What the Course Entails and Exam Details

While the test is often taken after completing a Master's degree, the content reflects the culmination of an intensive graduate-level educational program. The Praxis 5331 test covers three major content areas: Foundations and Professional Practice; Screening, Assessment, Evaluation, and Diagnosis; and Planning, Implementation, and Evaluation of Treatment.

These core domains encompass a wide array of sub-topics including typical development across the lifespan, etiologies of various disorders, the ASHA Code of Ethics, legislative and regulatory requirements, and research methodologies. A significant portion of the exam assesses knowledge of specific communication disorders such as speech-sound, fluency, voice and resonance, language, social communication, cognitive-communication, and AAC. Additionally, the exam tests comprehension of swallowing and feeding disorders, hearing assessment, and counseling for patients and families.

What to Expect in the Final Exam

The final exam is a computer-based test consisting of 132 multiple-choice questions, which may include "select-all-that-apply" and "drag-and-drop" items. You will be given a total of 150 minutes, or 2.5 hours, to complete the exam. This time is dedicated to answering the questions; any time used for check-in or tutorials is not counted against this time limit.

The exam is scored on a scaled range of 100 to 200 points. To satisfy the requirement for ASHA’s CCC-SLP, candidates must achieve a passing score of 162. State licensure boards generally adopt this score, though individual requirements can vary, so it is crucial to verify your specific state's passing score requirement. It is important to note that your score is based solely on the number of correct answers, so there is no penalty for guessing, making it always beneficial to provide an answer for every question.

How to Study and Exam Centers

Preparation is key to succeeding on the Praxis 5331. Start by familiarizing yourself with the official ETS Study Companion, which provides a detailed breakdown of the exam's content and format. Utilize official ETS full-length interactive practice tests, which simulate the real testing environment and provide immediate feedback on your performance. Create a structured study plan that dedicates time to each major content domain, focusing on areas where your knowledge is less robust.

A common and effective strategy is to create flashcards for key definitions, development milestones, disorder characteristics, and ethical principles. The exam is administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) and can be taken at various authorized Prometric testing centers throughout the United States and internationally. You may also have the option to take the test at home via a live remote proctoring service. Registration is completed online through the ETS Praxis portal, where you can select your preferred testing date and location during available windows throughout the year.

Job Opportunities from the Course

Passing the Praxis Speech-Language Pathology (5331) exam is the definitive step towards becoming a licensed SLP, unlocking numerous career opportunities within various institutions and with diverse populations. Here is a list of job opportunities this certification unlocks:

• Speech-Language Pathologist

• Early Intervention Speech-Language Pathologist

• Educational Speech-Language Pathologist (K-12)

• Acute Care Speech-Language Pathologist

• Rehabilitation Speech-Language Pathologist

• Home Health Speech-Language Pathologist

• Private Practice Speech-Language Pathologist

• Geriatric Speech-Language Pathologist (in skilled nursing facilities)

• Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist (in specialized clinics)

• Clinical Supervisor (in a university setting)

• Speech-Language Consultant

• University Professor (typically requires a doctoral degree)