Missouri Praxis Requirements: Tests & Passing Scores
Missouri Praxis Requirements: Tests, Passing Scores & Teacher Certification
If you plan to become a teacher in Missouri, understanding the Missouri Praxis requirements is an important first step. Missouri uses ETS Praxis exams for many teaching licenses. These include elementary education, early childhood education, middle school subjects, high school subjects, special education, and other teaching areas.
Missouri made an important testing change on July 1, 2024. Since then, ETS Praxis exams have become the main tests used for teacher certification in the state. Therefore, candidates who are starting the certification process should check which Praxis exam applies to their teaching area.
This guide explains the current Missouri Praxis requirements, common test codes, passing scores, certification routes, and important 2026 updates. In addition, you will find practical tips that can help you prepare for your exam.
For more preparation options, explore the AIProctoredExams Praxis course collection or browse our teacher certification preparation courses.
What Are the Missouri Praxis Requirements?
The Missouri Praxis requirements depend on the teaching license you want.
For example, an elementary teacher does not usually take the same exam as a middle school math teacher. Instead, Missouri matches the required Praxis exam to the subject and grade level.
Missouri DESE currently uses Praxis exams as approved content tests for many teacher certification areas. Therefore, candidates should confirm their exact exam before registering.
For graduates of Missouri teacher preparation programs, the Initial Professional Certificate is usually the first teaching certificate received. In most cases, candidates need:
- A bachelor’s degree from an approved institution
- Completion of an approved teacher preparation program
- A recommendation from the training institution
- At least a 2.5 GPA in the teaching subject
- At least a 3.0 GPA in professional education courses
- A passing score on the required Missouri assessment
However, requirements can vary by program and certification route. For that reason, always confirm your exact requirements with the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
Missouri’s Move to Praxis Testing
The Missouri Praxis requirements changed significantly in 2024.
Beginning July 1, 2024, ETS Praxis exams became Missouri’s main teacher certification tests. Before that date, many candidates used Pearson assessments.
Although some previously passed Pearson exams may still be accepted, new candidates should generally expect to take Praxis exams. In addition, special transition rules may apply to candidates who started testing under the old system.
For example, elementary education candidates who passed only part of the previous elementary assessment may need to complete the required Praxis elementary exams instead.
Because testing rules can change, candidates should check the latest information from Missouri DESE before registering.
You can also browse the full AIProctoredExams course catalog for more study options.
Missouri Praxis Requirements for Elementary Education Grades 1–6
Elementary education is an important part of the Missouri Praxis requirements.
Candidates seeking Elementary Education Grades 1–6 certification currently use the Praxis Elementary Education: Multiple Subjects 7001 series.
The exam includes four subtests:
| Praxis Test | Test Code | Missouri Passing Score |
|---|---|---|
| Teaching Reading | 7002 | 129 |
| Mathematics | 7003 | 139 |
| Social Studies | 7004 | 140 |
| Science | 7005 | 144 |
Together, these exams cover the main subjects taught in elementary classrooms.
Candidates can prepare with the Praxis 7001 Elementary Education preparation course.
Praxis 7002 Teaching Reading
Praxis 7002 focuses on how children learn to read. Missouri currently requires a passing score of 129.
Important study areas include:
- Phonics
- Vocabulary
- Reading fluency
- Reading comprehension
- Phonological awareness
- Reading assessment
- Literacy instruction
Therefore, candidates should understand both reading theory and classroom teaching methods.
Praxis 7003 Mathematics
The Missouri passing score for Praxis 7003 Mathematics is 139.
This test may include:
- Number concepts
- Basic operations
- Algebraic thinking
- Geometry
- Measurement
- Statistics
- Probability
- Problem solving
In addition, candidates should practice solving questions under timed conditions.
Praxis 7004 Social Studies
Praxis 7004 currently requires a Missouri score of 140.
The exam covers topics such as:
- U.S. history
- Government
- Geography
- Economics
- Citizenship
- Social studies skills
Because the exam covers several areas, a balanced study plan is useful.
Praxis 7005 Science
Missouri currently requires a score of 144 on Praxis 7005 Science.
Candidates should review:
- Life science
- Physical science
- Earth science
- Space science
- Scientific inquiry
- Data interpretation
As a result, regular practice with science questions can help improve both knowledge and test speed.
Missouri Praxis Requirements for Early Childhood Education
Candidates seeking Early Childhood Education certification for Birth–Grade 3 currently take:
Praxis Early Childhood Education 5025
The Missouri passing score is 145.
This exam focuses on child development, learning, instruction, classroom practice, and early childhood teaching.
In addition, some candidates may need pedagogy preparation depending on their program. For that reason, students can also review the Praxis 5621 Principles of Learning and Teaching: Early Childhood course.
However, you should always confirm your exact required tests before registering.
Missouri Middle School Praxis Tests and Passing Scores
The Missouri Praxis requirements for middle school teachers depend on the subject they plan to teach.
Common examples include:
| Certification Area | Praxis Code | Missouri Passing Score |
|---|---|---|
| Middle School English Language Arts | 5047 | 153 |
| Middle School Mathematics | 5164 | 143 |
| Middle School Science | 5442 | 140 |
| Middle School Social Studies | 5589 | 137 |
Each test measures knowledge in a specific teaching subject. Therefore, candidates should prepare for the exam connected to their planned certification field.
Important 2026 Middle School Social Studies Change
Missouri candidates should pay close attention to a recent change in Middle School Social Studies testing.
The older Praxis 5089 Middle School Social Studies exam is accepted only through September 1, 2026. Its Missouri passing score is 140.
Meanwhile, the newer Praxis 5589 Middle School Social Studies exam has a Missouri passing score of 137.
Therefore, candidates testing during this transition should check the latest ETS requirements before registering.
If you are preparing for middle school teaching, you may also find the Praxis 5623 PLT Grades 5–9 preparation course useful.
Missouri Secondary Education Praxis Tests
Secondary teachers usually take a Praxis exam that matches their teaching subject.
For example:
| Certification Area | Praxis Test | Code | Passing Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| English | English Language Arts: Content Knowledge | 5038 | 158 |
| Mathematics | Mathematics | 5165 | 145 |
| General Science | General Science | 5436 | 128 |
| Physics | Physics | 5266 | 133 |
| Journalism | Journalism | 5224 | 140 |
| Social Studies | Social Studies | 5581 | 141 |
| Speech and Theatre | Speech and Theatre | 5222 | 139 |
| Technology and Engineering | Technology and Engineering Education | 5053 | 144 |
Because test numbers can change, candidates should always confirm the current requirements through the official ETS Missouri Praxis page.
In addition, candidates preparing for teaching students in Grades 7–12 can review the Praxis 5624 PLT Grades 7–12 preparation course.
Missouri Special Education Praxis Requirements
Missouri also uses Praxis tests for several special education licenses.
One important exam is:
Praxis 5355 – Special Education: Foundational Knowledge
The Missouri passing score is currently 132.
Candidates preparing for this exam can use the Praxis 5355 Special Education preparation course.
Important topics may include:
- Student disabilities
- Assessment
- Individualized Education Programs
- Lesson planning
- Classroom management
- Behavior support
- Accommodations
- Collaboration
- Professional duties
However, Missouri has more than one special education certification area. Therefore, candidates should confirm which test matches their exact license.
Are Praxis PLT Tests Required in Missouri?
Many teacher candidates ask whether Missouri requires the Principles of Learning and Teaching, or PLT, exams.
The answer depends on the candidate’s program, grade level, and certification route. Therefore, a PLT exam should not be booked simply because it matches your grade range.
AIProctoredExams offers preparation for several PLT exams:
- Praxis 5621 PLT Early Childhood
- Praxis 5622 PLT Grades K–6
- Praxis 5623 PLT Grades 5–9
- Praxis 5624 PLT Grades 7–12
Before choosing a PLT exam, confirm the requirement with your college or Missouri certification office.
Does Missouri Require Praxis Core?
Praxis Core includes:
- Reading 5713
- Writing 5723
- Mathematics 5733
- Combined Praxis Core 5752
Missouri’s teacher testing rules have changed over time. Therefore, candidates should not assume Praxis Core is required for every certification pathway.
Some colleges or teacher preparation programs may still use Praxis Core for admission or other purposes.
If your program requires these exams, you can prepare with the Praxis Core 5713, 5723, 5733 and 5752 preparation course.
Most importantly, check your specific program requirements before paying for an exam.
Important 2026 Missouri Praxis Change for ABCTE Candidates
The Missouri Praxis requirements also changed for some candidates using the American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence route.
Beginning August 1, 2025, ABCTE applicants seeking Elementary Education Grades 1–6 certification must pass Praxis 7002 Teaching Reading.
In addition, beginning July 1, 2026, ABCTE candidates applying for a Missouri teaching certificate must pass the Praxis exam required for their certification area.
Therefore, candidates using this pathway should make sure they are following current 2026 rules.
Older websites may not yet show these changes. For that reason, verify the latest details through Missouri DESE.
Missouri Teacher Certification Routes
Missouri offers several routes into teaching.
Traditional Certification Route
First, candidates normally complete an approved teacher preparation program.
Next, they complete student teaching and meet degree requirements.
Finally, they must satisfy the testing and certification rules for their teaching area.
You can review the state’s current options on the Missouri certification routes page.
Alternative Certification
Candidates who already hold bachelor’s degrees may qualify for an alternative route.
These programs often combine teaching experience with professional education courses.
However, testing requirements still depend on the certification area. Therefore, alternative-route candidates should check their Praxis requirements carefully.
Out-of-State Teachers
Missouri also provides a route for teachers who already hold valid certificates from other states.
In many cases, Missouri may issue a comparable certificate after reviewing the applicant’s credentials.
However, requirements vary. Therefore, out-of-state teachers should submit their records for an official review.
American Board Route
Missouri also accepts the ABCTE route in approved areas.
As noted above, new Praxis rules apply to many ABCTE candidates in 2026. Therefore, applicants should review the current Missouri DESE guidance before applying.
How to Prepare for the Missouri Praxis Exams
Understanding the Missouri Praxis requirements is only part of the process. You also need a clear study plan.
1. Confirm Your Exact Praxis Test Code
First, check the exact exam code required for your teaching area.
Do not rely only on the subject name because similar exams may have different test numbers.
Use the ETS Missouri Praxis requirements page and Missouri DESE assessment information.
2. Review the Exam Topics
Next, look at the subjects covered on the exam.
Break the content into smaller study areas. Then, focus more time on the topics you find difficult.
You can also browse the AIProctoredExams study guides for added preparation support.
3. Use Practice Questions
Practice questions are important because they help you apply what you have learned.
In addition, practice questions can help you:
- Understand common question styles
- Find weak areas
- Improve test speed
- Practice eliminating wrong answers
- Build confidence
4. Review Incorrect Answers
When you miss a question, do not simply move to the next one.
Instead, ask yourself:
- Why was my answer wrong?
- Why is the correct answer better?
- What topic do I need to review?
- Did I misunderstand the question?
- Was I rushing?
As a result, each mistake can become a useful study lesson.
5. Complete Timed Practice
Finally, practice under timed conditions before test day.
Timed practice can help you manage pressure and improve pacing. It can also show whether you are spending too much time on difficult questions.
Learn more about the platform through How AIProctoredExams Works.
How Long Should You Study for a Missouri Praxis Test?
Study time depends on the exam and your current knowledge. However, a four-to-six-week plan can work well for many candidates.
Four to Six Weeks Before the Test
First, review the exam outline and identify weak subjects.
Three to Four Weeks Before the Test
Next, study each main content area and complete topic-based questions.
Two Weeks Before the Test
Then, increase the number of practice questions you complete. At the same time, return to areas where you are still making mistakes.
Final Week
Finally, complete timed practice and review important concepts.
Avoid trying to learn large amounts of new material the night before your exam.
For more support, visit the AIProctoredExams Help Center.
Frequently Asked Questions About Missouri Praxis Requirements
Does Missouri use Praxis for teacher certification?
Yes. Missouri began using ETS Praxis exams as its main teacher certification testing system on July 1, 2024.
What Praxis test is required for Missouri elementary teachers?
Candidates seeking Elementary Education Grades 1–6 certification currently use the Praxis 7001 series. This includes Praxis 7002, 7003, 7004, and 7005.
What are the Missouri Praxis 7001 passing scores?
The current Missouri scores are:
- Praxis 7002 Teaching Reading – 129
- Praxis 7003 Mathematics – 139
- Praxis 7004 Social Studies – 140
- Praxis 7005 Science – 144
What is the Missouri Praxis passing score?
There is no single passing score for every Praxis exam. Instead, each test has its own required score.
Can I take a Missouri Praxis test online?
Some Praxis exams may offer at-home testing, while others require a testing center. Therefore, check the ETS page for your exact exam before scheduling.
Can an out-of-state teacher become certified in Missouri?
Yes. Missouri has a certification route for teachers who already hold valid teaching certificates from other states.
However, the state reviews each applicant’s qualifications before issuing a Missouri certificate.
Have Missouri Praxis requirements changed recently?
Yes. Missouri moved to ETS Praxis testing in July 2024. In addition, new requirements for some ABCTE applicants took effect in 2025 and 2026.
Where can I check the latest Missouri Praxis requirements?
The best sources are the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and the official ETS Praxis Missouri requirements page.
Start Preparing for Your Missouri Praxis Exam
The Missouri Praxis requirements vary by teaching area. Therefore, the first step is to identify your exact test code and required passing score.
Elementary candidates may take the Praxis 7001 series. Meanwhile, middle school, high school, special education, and alternative-route candidates may need different exams.
Once you know your required test, build a study plan that includes content review, practice questions, timed exercises, and detailed review of incorrect answers.
Explore the full AIProctoredExams Praxis preparation collection, browse all available exam preparation courses, or visit the AIProctoredExams homepage for more resources.
In addition, you can learn more about the platform on the About AIProctoredExams page.
AIProctoredExams is an independent exam preparation provider. It is not ETS or the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
Finally, always check the latest Missouri Praxis requirements with Missouri DESE and ETS before registering for your exam.
