Start Here · 3 min read
Exam Overview
The GACE Economics (719) exam is a subject-area assessment required for individuals seeking certification to teach economics at the secondary level in Georgia. The exam evaluates your understanding of economic principles and your ability to apply them in instructional and real-world contexts.
Administering Body
- The exam is administered by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC)
- Testing services are delivered through ETS (Educational Testing Service)
Why this matters
- Certification decisions are based on GaPSC standards
- The exam aligns with state-approved teaching competencies
Exam Pattern and Structure
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Test Code | Economics (719) |
| Test Format | Computer-based test |
| Question Type | Multiple-choice |
| Number of Questions | Approximately 75–100 questions |
| Time Duration | Around 2 hours |
| Sections | Integrated (no separate timed sections) |
| Scoring Scale | 100–300 scale |
| Passing Score | Typically 220 (may vary slightly) |
Key Content Areas Assessed
The exam is structured around three primary domains:
- Microeconomics
- Macroeconomics
- Financial Literacy
Question Design
- Concept-based questions
- Scenario-based applications
- Data interpretation (graphs, charts, tables)
Scoring System
- Scores are reported on a scaled range of 100 to 300
- A passing score is usually 220
Score Interpretation
- 220 or above → Meets certification requirement
- Below 220 → Retake required
What is measured
- Accuracy of responses
- Depth of conceptual understanding
- Ability to apply economic reasoning
Testing Time and Management
- Total testing time is approximately 120 minutes
- No scheduled breaks within the session
Recommended pacing
- Allocate about 1–1.5 minutes per question
- Reserve final minutes for review
Importance of the Exam
Certification Requirement
Mandatory for becoming a certified Economics (6–12) teacher in Georgia public schools
Professional Qualification
- Demonstrates subject-matter competency
- Validates readiness to teach economics concepts effectively
Instructional Readiness
Assesses your ability to:
- Interpret economic data
- Apply theory to real-world situations
- Support student understanding in classroom settings
What This Means for You
- You must go beyond memorization
- Focus on application, analysis, and interpretation
- Practice working with graphs, data, and policy scenarios
Quick Exam Snapshot
- Computer-based, multiple-choice exam
- Covers microeconomics, macroeconomics, and financial literacy
- Approximately 75–100 questions
- 2-hour duration
- Passing score around 220
Focus on mastering core concepts and applying them in different contexts. This approach aligns directly with how the exam evaluates your performance.
Finished reading?
Next, start the first chapter.