Content Specialty Test (CSTs)
The Content Specialty Test (Visual Arts) is a REQUIRED exam that includes multiple-choice questions and a written assessment. It is a test that measures a candidate’s skills and knowledge of the field of certification. The test is offered both online and in person. Fees are roughly between $80 – $120 based on the format that participants choose. The minimum passing score is 220 (score range 100-300), which is equivalent to about 74% correct answers.
Educating All Students (EAS)
The Educating All Students test is a REQUIRED exam that includes sections of selected-response questions and constructed-response questions. The test measures a candidate’s pedagogical knowledge and skills to teach students with diverse backgrounds including students with disabilities, and English language learners. The EAS is a 2 hour and 15 min test, costing about $80. Participants will need to receive a score of 520 to pass.
Registration
Use this link to register on the NYCSTE website. If you haven’t taken a test before, you may have to create an account in order to select a testing time and place. Note that some testing centers do require COVID-19 vaccinations.
Preparation Aids
If you are looking for FREE practice tests, here are some suggestions…
- Ask fellow classmates that have already taken the test for their aids
- Check your local library for a free copy
- CST Quizlets & EAS Quizlets
If you are looking for courses or can afford to pay for other testing preparation options check out…
- NYCSTE Study Guides
- NYCSTE Frameworks
- EAS Preparation Materials & EAS Practice Test
- NYCSTE Practice Test, Study Guides, & Flashcards
- Amazon & other sites have full study books
Test Tips From Alumni
“The one for the EAS is “Deconstructing the NYSTCE” by Bridgette Gubernatis, which I promise was my ticket to pass this test. The reason why I found it particularly helpful was because it teaches you how to solve the EAS by understanding how the test itself is designed, instead of explaining all the concepts that you will learn about in your Inclusive Practices class. The EAS test is literally about knowing how to answer it, not about your knowledge in inclusive education (which doesn’t make sense but that’s how these tests go!)
Besides reading this guide, my takeaway for anyone thinking about taking the test: take at least one of the MEN Teach workshops. They regularly host EAS workshops, and I believe they are crucial to navigate the test without any stress.
The one for the CST is a link for the Mometrix book guide… However I think the key to pass the CST is building your art history knowledge in the areas you are not too familiar with and taking a bunch of practice tests.”