The Expert Guide To The GACE: How To Pass

Yes indeed, aspiring educators in Georgia – teachers sometimes need to take tests too. If you’re on your way to becoming a teacher in Georgia, you’ll need to get familiar with the Georgia Assessments for the Certification of Educators (GACE). So, we’re here to explain everything you need to know about the GACE. We’ll cover what it is, the specific exams you’ll need to take, and how to get started. Plus, we’ll talk about costs, how to register, and share some great study tips. Let’s break down the GACE tests and set you up for success.

What is the GACE Test

The Georgia Assessments for the Certification of Educators (GACE) is the official program perspective teachers use to get their certification in Georgia.

The purpose of the GACE tests is to make sure all Georgia teachers have the knowledge and skills to be quality teachers. Anyone looking to become a teacher in Georgia must pass the required GACE exam, so these tests are pretty important.

What are the Different Types of GACE Tests?

The GACE tests are broken down into five different categories: Content, Certificate Upgrade, Educational Leadership, Georgia Ethics, and Paraprofessional

GACE Structure and Format

The GACE tests are categorized into several types, including Basic Skills, Professional Pedagogy, and Content Assessments, each targeting different skill sets and knowledge areas. Exams typically feature a mix of multiple-choice and constructed-response questions. The multiple-choice section tests your knowledge and understanding of a subject, while the constructed-response questions assess your ability to apply that knowledge in practical, real-world teaching scenarios.

The amount of time allocated for each GACE test varies depending on its complexity and length. Generally, candidates can expect to spend anywhere from one to four hours on a test.

Which GACE Test Do I Have to Take?

To figure out which GACE tests to take, start by thinking about which teaching area you want to be certified in.

If you’re entering a teacher preparation program, you’ll need to pass the GACE Program Admission Assessment. This test checks your basic skills in mathematics, reading, and writing. Some may have the option to bypass this test if they have high enough scores on the SAT or other approved standardized tests.

For future teachers of specific content areas or grade levels, you’ll take one or more GACE Content Assessments. These are designed to verify your subject knowledge and pedagogical skills.

Early Childhood and Elementary Education

Early childhood and elementary educators will focus on tests like the GACE Early Childhood Education Test or the GACE Birth Through Kindergarten Test. Aspiring middle school teachers should choose among tests tailored to that level, including Middle Grades Science, Math, Reading, and Language Arts Tests. And for subject-specific teaching positions, like those in high school or specialized educational roles, you’ll find a GACE Content Assessment that matches your area of expertise, be it Agriculture, Computer Science, or a World Language, to name a few.

Special Education

Special education teachers have a suite of tests to choose from, depending on the curriculum they aim to teach. This includes the GACE Special Education Adapted Curriculum Test and others focusing on specific academic subjects.

Paraprofessional

If you’re a paraprofessional, such as a teacher’s assistant, the GACE Paraprofessional Assessment is the one for you. It assesses essential skills in reading, writing, and math, ensuring you’re equipped to support student learning.

Certificate Upgrade

And if you’re looking to upgrade your certification or move into an educational leadership role, there are GACE Certificate Upgrade Tests for areas like Curriculum and Instruction or Educational Leadership.

Georgia Ethics Assessments

The GACE Georgia Ethics Assessments are also required for both new teachers and administrators. These are two-part tests, with an entry and exit exam, associated with the mandatory training program in educator ethics.

Registration for the GACE Test

Registering for the GACE can be done both online or over the phone. Here’s what you need to know to get on the list:

For Online Registration

Make sure you’ve got your testing approval from your MyPSC account. This gives you the GA CERT ID that you need for registering. Then, pop in your GA CERT ID, full name, date of birth, and Social Security number. You’ll see a list of tests you can take – choose the ones you’re approved for. After you register, you’ll get a confirmation email. Go over it carefully to make sure everything is correct.

If You Prefer Registering by Phone

Dial 1-855-225-7178. They’re on the line Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET. Keep in mind that you, the test-taker, have to be the one to make the call.

Costs Associated with the GACE

Each GACE test has its own fee, which usually includes the cost of registration and any test center charges. Some tests might have extra fees, like the ASLPI. If you need to retake a test, keep in mind there’s a 30-day waiting period (28 days for the Paraprofessional Exam) and you’ll have to pay the same fee again. Be sure to learn these costs early on so you can plan your budget.

The cost of your GACE test will vary depending on the specific tests you are taking. Check the table below to determine how much each type of GACE test costs:

Each price includes a $25 registration fee and a $28 test center fee.

You can find detailed information about the GACE test fees on the official GACE website.

Other Fees to Consider

If you have to change your test location, date, or time, there’s a fee for that.

Canceling a test? You can get half your test fee back if you cancel at least three days before your test.

Taking the GACE outside the U.S.? There’s an additional fee for international testing locations.

How to Prepare for the GACE Test

Preparing for the GACE requires a well-structured approach to ensure you’re ready for the exam. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide to help you leverage effective study habits and ensure that you pass the GACE:

Get to Know Your GACE Exam

Start with a thorough understanding of your specific GACE test. Pick a study guide that mirrors the GACE content. A good guide not only covers the material but also includes practice questions.

Personalize Your Study Plan

Identify topics where you need improvement and allocate extra study time to those areas. Be sure to also establish a regular study routine to stay connected with the material.

Practice, Practice, Practice

Regularly take practice tests to get used to the exam’s style and improve your time management skills.

Test Day Tips and Requirements for the GACE

Feeling calm and prepared on your GACE test day is key to doing well. Along with being up to speed on your study material, it’s just as important to know what to expect and what you need to bring.

Essential Items to Bring

Make sure to have an original, valid, government-issued ID that shows your full name, photo, and signature. A passport, driver’s license, or a state ID card are good options. Double-check that your name on the ID matches the one on your admission ticket. Also be sure to bring along your test confirmation details.

Arriving at the Test Center

Aim to get to the testing center well ahead of your exam time. This gives you a buffer to deal with any last-minute hiccups and helps you settle in comfortably. Before test day, familiarize yourself with the test center’s rules, like what items you’re allowed to bring into the exam room. Being clear on these details can help avoid any unnecessary stress on the day of the exam.

Staying Calm

We know this can be easier said than done, but try your best to keep your nerves in check. Remember to take deep breaths if you feel anxious. Staying focused and calm is as important as your knowledge of the material.

Understanding Your GACE Scores

So, you’ve taken the GACE and received a score. What will that score even mean? Let’s dive in.

The GACE exams come with two pass levels: induction and professional. Remember, if your test has multiple parts, you need to pass each one to meet the certification criteria. The induction level is basically your entry point into the teaching world. It indicates you have the essential skills and knowledge to kick off your teaching career, usually reflected by scoring around 220 in most GACE exams. On the other hand, the professional level is for those who’ve gained more experience and expertise. A score of about 250 or higher signifies that you’re at this level, showing you have a more advanced understanding of educational concepts and are ready for more complex teaching challenges.

This distinction is crucial for a couple of reasons. Firstly, it helps you chart your career path: the induction level is your starting line, while the professional level points toward career advancement and more specialized teaching roles. Secondly, depending on the specific requirements in Georgia, achieving a professional level score might be necessary for certain advanced teaching position.

Your result will show up as a scaled score, along with a clear “pass” or “not pass.” The passing score is different for each exam. Take the ASLPI as an example, where you need a 220 for the induction level or 250 for the professional level. In contrast, exams like the Educational Leadership require a 250 to pass.

Retakes and Next Steps After the GACE

If your first shot at the GACE doesn’t go as planned, you’ll be eligible to retake the exam. For most GACE exams, you need to wait 30 days before you can try again. The Paraprofessional exam is a bit different – you only wait 28 days. Keep in mind that you’ll need to sign up and pay the fees for the exam again. That’s why it’s a good idea to really buckle down and study hard to improve your odds of passing the next time around.

How to Boost Your Score for a Retake

Review Your Previous Attempt: Look at where you had trouble last time and zero in on those areas in your studies.

Use Study Resources: Resources like 240 Tutoring’s study guides, which come with practice questions and materials, can be a huge help.

Change Up Your Study Tactics: If you need a little extra help, consider getting a tutor or trying different study methods.

After You Pass The GACE: What Comes Next?

If you’ve passed the GACE, congratulations! That’s a big step towards becoming a certified teacher in Georgia! The next step will be applying for your teaching certification. This brings you one step closer to your dream of teaching and making a real difference in students’ lives. Cheers to your success and the bright journey ahead in your teaching career!