NES Exam & NES Certification Info
NES stands for National Evaluation Series, a group of teacher certification tests developed by the Evaluation Systems group of Pearson. The NES teacher certification tests are comprehensive exams aligned to professionally accepted national learning standards, covering areas such as Essential Academic Skills, Professional Knowledge, Elementary Education, and various Secondary Education subjects.
Below are the steps to take the NES certification exams:
Step 1: Eligibility and Application
Before taking an NES test, ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements. These may vary depending on the state and the specific test you plan to take. You must apply for the test via the official NES website.
Step 2: Scheduling the Exam
Once your application is approved, you can schedule your test. The NES exams are computer-based and are offered by appointment year-round, Monday through Saturday (excluding some holidays), at flexible times and locations.
Step 3: Taking the Exam
On the day of the exam, arrive at the testing center at the scheduled time. Be sure to bring the necessary identification. The specific process and rules may vary depending on the test center.
The NES tests are administered at Pearson VUE authorized test centers which are located throughout the United States and internationally. You can find a test center near you using the Test Center Locator on the NES website.
What is NES Elementary Assessments?
NES Elementary Assessments Exams
The NES Early Childhood Education Certification Test is a comprehensive examination for prospective teachers in this specialization. It assesses the candidates' knowledge and skills in language, literacy, social studies, arts, health, science, and mathematics instruction for children up to age eight. The test consists of multiple-choice questions and constructed-response assignments based on case studies. A passing score qualifies candidates to teach in early childhood education settings. It is a crucial step in becoming a certified early childhood educator, ensuring that teachers are well-prepared to foster the development and learning of young children.
Language and Literacy Development - 29%
Learning Across the Curriculum - 36%
Professional Relationships and Responsibilities - 14%
The NES Elementary Education Subtest I certification test is a comprehensive examination designed to assess foundational knowledge and skills necessary for teaching at the elementary level. It covers a range of subject areas including Reading and Language Arts, Social Studies, Art, Health, and Physical Education. The test, which is typically required for certification as an elementary school teacher in many U.S. states, consists of multiple-choice questions and requires critical analysis and application of principles. Preparation for this test requires thorough study and understanding of key educational concepts and methodologies.
Social Studies - 38%
The NES Elementary Education Subtest II is a certification exam designed for aspiring elementary school teachers. It assesses their knowledge and skills in areas vital for teaching social studies, science, health, and arts. The test contains multiple-choice questions, divided into four sections, each corresponding to a specific subject area. This rigorous examination requires a deep understanding of the subjects and effective teaching strategies. Passing this certification test is crucial for educators as it demonstrates their competency and preparedness to deliver high-quality education at the elementary level.
Science - 38%
The Arts, Health, and Fitness - 12%
The NES Essential Components of Elementary Reading Instruction certification test evaluates the proficiency of aspiring teachers in basic reading instruction principles. It covers five core areas: foundations of reading development, development of reading comprehension, reading assessment, and instruction, integration of knowledge and understanding. The test consists of multiple-choice questions, requiring a deep understanding of phonics, vocabulary, fluency, comprehension, assessment techniques, and reading instruction strategies. This certification ensures that elementary educators are well-versed in delivering effective reading instruction, promoting literacy, and addressing diverse student needs.
Word Analysis and Fluency Development - 25%
Vocabulary and Comprehension Development - 25%
Reading Different Types of Text - 19%
The Literate Environment and the Classroom Reading Professional - 12%
What is NES Essential Academic Skills?
NES Essential Academic Skills Exams
The NES Essential Academic Skills Math certification test is a comprehensive exam designed for prospective teachers. It assesses the mathematical knowledge and competencies required for an entry-level educator. The test comprises various topics, including numbers and operations, algebra, geometry, statistics, probability, and measurement. Test-takers must demonstrate understanding and application of mathematical concepts, problem-solving strategies, and mathematical reasoning. This computer-based test is crucial for earning teaching credentials in many states in the USA. It is an essential step in ensuring that educators possess adequate math skills to teach effectively.
Understand fundamental principles of algebra.
Understand measurement principles and geometry concepts.
Understand probability and statistics.
Understand problem solving, reasoning, and mathematical communication.
The NES Essential Academic Skills Reading certification test is a comprehensive assessment for prospective educators. It evaluates a candidate's proficiency in understanding, interpreting, and analyzing various types of written material. The test focuses on key areas such as identifying main ideas, recognizing relationships, and making inferences. It also measures the ability to evaluate, synthesize, and apply information from texts effectively. This rigorous exam plays a vital role in ensuring that educators are competent and prepared to provide quality instruction in a variety of academic settings.
Understand the main idea and supporting details in written material.
Understand a writer's purpose and audience, point of view, and intended meaning.
Use critical reasoning skills to evaluate written material.
Understand the organization of information in written and graphic forms.
The NES Essential Academic Skills Technology Literacy certification test is designed to assess a candidate's understanding and capabilities in utilizing technology effectively in educational settings. This includes areas like computer operations and applications, digital citizenship, and information literacy. The test aims to ensure that educators possess the technological skills necessary to enhance learning experiences in modern classrooms. It is part of the National Evaluation Series by Pearson, known for providing comprehensive, teacher-certification tests for educators across the United States.
Understand computer-based technology for research and communication.
The NES Essential Academic Skills Writing certification test is a comprehensive exam designed for prospective educators. It evaluates the candidate's ability to effectively communicate in written English. The test covers areas like writing mechanics, grammar, sentence structure, and the organization of ideas. It also measures the ability to write coherent essays, focusing on the development of ideas, transitions, and the use of supporting details. The test is computer-based and is often a requirement for those seeking teaching certification. It helps ensure teachers have the essential writing skills needed for effective instruction.
1 - Essay/
Constructed Response
Understand purpose, audience, organization, and development in writing.
Understand problems in sentence formation.
Understand conventions of Standard Written English grammar, usage,and mechanics.
Written - 25%
In response to an assignment, demonstrate the ability to compose a
developed composition in Standard Written English on a given topic.
What is NES K–12 Assessments?
NES K–12 Assessments Exams
The NES Art certification test is a comprehensive examination for aspiring art educators aspiring to teach in the K-12 education system. It covers a broad range of topics including art history, visual art production, analysis and interpretation of works, and the integration of art into the curriculum. The test consists of multiple-choice questions, and assessments requiring candidates to demonstrate their understanding of art concepts, techniques, and teaching methodologies. It is designed to ensure that certified teachers have the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively teach art in a classroom setting.
Art Media, Tools, Technologies, Techniques, and Processes - 33%
Visual Arts in Historical and Cultural Contexts - 33%
Aesthetics and Art Criticism - 12%
Connecting the Visual Arts to Other Disciplines - 11%
The NES English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) certification test is a comprehensive examination aimed at educators who wish to teach English to non-native speakers. The test evaluates the candidate's understanding of language acquisition theories, proficiency in English language instruction, and knowledge of diverse cultures. It covers several areas including listening and speaking, reading and writing, and culture. This certification is often required for teaching positions in schools that have a large population of students for whom English is not their first language.
Foundations of ESOL Instruction - 40%
Instruction and Assessment of English Language Learners - 40%
The NES Health Certification Test is an examination that validates a practitioner's understanding and proficiency in utilizing the NES Health system. This system is a revolutionary approach to holistic health that uses bioenergetic scanning and therapy. The test covers areas such as body field analysis, miHealth device usage, and infoceutical recommendations. Passing the certification test enables practitioners to provide NES Health services, assisting clients in restoring their energy for optimal health and wellbeing. It is a significant step in becoming a certified bioenergetic practitioner.
Health Promotion and Risk Reduction - 40%
Health Advocacy and Literacy - 30%
The NES Physical Education Certification Test is a comprehensive examination for aspiring physical education teachers. It assesses their knowledge, skills, and abilities in the field of physical education. The test covers a wide range of topics, including human growth and development, fitness and exercise science, movement activities, and the promotion of lifelong physical activity. This rigorous exam ensures that certified physical education teachers have the necessary competencies to effectively teach physical education and foster the health and fitness of their students.
Movement Activities - 25%
Lifelong Physical Fitness - 25%
The Physical Education Program - 25%
The NES School Counselor Certification Test is a comprehensive assessment for prospective school counselors. It evaluates knowledge and skills in three areas: student development and learning, comprehensive school counseling program, and professional knowledge and practices. The test includes multiple-choice questions and written assignments. Passing this test is often a requirement for school counseling licensure or certification. The exam is computer-based and the duration is approximately three hours. High scores demonstrate a candidate's proficiency and readiness to work as a school counselor.
Comprehensive School Counseling Program - 45%
Professional Knowledge and Practice - 33%
The NES (National Evaluation Series) School Library Media Specialist certification test is a comprehensive exam for aspiring school librarians. It measures the candidates' understanding and application of key concepts related to library management, information resources, learning, and teaching strategies. The test comprises 150 multiple-choice questions, covering areas like program administration, information access, learning and teaching, and professional development. The NES School Library Media Specialist certification test is typically necessary for those seeking to work as certified librarians in K-12 schools. It ensures that they possess the requisite skills and knowledge to manage school libraries effectively.
Promoting Information Literacy Skills - 40%
Program Administration - 30%
The NES Spanish certification test is a comprehensive examination designed to assess the knowledge and skills of aspiring Spanish teachers in the United States. The test, administered by the National Evaluation Series, covers a wide range of topics including Spanish language proficiency, cultural understanding, and teaching methodologies. It consists of multiple-choice questions and written responses in Spanish. Passing this test is often a requirement for those seeking licensure or certification to teach Spanish in American public schools.
Interpretive Reading
Language Structures
Cultural Understanding
The NES Special Education K-12 certification test is an examination that qualifies educators to teach special education in grades K-12. It evaluates knowledge in areas like student development, assessments, instructional strategies, and professional practices. The test contains multiple-choice questions, with a testing duration of approximately 3 hours. The NES Special Education K-12 certification is mandatory in many states for individuals seeking to become special education teachers, ensuring that educators are well-equipped to cater to the unique learning needs of special education students.
Assessment and Program Planning - 20%
Learning Environments and Instructional Practices - 40%
Foundations and Professional Practice - 20%
What is NES Middle Grades Assessments?
NES Middle Grades Assessments Exams
The NES Middle Grades English Language Arts certification test is a comprehensive assessment for prospective middle school English teachers. This exam evaluates candidates' understanding and knowledge of literature, reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Covering areas like reading process, reading comprehension, writing processes and applications, language conventions, and vocabulary, it ensures the educator is equipped to teach English Language Arts effectively. The test consists of multiple-choice questions and is a computer-based exam. Successful completion provides certification to teach English Language Arts in middle grades, ensuring high-quality education for students.
Reading Various Text Forms and Analyzing and Interpreting Literature - 29%
English Language Conventions, Composition, Writing Process, and Research - 15%
Modes of Writing - 21%
Oral and Visual Communication - 14%
The NES Middle Grades General Science certification test assesses the proficiency of aspiring middle school science teachers. This comprehensive exam measures understanding of various scientific concepts and principles, including Earth and space science, physical science, life science, and scientific inquiry and procedures. It also evaluates the candidate's ability to apply pedagogical skills to teach these subjects effectively. The test is computer-based, consisting of multiple-choice questions, and is a prerequisite in some states for a teaching license. A thorough mastery of middle grades science content is vital for success in this test.
Physical Science - 31%
Life Science - 25%
Earth and Space Science - 25%
The NES Middle Grades Mathematics certification test is a computer-based examination designed to assess the knowledge and skills necessary for teaching mathematics in middle grades. The test consists of multiple-choice questions covering areas such as number sense and operations, algebra, geometry, measurement, data analysis, statistics, probability, and mathematical processes. Passing this test is a requirement for those planning to teach mathematics in the middle grades in some states. The test is designed to ensure that educators have the necessary knowledge and understanding of mathematics to teach effectively at this level.
Algebra and Functions - 33%
Measurement and Geometry - 25%
Statistics, Probability, and Discrete Mathematics - 25%
The NES Middle Grades Social Science certification test is a comprehensive exam for aspiring middle school social science teachers. It covers a broad range of topics, including history, geography, economics, government, and behavioral sciences. The test includes multiple-choice questions and is designed to evaluate the candidate's knowledge and understanding of these subjects. It aims to ensure that certified teachers are sufficiently prepared to teach social science in middle grade levels. A passing score on this test is required in some states to obtain a teaching license in this field.
Geography and Culture - 19%
Government - 19%
Economics - 12%
What is NES Professional Knowledge?
NES Professional Knowledge Exams
The NES Assessment of Professional Knowledge: Elementary is a certification exam for aspiring elementary school educators. It evaluates a candidate's understanding of teaching methodologies, student assessment techniques, and professional practices. The test consists of multiple-choice questions and written assignments, covering subjects like child development, curriculum planning, and classroom management. This certification is required in several U.S states for those seeking licensure as elementary school teachers. The test ensures educators are adequately prepared to foster a productive, inclusive, and respectful learning environment for diverse student populations.
2 - Essay/
Constructed Response
Assessment, Instruction, and the Learning Environment - 40%
Assessment, Instruction, and the Learning Environment (Written Assignment) - 10%
The Professional Environment - 16%
The Professional Environment (Written Assignment) - 10%
The NES Assessment of Professional Knowledge: Secondary is a certification test for aspiring secondary school teachers. It evaluates knowledge and skills required for the entry-level education profession. The test covers areas like student development and learning, assessment, instruction, the professional environment, and more. The exam, consisting of multiple-choice questions and written assignments, requires a comprehensive understanding of secondary education. Passing this test is often a requirement for obtaining a teaching license in states that recognize the NES certification. It is a significant step towards a career in secondary education.
2 - Essay/
Constructed Response
Assessment, Instruction, and the Learning Environment - 40%
Assessment, Instruction, and the Learning Environment (Written Assignment) - 10%
The Professional Environment - 16%
The Professional Environment (Written Assignment) - 10%
What is NES Secondary Assessments?
NES Secondary Assessments Exams
The NES Biology certification test is a computer-based exam designed to assess the proficiency and knowledge of aspiring biology teachers. It covers key areas, including cellular and molecular biology, ecology, evolution, genetics, and scientific processes. The test consists of approximately 150 multiple-choice questions that need to be completed within a three-hour timeframe. The certification is recognized in many states in the U.S as a part of the licensing process for educators. It aims to ensure that certified teachers have the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively teach biology at the secondary level.
Biochemistry and Cell Biology - 13%
Genetics and Evolution - 27%
Biological Unity and Diversity - 20%
Ecology and Environment - 20%
The NES Business certification test is a comprehensive examination for aspiring business teachers, particularly in the United States. It evaluates proficiency in areas such as economics, marketing, management, finance, and entrepreneurship. This rigorous test measures the knowledge and skills required to effectively teach business in secondary schools. It consists of multiple-choice questions and covers a broad range of business-related topics. The NES Business certification test is a vital step towards becoming a qualified business education teacher, ensuring candidates possess the necessary understanding of business principles and practices.
Accounting, Personal Financial Management, and Quantitative Analysis - 19%
Economics and International Business - 19%
Marketing, E-Commerce, and Entrepreneurship - 19%
Business Communications, Technology, Career Development, and Professionalism - 25%
The NES Chemistry certification test is a comprehensive exam designed for prospective high school chemistry teachers. It evaluates candidates' understanding of fundamental concepts in chemistry, scientific inquiry, and laboratory procedures. The exam covers four main areas: nature of science; matter and atomic structure; energy, chemical bonds, and molecular structure; and chemical reactions. Additionally, it assesses the candidate's pedagogical skills in planning, managing, and implementing chemistry instruction and learning experiences. Successful completion of this test is a critical step towards becoming a certified chemistry teacher in many U.S. states.
Matter and Atomic Structure - 18%
Energy and Chemical Bonding - 23%
Chemical Reactions - 23%
Stoichiometry and Solutions - 18%
The NES Earth and Space Science certification test is a comprehensive examination designed for prospective teachers. It assesses knowledge and understanding of earth and space science concepts, principles, and processes. Topics covered include geology, meteorology, astronomy, oceanography, and environmental science. The test consists of multiple-choice questions, which require analysis and application of scientific data and principles. Passing the NES Earth and Space Science test demonstrates that candidates have the subject-area knowledge and teaching skills necessary to teach Earth and Space Science at the secondary level.
Geology - 25%
Oceanography and Freshwater Systems - 19%
The Atmosphere, Weather, and Climate - 19%
Astronomy - 19%
The NES English Language Arts certification test is a comprehensive assessment for prospective secondary school English Language Arts teachers. This computer-based exam evaluates understanding and skills in areas like literature, writing process, language development, and communication. The test comprises approximately 150 multiple-choice questions covering five domains. Test-takers are also assessed on their ability to integrate knowledge and ideas in their responses. Successful completion of the test is often a requirement for teacher certification in several U.S. states.
Analyzing and Interpreting Literature - 23%
English Language Conventions, Composition, Writing Process, and Research - 19%
Modes of Writing - 23%
Oral and Visual Communication - 12%
The NES Family and Consumer Sciences certification test is a comprehensive examination for educators aspiring to teach this subject. It covers a wide range of topics including nutrition, food preparation, family relationships, child development, and consumer economics. The test measures candidates' abilities in understanding, interpreting, and applying key concepts. It consists of approximately 150 multiple-choice questions, administered within a three-hour testing session. A passing score is required to earn a teaching certification in many U.S. states. The exam ensures that teachers are competent and ready to educate students in the complex, practical skills of Family and Consumer Sciences.
Resource Management and Consumer Skills - 25%
Nutrition and Foods - 25%
Workplace Skills and Careers - 17%
The NES General Science certification test is a comprehensive examination for aspiring science teachers. It covers a wide range of scientific concepts including earth and space science, physical science, and life science. The test also evaluates the test-taker's understanding of the nature of science and scientific inquiry, as well as their ability to understand and interpret scientific data. The exam consists of multiple choice questions and is used in many states for teacher certification in middle and high school science. The test is computer-based and candidates need to demonstrate their proficiency in general science knowledge.
Physical Science - 37%
Life Science - 25%
Earth and Space Science - 19%
The NES Gifted Education certification test is a comprehensive exam intended for educators seeking to specialize in teaching gifted students. The test evaluates the candidate's knowledge and understanding of concepts like characteristics and identification of gifted students, planning and implementing instruction, managing the learning environment, and professional practices. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions, structured to test both theoretical knowledge and practical application. Successful completion of this test often leads to a professional credential, enabling educators to work with gifted and talented students in various educational settings.
Assessment and Program Planning - 30%
Curriculum and Instruction - 40%
The NES History certification test is a comprehensive exam designed to assess the knowledge and skills of aspiring history teachers. It covers a broad spectrum of topics including world history, U.S. history, government, and geography. The test is divided into various subsections, each focusing on a specific area of history. It requires a deep understanding of historical events, cultures, and trends. The test, administered by the National Evaluation Series (NES), is primarily used in certain states in the U.S. to certify that teachers meet the necessary standards to teach history at different grade levels.
World History to 1450 - 18%
World History 1450 to the Present - 23%
U.S. History Precontact to 1877 - 23%
U.S. History 1877 to the Present - 23%
The NES Mathematics certification test is a computer-based examination for aspiring math teachers. It assesses understanding and knowledge of mathematical concepts, principles, and methodologies needed for teaching at the K-12 level. The test is composed of multiple-choice questions covering areas like number and operations, algebra, geometry, statistics, and probability. It is designed to ensure that certified teachers have the necessary skills and knowledge to educate students effectively. This certification is recognized in many states in the U.S. as a standard for teacher qualification.
Patterns, Algebra, and Functions - 24%
Measurement and Geometry - 19%
Trigonometry and Calculus - 19%
Statistics, Probability, and Discrete Mathematics - 19%
The NES Mathematics (Middle Grades and Early Secondary) certification test is a comprehensive examination for aspiring teachers aiming to teach math in middle and early secondary schools. It covers various mathematical concepts such as number sense, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and probability. The test evaluates the candidate's understanding of mathematical procedures, reasoning, and ability to apply mathematical knowledge in problem-solving scenarios. The test is computer-based and features multiple-choice questions. A successful performance on this exam is often a requirement for obtaining teaching credentials in many states.
Patterns, Algebra, and Functions - 28%
Measurement and Geometry - 24%
Statistics, Probability, and Discrete Mathematics - 24%
The NES Physics certification test is a comprehensive examination designed to certify potential teachers in physics. It assesses understanding of key physics concepts, principles, and theories, including classical mechanics, electricity and magnetism, waves, optics, thermodynamics, and modern physics. The test consists of multiple-choice questions, requiring critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Passing this examination signifies that the candidate has achieved a certain level of competency in physics education, according to the standards set by the National Evaluation Series. It is a crucial step towards becoming a certified physics teacher in many states in the U.S.
Mechanics - 28%
Electricity and Magnetism - 22%
Waves - 14%
Modern Physics - 22%
The NES Social Science certification test is a comprehensive examination for prospective teachers, measuring their understanding of key concepts in social science. The test covers five areas: History, Geography, Economics, Government/Civics, and Behavioral Sciences. The test comprises 150 multiple-choice questions to be answered in a 3-hour window. The certification is required in some states to ensure educators have the necessary knowledge and skills to teach social science at the secondary level. Subjects include world history, U.S. history, geography, economics, government, sociology, and psychology.
U.S. History - 25%
Geography and Culture - 19%
Government - 19%
Economics - 12%