Overview of Iowa Testing Requirements

How to Qualify for Licensure

To qualify for an initial educator license in Iowa, candidates must:

• Earn a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution.
• Complete an approved teacher preparation program.
• Complete an approved human relations component.
• Complete a component focused on exceptional learners.
• Fulfill requirements for a teaching endorsement.
• Meet recency requirement listed under the Class A License.

See Requirements for Licenses, including a standard license, master educator license and Class A license.

Access the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners for comprehensive information on license application procedures and forms.

Who Must Take the Tests?

As one requirement for completion of an Iowa state-approved teacher preparation program, every new teacher candidate must attain the state-determined qualifying score on a content test and a pedagogy test. Consequently, all new teachers in Iowa who have completed an approved Iowa preparation program are considered highly qualified under No Child Left Behind (NCLB), as long they are teaching in the appropriate license/endorsement area(s).

When and Where to Take the Test

Candidates should follow the recommendations of their respective teacher education programs. Test centers and dates are available on this website.

Cost of the Test

Visit the fees page for information on the cost of each test.

Where to Send Test Scores

Request that your score be sent to the institution where you are completing your teacher preparation program. Your score must be received by your college/university program for program completion.

Teaching Outside of Iowa

Be sure to consult other state requirements if you plan to teach outside of the state of Iowa.

See also:

• About the Praxis™ Tests
• The Praxis Series™ Information Bulletin
• Prepare for a Test
• Register for a Test
• Accommodations for Test Takers with Disabilities