Mandatory Assessments
Core Academic Skills for Educators
The test assess reading, writing, and mathematical skills.
A passing score on the math portion of this test is required for acceptance into the Teacher Education Program at VSU. Please note that all pre-candidates must be accepted into the Teacher Education program prior to registering for Professional Studies Courses.
Waive Core Academic Skills for Educators with SAT Scores
You can be exempted from taking the Core Academic Skills for Educators test for math if your SAT® scores meet certain minimums. Please consult the Chair of the Department of Teaching and Learning for more information.
Praxis II
Passing scores on the PRAXIS II: Specialty Area Subject Assessment Tests are a prerequisite for student teaching. The Virginia Board of Education has adopted new specialty area tests and new minimum scores for many of the teacher licensure areas. Changes in specialty area test requirements may occur over the next several years. Please make sure that you have the most current requirements before registering for a specialty area test.
Tests at a Glance (TAAG)
It is important to review subject content prior to taking the Praxis II tests. Download the Tests at a Glance booklet for your subject area. TAGG provides information on the design and content of each test, as well as sample items.
Be sure to have your scores sent to VSU. The VSU test code is RA5860.
Reading for Virginia Educators (RVE)
This Reading Assessment is in addition to the Core Academics for Educators Math test and Praxis II (Subject Area Test) and is required for Elementary and Special Education endorsement areas.
For RVE program information, registration bulletin, Internet registration, and study guide, click here. The RVE cut score is 157 and above.
Virginia Communication & Literacy Assessment (VCLA)
The Virginia Communication and Literacy Assessment became effective January 1, 2006, for initial licensure unless an individual meets the exemption criteria. Refer to the following Web site for more information about the test content, test dates, costs, accommodations for individuals with disabilities, and registration: www.va.nesinc.com.
On March 22, 2006, the Board of Education approved cut scores for the Virginia Communication and Literacy Assessment (VCLA).
- Writing Sub Test: 235
- Reading Sub Test: 235
- Composite Score: 470