What can vary by state regarding the Praxis tests?

Passing score requirements can indeed vary by state for the Praxis tests. Each state has its own regulations and standards for the education and assessment of teachers, which often translates into different benchmark scores that candidates must achieve to demonstrate their readiness for teaching. These passing scores are determined by each state's educational authorities based on various factors, including the specific needs and standards of the state's education system, as well as insights from educators and policymakers.

The rationale behind varying passing scores is to accommodate the diverse educational contexts and teacher preparation programs across different states, which may have different expectations for what constitutes a qualified and competent teacher. As a result, while the content and structure of the Praxis tests are generally standardized to ensure fairness and consistency in measuring teacher candidates' competencies, the scores required to pass can differ significantly. This means that candidates must be aware of their own state's requirements when preparing for and taking the Praxis tests.