As part of the NHDOE Licensure requirements, students enrolled in an educator preparation program leading to certification must meet the Basic Academic Skills Assessment (BASA) in reading, writing, and math. This requirement reflects learning typically acquired between middle school and tenth grades. It is strongly recommended that students complete this requirement as soon as possible while middle and high school coursework remains freshest in memory.
In 2024, the NH DOE adopted Essential Academic Skills tests administered by Pearson National Evaluation Series for teacher candidates to meet the basic skills requirement.
Further information about these tests are available as follows:
| Pearson National Evaluation Series | Passing Score |
| Essential Academic Skills Subtest I: Reading (005) | 220 |
| Essential Academic Skills Subtest II: Writing (006) | 220 |
| Essential Academic Skills Subtest III: Mathematics (007) | 220 |
Preparation materials for these tests are available on the PNES website.
IMPORTANT: Praxis Core is still an acceptable means of meeting the basic skills requirement. Students who have met the basic skills requirement with ETS Praxis Core assessments are exempt from taking the new Essential Skills Tests and do not need to apply for a test evaluation waiver. Students who have not yet met all or part of the basic skills requirement may choose to continue with Praxis Core assessments or to take PNES Essential Academic Skills tests to meet the remainder of their basic skills requirement.
Other options for the Basic Skills Test Requirement are:
- ETS Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators tests (administered by ETS) are still accepted by the NH DOE. More information can be found on the Holmes Center Praxis Core webpage.
- Reading (5713) - passing score = 156
- Writing (5723) - passing score = 162
- Mathematics (5733) - passing score = 150
- Performance at or above a predetermined score (set by the NHDOE) on a nationally recognized test in the areas of reading, writing, and/or mathematics such as, but not limited to, the SAT, GRE, or ACT. Submit the online Test Evaluation Request (waiver application), and upload a copy of your score report directly to the NHDOE.
Important: Some states outside of New England may require different basic skills assessments. Contact the Holmes Center with questions.
Eligible for Accommodations? - Do not Delay!
Pearson National Evaluation Series provides accommodations for Test takers with disabilities or health-related needs. You must first register for the tests you wish to take without scheduling test dates, then apply for and receive approval for accommodations for tests. Please visit the page for the test/s you wish to take for more information. You will find it (called Alternative Arrangements) toward the bottom of the list.
