Certification Standards for Speech-Language Pathology Frequently Asked Questions: Summative Assessment

What mechanism is used for summative assessment?

The summative assessment used for ASHA certification is the Praxis series examination in speech-language pathology administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS).

Is the graduate program responsible for assuring that the students take the Praxis exam prior to graduation?

No, it is the student's responsibility to be sure that they have completed the examination at the appropriate time. The Praxis examination is designed to be taken once graduate academic course work and clinical practicum have been completed, but in many situations students take the exam as they are beginning their final year in the graduate program.

What is the minimum passing Praxis score required for ASHA certification?

The current passing score in speech-language pathology is 162. In order for an applicant's score to be accepted for ASHA certification, it must be reported to ASHA by ETS. Score reports received directly from applicants are not acceptable for certification purposes.

How many times can I take the Praxis exam?

There is no limit to how many times you can take the Praxis exam to earn your ASHA certification. To verify state licensure requirements, please see the state-by-state information page.

How long do scores remain valid?

Exam results submitted for certification in speech-language pathology must have been obtained no more than 5 years prior to the submission of the certification application. Scores older than 5 years are considered expired and cannot be accepted for certification.