Arkansas Praxis Requirements: Tests & Passing Scores
Arkansas Praxis Requirements: Tests, Passing Scores & Teacher Certification
If you plan to become a teacher in Arkansas, understanding the Arkansas Praxis requirements is an important first step. Arkansas uses Praxis assessments for many educator licenses, including elementary education, middle school, secondary education, special education, career and technical education, school counseling, and several K–12 teaching areas.
However, Arkansas has made several changes to its testing system. Most importantly, new Elementary Education Fundamentals tests are now available for K–6 candidates. In addition, some older Praxis exams are being phased out during 2026 and 2027.
Therefore, candidates should confirm the exact test code and passing score before registering.
This guide explains current Arkansas Praxis requirements, important test codes, passing scores, elementary and secondary assessments, special education exams, alternative licensure routes, and major testing changes.
Candidates should compare their requirements with the official Arkansas DESE Licensure Assessments page and the ETS Arkansas Praxis requirements page before scheduling a test.
For study support, candidates can explore the AIProctoredExams Praxis preparation collection or browse the teacher certification preparation courses.
What Are the Arkansas Praxis Requirements?
The Arkansas Praxis requirements depend on the license and grade level you want to pursue.
Arkansas uses different assessments for different teaching areas. For example, elementary candidates take several subject tests, while a secondary mathematics candidate takes a mathematics content exam.
In addition, some licenses require reading, pedagogy, or other professional assessments.
Arkansas DESE currently publishes a detailed list showing each license area, required test, test code, and qualifying score. The state also notes that previous versions of some tests may continue to be accepted during transition periods.
Therefore, candidates should identify the license first and the exam second.
You can also browse the complete AIProctoredExams course catalog while planning your preparation.
Major Arkansas Praxis Changes Candidates Should Know
Several current changes make the Arkansas Praxis requirements especially important to review before registering.
First, Arkansas now recognizes the new Elementary Education Fundamentals 8002–8005 assessments for Elementary Education K–6.
Meanwhile, the older Praxis Elementary Education: Multiple Subjects 5001 series remains accepted only through September 1, 2027.
In addition, the older Praxis 5089 Middle School Social Studies exam is accepted only through September 1, 2026.
Several early childhood assessments also have 2026 transition dates.
As a result, candidates should avoid relying on old test-preparation articles or outdated college documents.
Arkansas Praxis Requirements for Elementary Education K–6
Elementary education has one of the biggest recent changes in the Arkansas Praxis requirements.
Arkansas now accepts the Praxis Elementary Education Fundamentals series.
The current tests are:
| Elementary Test | Praxis Code | Arkansas Passing Score |
|---|---|---|
| Reading and Language Arts | 8002 | 137 |
| Mathematics | 8003 | 136 |
| Social Studies | 8004 | 130 |
| Science | 8005 | 126 |
These four assessments cover the major subject areas taught by elementary educators.
Praxis 8002 Reading and Language Arts
Praxis 8002 has an Arkansas qualifying score of 137.
Candidates should prepare for topics related to:
- Reading
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Language
- Literacy development
- Text analysis
- Classroom literacy instruction
Because reading is central to elementary teaching, candidates should give this section consistent study time.
Praxis 8003 Mathematics
Praxis 8003 has an Arkansas passing score of 136.
Important mathematics areas may include:
- Numbers and operations
- Fractions
- Decimals
- Ratios
- Algebraic thinking
- Geometry
- Measurement
- Data
- Probability
Therefore, candidates should practice solving questions instead of relying only on memorized formulas.
Praxis 8004 Social Studies
Praxis 8004 requires a score of 130 in Arkansas.
The exam may cover areas such as:
- U.S. history
- World history
- Government
- Geography
- Economics
- Citizenship
In addition, Arkansas candidates should remember that state-specific history requirements may apply in some licensure situations.
Praxis 8005 Science
The Arkansas passing score for Praxis 8005 is 126.
Candidates should review:
- Life science
- Physical science
- Earth science
- Space science
- Scientific inquiry
- Data interpretation
As a result, a balanced science review is more useful than focusing on only one science discipline.
Is Praxis 5001 Still Accepted in Arkansas?
Yes, but it is being phased out.
Arkansas currently accepts Praxis Elementary Education: Multiple Subjects 5001 through September 1, 2027.
The individual subtests and Arkansas qualifying scores are:
| Praxis 5001 Subtest | Code | Passing Score |
|---|---|---|
| Reading and Language Arts | 5002 | 141 |
| Mathematics | 5003 | 136 |
| Social Studies | 5004 | 137 |
| Science | 5005 | 139 |
Candidates who are already preparing for this version can review the Praxis 5001 Elementary Education preparation resources available through AIProctoredExams.
However, new candidates should carefully confirm whether the newer 8002–8005 series is the better option for their pathway.
Arkansas Early Childhood Praxis Requirements
Early childhood candidates also need to pay attention to test transitions.
For Early Childhood PreK, Arkansas currently uses:
Praxis 5533 – Early Childhood Education: Foundational Knowledge
Passing score: 143
The older Praxis 5024 Education of Young Children, with a passing score of 149, is accepted only through September 1, 2026.
Therefore, candidates testing after that transition should prepare for Praxis 5533 unless their licensing program gives different guidance.
Early Childhood/Special Education Integrated B–K
Candidates in this area may also use Praxis 5533.
Meanwhile, the older Praxis 5023 Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education assessment is accepted through September 1, 2026.
Because the deadline is close, candidates should verify the correct exam before paying for registration.
Arkansas Pre-K–2 Testing Requirements
Candidates seeking Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 2 certification currently need:
Praxis 5028 – Early Childhood: Mathematics and Science
Passing score: 145
Arkansas also lists the NES Foundations of Reading NT890, with a qualifying score of 233, for this area.
Therefore, candidates should prepare for both subject knowledge and strong reading-instruction knowledge where required.
For additional literacy preparation, candidates can browse the AIProctoredExams Study Guides.
Arkansas Middle School Praxis Requirements
The Arkansas Praxis requirements for middle school teachers depend on the subject being taught.
Current tests include:
| Middle School Area | Praxis Code | Arkansas Passing Score |
|---|---|---|
| English Language Arts | 5047 | 153 |
| Mathematics | 5164 | 141 |
| Science | 5442 | 140 |
| Social Studies | 5589 | 137 |
These assessments apply to major Middle School Grades 4–8 teaching areas.
Middle School English Language Arts 5047
Arkansas currently requires a score of 153.
Candidates should prepare in areas such as:
- Reading
- Literature
- Writing
- Language
- Research
- Communication
Middle School Mathematics 5164
The Arkansas passing score is 141.
Important topics include:
- Numbers
- Algebra
- Geometry
- Statistics
- Probability
- Mathematical reasoning
Candidates should also practice working within time limits.
Middle School Science 5442
Arkansas currently requires a score of 140.
Praxis 5442 covers physical science, life science, Earth and space science, and scientific inquiry.
Middle School Social Studies 5589
The newer Praxis Middle School Social Studies exam is:
Praxis 5589
Arkansas passing score: 137
The older Praxis 5089, with a passing score of 149, is accepted only through September 1, 2026.
Therefore, candidates should make sure they study for the correct version.
Candidates preparing for middle-grade pedagogy can also review the Praxis 5623 PLT Grades 5–9 preparation course.
Arkansas Secondary Education Praxis Requirements
Secondary candidates generally take the Praxis content assessment linked to their teaching field.
Current examples include:
| Secondary License Area | Praxis Code | Passing Score |
|---|---|---|
| Biology | 5236 | 142 |
| Chemistry | 5246 | 133 |
| Computer Science | 5652 | 135 |
| English Language Arts | 5038 | 155 |
| Geometry | 5163 | 129 |
| Mathematics | 5165 | 143 |
| Physics | 5266 | 133 |
| Social Studies | 5581 | 141 |
| Journalism | 5224 | 140 |
Arkansas DESE and ETS currently list these qualifying scores for the relevant license areas.
Therefore, candidates should know their exact score target before beginning full-length practice tests.
Arkansas Praxis Mathematics 5165
Secondary mathematics candidates currently use:
Praxis Mathematics 5165
Arkansas passing score: 143
Candidates should prepare for:
- Algebra
- Functions
- Geometry
- Statistics
- Probability
- Mathematical modeling
- Problem solving
In addition, regular timed practice can help candidates improve speed and accuracy.
Arkansas English Language Arts Praxis 5038
Secondary English candidates use:
Praxis English Language Arts: Content Knowledge 5038
Passing score: 155
Important areas may include:
- Literature
- Reading
- Writing
- Grammar
- Rhetoric
- Research
- Communication
Because this test covers several skills, candidates should divide their study schedule into smaller sections.
Arkansas Social Studies Praxis 5581
Arkansas currently lists:
Praxis Social Studies 5581
Passing score: 141
The state licensure table also identifies an Arkansas History requirement for the Social Studies 7–12 area.
Therefore, candidates should confirm whether they also need to complete state-specific history requirements through their educator preparation program.
Arkansas Special Education Praxis Requirements
Special education is another important area within the Arkansas Praxis requirements.
For Special Education K–12, Arkansas currently lists:
Praxis 5355 – Special Education: Foundational Knowledge
Passing score: 132
The state also lists:
Praxis 5511 – Fundamental Subjects: Content Knowledge
Passing score: 148
and the NES Foundations of Reading NT890, with a qualifying score of 233, for Special Education K–12.
Candidates preparing for special education can review the Praxis 5355 Special Education preparation course.
For broader content review, the Praxis 5511 Fundamental Subjects preparation course can also support candidates whose pathway requires that test.
Other Arkansas Special Education Tests
Arkansas uses additional exams for specialized areas.
Examples include:
| Special Education Area | Praxis Code | Passing Score |
|---|---|---|
| Early Childhood/Early Intervention | 5692 | 146 |
| Gifted Education | 5358 | 151 |
| Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Students | 5272 | 160 |
| Teaching Students With Visual Impairments | 5282 | 163 |
Therefore, special education candidates should avoid assuming that Praxis 5355 is the only test available.
Your exact assessment depends on your endorsement or license.
Arkansas PLT Requirements
Arkansas also recognizes several Principles of Learning and Teaching assessments in selected licensure and endorsement areas.
Current listed scores include:
| PLT Exam | Code | Arkansas Passing Score |
|---|---|---|
| PLT: Early Childhood | 5621 | 157 |
| PLT: Grades K–6 | 5622 | 160 |
| PLT: Grades 5–9 | 5623 | 160 |
| PLT: Grades 7–12 | 5624 | 157 |
| PLT: PreK–12 | 5625 | 143 |
These exams are used in areas such as instructional facilitation, educational examining, and some other professional pathways.
Candidates can prepare through the following AIProctoredExams resources:
- Praxis 5621 PLT Early Childhood preparation
- Praxis 5622 PLT Grades K–6 preparation
- Praxis 5623 PLT Grades 5–9 preparation
- Praxis 5624 PLT Grades 7–12 preparation
Always confirm whether a PLT test applies to your exact pathway before registering.
Arkansas K–12 and All-Grades Praxis Tests
Arkansas also uses Praxis exams for several K–12 teaching areas.
Examples include:
| Teaching Area | Praxis Code | Passing Score |
|---|---|---|
| Art | 5134 | 145 |
| Music: Content Knowledge | 5113 | 152 |
| Music: Instrumental | 5115 | 138 |
| Music: Vocal | 5116 | 140 |
| Physical Education and Health | 5857 | 149 |
| Speech Communication | 5221 | 141 |
| Theatre | 5641 | 154 |
Therefore, candidates pursuing all-grades licenses should review the assessment connected to their subject instead of using an elementary or secondary test list.
Arkansas School Counselor Praxis Requirements
Arkansas currently uses:
Praxis School Counselor 5422
Passing score: 146
This applies to Guidance/Counseling K–12 initial licensure and endorsement pathways.
Important study areas may include:
- Human development
- Counseling theory
- Academic development
- Career counseling
- Assessment
- Program management
- Professional practice
- Ethics
Arkansas School Leadership Assessments
Praxis-related assessments are also used for school leadership.
Arkansas currently lists:
School Leaders Licensure Assessment 6990 — passing score 151
and
School Superintendent Assessment 6991 — passing score 157.
Therefore, Arkansas educator testing extends beyond classroom teacher certification.
Alternative Teacher Licensure in Arkansas
Arkansas offers several alternative pathways for people who already hold bachelor’s degrees.
Options currently include programs such as the Arkansas Professional Educator Pathway, Arkansas Teacher Corps, iTeach, Teach for America, master’s-level programs leading to initial licensure, and the Provisional Professional Teaching License pathway.
Candidates considering a nontraditional route should review the official Arkansas DESE Alternative Pathways to Licensure.
In several alternative routes, candidates must pass the relevant Praxis subject assessment before beginning teaching or receiving a provisional license.
Therefore, preparing for the correct Praxis exam early can help prevent delays.
Arkansas Provisional Professional Teaching License
The Provisional Professional Teaching License is one alternative route available in Arkansas.
Applicants must meet several conditions, including passing the state-required content knowledge assessment for the subject they plan to teach. Background checks and other requirements also apply.
Candidates can review the official Arkansas Provisional Professional Teaching License information for current rules.
Arkansas Alternative Assessment Plan
Arkansas also has an Alternative Assessment Plan for certain candidates who have not met the standard content-assessment requirement.
Under current state guidance, applicants may be able to show subject competency through an approved combination of assessment results, credentials, performance measures, edTPA, and relevant teaching experience.
Because eligibility is specific, candidates should review the official Arkansas Alternative Assessment Plan rather than assuming they qualify.
Out-of-State Teachers Seeking Arkansas Licensure
Arkansas also offers licensure by reciprocity.
However, holding a teaching license from another state does not always mean an Arkansas license is granted automatically.
The state reviews the existing license, teaching experience, testing history, transcripts, and other requirements. Arkansas also identifies Foundations of Reading requirements for certain elementary, special education, and early childhood reciprocity applicants.
Out-of-state educators should review the official Arkansas Licensure by Reciprocity guidance before applying.
Can edTPA Replace a Praxis Content Assessment in Arkansas?
In some situations, it may be possible.
Arkansas DESE states that edTPA may be an option as a substitute for a Praxis content assessment, depending on the candidate and licensure pathway. Candidates are advised to speak with their licensure advisor for details.
Therefore, candidates should not assume that this option applies automatically.
The safest approach is to confirm the requirement directly with your educator preparation program or Arkansas licensure advisor.
How to Prepare for the Arkansas Praxis Exams
Understanding the Arkansas Praxis requirements is only the beginning. A clear preparation plan can make your study time much more effective.
1. Confirm the Exact Test Code
First, identify the assessment required for your license.
For example, an Arkansas elementary candidate may now use the 8002–8005 series, while a middle school mathematics candidate uses Praxis 5164.
Because several older exams are being phased out, this step is especially important.
2. Check the Required Passing Score
Next, write down the exact score you need.
Then compare that target with your practice-test results.
This gives you a clearer way to measure progress.
3. Use a Test Blueprint
Before studying, divide the exam into major content areas.
Focus more time on weaker topics while continuing to review stronger areas.
The AIProctoredExams Study Guides can help organize your preparation.
4. Complete Practice Questions
Practice questions help you move beyond passive reading.
They can also help you:
- Learn common question styles
- Identify weak subjects
- Improve recall
- Practice eliminating weak answers
- Improve pacing
- Build confidence
For additional options, browse the AIProctoredExams Praxis resources.
5. Review Incorrect Answers
After every practice session, review the questions you missed.
Ask yourself why the correct answer is stronger and which concept needs more study.
As a result, mistakes become useful learning opportunities rather than lost points.
6. Practice Under Timed Conditions
Finally, complete timed practice before test day.
Timed sessions help you improve pacing and reduce the chance of spending too long on one difficult question.
Candidates who are new to the platform can review How AIProctoredExams Works.
Arkansas DESE also provides an official test preparation resources page for licensure candidates.
A Four-Week Arkansas Praxis Study Plan
Week 1: Understand the Exam
First, confirm your test code and passing score.
Next, review the exam structure and content areas.
Finally, identify your weakest subjects.
Week 2: Build Knowledge
Focus on the areas where you need the most improvement.
At the same time, complete short practice sets after each study topic.
Week 3: Increase Practice
Begin mixing questions from several content areas.
In addition, review each incorrect answer and return to difficult topics.
Week 4: Practice Under Test Conditions
Complete longer timed practice sessions.
Then, use your final days to review key concepts and common mistakes.
If you need help locating preparation material, visit the AIProctoredExams Help Center.
Frequently Asked Questions About Arkansas Praxis Requirements
Does Arkansas use Praxis for teacher certification?
Yes. Arkansas uses Praxis assessments across many educator license areas, including elementary, middle school, secondary, special education, K–12 subjects, counseling, and leadership.
What Praxis tests do Arkansas elementary teachers take?
Arkansas now recognizes the Elementary Education Fundamentals tests 8002, 8003, 8004, and 8005.
Is Praxis 5001 still accepted in Arkansas?
Yes. However, the Praxis 5001 Elementary Education: Multiple Subjects series is currently accepted only through September 1, 2027.
What are the Arkansas Praxis 8002–8005 passing scores?
The current qualifying scores are:
- Praxis 8002 Reading and Language Arts — 137
- Praxis 8003 Mathematics — 136
- Praxis 8004 Social Studies — 130
- Praxis 8005 Science — 126
What is the Arkansas Praxis 5164 passing score?
The Arkansas qualifying score for Middle School Mathematics 5164 is 141.
What is the Arkansas Praxis 5442 passing score?
Arkansas currently requires 140 for Praxis Middle School Science 5442.
What is the Arkansas Praxis 5589 passing score?
The qualifying score for the newer Middle School Social Studies 5589 exam is 137.
What is the Arkansas Praxis 5355 passing score?
Arkansas currently requires 132 for Praxis Special Education: Foundational Knowledge 5355.
Does Arkansas require a reading assessment?
Reading-related requirements apply to several areas, including Pre-K–2, Elementary K–6, and Special Education pathways. Candidates should check the exact requirements associated with their license.
Can out-of-state teachers become licensed in Arkansas?
Yes. Arkansas offers licensure by reciprocity. However, the state reviews each applicant’s existing license, experience, assessment history, and other requirements.
Does Arkansas offer alternative teacher certification?
Yes. Arkansas provides several alternative routes for candidates who already hold bachelor’s degrees. Some routes require the Praxis content test before a provisional license or teaching placement can begin.
Where should I verify Arkansas Praxis requirements?
Always check the current Arkansas DESE licensure assessment information and the official ETS Arkansas Praxis requirements before registering.
Start Preparing for Your Arkansas Praxis Exam
The Arkansas Praxis requirements vary by license, subject, and grade level. Therefore, successful preparation begins with identifying the exact test you need.
Elementary candidates should pay special attention to the new Praxis 8002–8005 assessments and the 2027 transition away from Praxis 5001. Meanwhile, middle school candidates should note the 2026 Social Studies transition from Praxis 5089 to 5589.
Secondary, special education, counseling, leadership, and K–12 candidates also have their own testing requirements.
Once you know your exact test and passing score, build a study plan that includes content review, practice questions, answer explanations, and timed exercises.
Explore the AIProctoredExams Praxis preparation collection, browse all available exam preparation courses, or visit the AIProctoredExams homepage.
You can also learn more through the About AIProctoredExams page.
AIProctoredExams is an independent exam-preparation provider and is not affiliated with ETS or the Arkansas Department of Education.
Finally, always verify the latest Arkansas Praxis requirements with Arkansas DESE and ETS before paying for or scheduling an examination.
