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I'm a teacher candidate at a university/college I'd like to transition to teaching I'm a current / former teacher I'm in leadership for K-12 or Higher Ed (EPP)Everything You Need To Know About NES Test Results and Passing Scores
Preparing to take the NES? You’re starting in the right place! We know you’ve got a ton of questions, especially about how the NES is scored, how hard this entry-level teaching test is, when you will get your results and most importantly how to pass.
In this article, we will tell you how these tests are scored and what score you need to pass a test. Then we will show you how long it will take to get your NES scores and how to interpret your score report once you’ve received it. We will also cover a few tips on how to study, so you can make sure you pass.
Let’s get started with the basics. The NES (National Evaluation Series) is a teacher certification series from the Evaluation Systems group of Pearson that tests subject and pedagogy standards for a number of states across the U.S., including Arizona, Washington and Oregon. It covers subjects ranging from essential academic skills in reading, writing, and mathematics as well as technology literacy in elementary reading instruction and English to speakers of other languages.
How Hard Is It To Pass an NES Exam?
Many experienced educators created the NES exams to ensure you have the necessary knowledge to be an entry-level teacher. The NES exams can be difficult if you have not prepared. Preparation is key!
Most of the NES tests are multiple-choice, but several of them also contain constructed-response questions. These can be in the form of case studies or written assignments. Make sure you are prepared for these types of questions by ensuring you can organize your thoughts and write your response within the time allowed.
One of the best ways to know where you’ll struggle and how much preparation you need is to take a practice test before you begin studying. There might be certain areas in which you are very strong that you don’t need to spend a lot of time on. The majority of test-takers will need to put in at least a few weeks of studying to do well on the NES exams. We’ve put all of our free resources, including NES practice tests, in one place so you can get started.
How Are the NES Exams Scored?
NES exams are calculated by taking your raw score and converting it to a scaled score. The raw score is the number of multiple-choice questions you answered correctly plus any points from constructed-response questions. The scaled score ranges from 100 to 300.
The scaled score allows for a consistent standard across the board so that candidates and states can easily understand the scores. For example, while the number of questions on different administrations of the same exam will stay the same, the difficulty level and focus of those questions will vary. Converting raw scores to scaled scores allows the test maker to adjust for these variations. For more information on how the NES exams are scored, visit here. While test-takers are always looking for ways to convert their scores during the test, we don’t recommend this. Focus on doing the best you can on the test.
How Long Does It Take To Get NES Scores?
If your test is all multiple-choice questions, you will see your results at the testing facility when you complete it. Your official score report will be released two weeks after testing, and in this case, it is not likely to change. If your test consists of both multiple-choice and constructed-response questions, you will still see your score for the multiple-choice questions immediately, but your official score report incorporating the constructed-response questions will be released four weeks after testing.
Start studying for your next NES exam by taking a free practice test!
What Score Do You Need To Pass the NES Test?
The NES is scored using a scaled score ranging from 100 to 300. The national benchmark for NES exams is a score of 220. States that require or use NES exams can choose their own passing score. Check with your state to find out what benchmark they use.
How Do You Interpret an NES Score Report?
To get consistent scores, NES uses scaled scoring. When you receive your score report, you will also receive an explanation of how to read and interpret your score report.
Your raw score is the number of multiple-choice questions you answer correctly plus any points from constructed-response questions. The raw scores are converted to a scaled score. If you want more information on how to interpret your scores, visit here.
How Long Do You Have To Wait Before You Can Retake an NES Exam?
If you want to retake an NES exam, you must wait 30 days. To retake an exam, you need to register for the exam again and make sure to schedule the retake at least 30 days after your initial exam. You will also need to pay the fees again.
Give yourself plenty of time to prepare to retake an NES exam. Analyze your score report from your original test to see what areas need work. Use the 30-day waiting period to focus on those weaknesses.
Where Do You Find Study Resources And Study Guides For the NES?
There is an overwhelming amount of study resources for NES exams. It can be challenging to determine which ones are reputable and worth the investment. The best resources for NES exams are study guides and practice tests that are frequently updated and aligned with the specific test you’re taking. Experts knowledgeable in particular content areas write the study guides at 240 Tutoring. These study guides come with a pass guarantee and include a free practice test. You can take one before buying a study guide so you can see your strengths and weaknesses. Go here to find NES study guides for the most popular NES exams.
How To Study For the NES?
Before jumping into studying, take a practice test. This will make it obvious where you should focus your studying. Give yourself at least a few weeks to prepare. It is better to study a little bit each day rather than cram everything into a short amount of time. Break the study guide into sections and come up with a study plan. This will ensure that you will cover all topics before the exam.
Once you have your test date scheduled, you should immediately begin studying. Allowing yourself plenty of time is essential. Having a great test-aligned study guide will help you immensely. It will save you time because you won’t need to gather the information. You can start studying right away. Using a quality study guide will save you time and money because then you won’t need to retake the test. If you don’t have enough time to prepare, at least check out our tips on effective cramming.
We recommend that you begin by taking a practice test to figure out which areas are difficult for you. Then come up with a study plan by breaking up the study guide into sections. Having a goal will ensure you finish all parts before the test date.
Now that we’ve given you some great resources to help you better understand the scoring process, you’re all set to pass your NES exam!