covered on the exam, review the preparation manual for your exam:

• Core Subjects EC-6 (291): Preparation Materials

• Core Subjects 4-8 (211): Preparation Materials

• Mathematics 4-8 (115): Preparation Materials

• English Language Arts and Reading 4-8 (117): Preparation Materials

• Social Studies 4-8 (118): Preparation Materials

• Science 4-8 (116): Preparation Materials

• English Language Arts and Reading/Social Studies 4-8 (113): Preparation Materials

• Mathematics/Science 4-8 (114): Preparation Materials

• English Language Arts and Reading 7-12 (231): Preparation Materials

• Mathematics 7-12 (235): Preparation Materials

• Social Studies 7-12 (232): Preparation Materials

• Science 7-12 (236): Preparation Materials

No. The TExES content test is specifically for Texas and is required for Texas certification.

In order to be certified by Relay, you will need to take the test that is recommended by your school. Our partners often recommend the core subjects exam so you have more flexibility upon completion of the program. Please reach out to your employer to learn more about their recommendation.

Test permissions have to be approved by an authorized educator preparation program before a certification candidate can register for an exam. This Texas Education Agency policy has been in effect since January 26, 2020.