When Should i schedule my praxis? Plus, a freebie for figuring it out!

​This question pops up in almost every conversation I have with a SLP test-taker.

And, there's not always a ton of guidance given here. So you're left to figure it out on your own as you're juggling all of the things coming your way... finals, comps, graduation, job search, apply for CF, apply for licensure...

⭐️It is highly recommended you complete all your graduate courses and clinical practicums before taking the praxis.

Here's a few things to consider when thinking of your timeline and when to schedule your praxis:

1. Does your graduate school require the praxis before graduation? Some schools are requiring their SLP students to pass the praxis before graduation as part of their comps process. This is your starting place of figuring out if your school requires it. If they do, then your timeline is sort of predetermined for you. If they don’t, then continue reading.
2. Does your state have its own special guideline for when the praxis needs to be passed? Laws and guidelines vary by state. Some states align with ASHA guidelines and give you the duration of your CF to pass the praxis.  Some states require the praxis to be passed before starting your CF job (in particularly if you’re in a medical setting or billing certain entities). Some states also have different guidelines and licenses for educational settings versus medical settings, so be sure to clarify which license you are applying for when inquiring with your state board. This is your next piece of the puzzle to figure out before moving on to number 3. 
3. Now, what’s your personal preference? pt. 1: If you answered ‘No’ to the first two questions here, then you probably have the most flexibility with creating your timeline. So, here’s your next question: How many subject areas do you want to study? You can be strategic here and use my Strengths & Weaknesses profile (free download) to help guide you in planning. The S&W profile helps to organize the big nine clinical areas covered on the praxis 5331, and it also displays the testing areas for all subject areas.  PS it takes about three months to cover all big areas, plus a few lesser common areas. Keep reading!
4. And Lastly, what's your personal preference, pt. 2: How much time do you want to give to studying? Again, this is a personal preference and will depend on your individual circumstances. Let me take a second to say: Time is your most valuable resource in your preparation! If you're looking for general baseline, I suggest starting with a three month study plan. This will give you enough time to cover all subject areas, avoid cramming, allow for repeat study days, and even have days to rest, relax, & hang with friends and family. Recharge days are crucial! 

So, now that you know the main things to consider when figuring out your timeline, here's to planning!

P.S.  if you're someone that has only so much time to give, or too many things to juggle, consider scheduling a tutor session so we can work together to strategically craft your individual study plan. I can help you get through those study barriers and obstacles so you can check off your study steps, one topic at a time. 

P.P.S I personally took my praxis a couple months after I graduated that way I could first focus on my comps and graduation, and then I switched gears a bit. It’s what worked for me and my circumstances!