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Exam Overview
The GACE School Psychology exam (2025–2026) is a certification assessment required for individuals seeking to work as school psychologists in Georgia, USA.
It evaluates your ability to apply psychological principles in educational settings, not just recall theory.
Administering Body
- The exam is administered by Educational Testing Service (ETS)
- Conducted under the supervision of the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC)
Purpose
- Ensure candidates meet professional standards
- Verify readiness for school-based psychological practice
Exam Pattern
The assessment is divided into two subtests.
| Test | Code | Focus Area |
|---|---|---|
| Test I | 105 | Data, systems, legal/ethical practice |
| Test II | 106 | Consultation, interventions, development |
| Combined Test | 605 | Both Test I and II |
Number of Questions
- Total Questions (Combined Test): ~160 MCQs
- All questions are selected-response (multiple-choice)
Question Design
- Scenario-based questions
- Data interpretation items
- Application-focused problems
Time Allotment
| Test Type | Time |
|---|---|
| Single Subtest | ~2 hours |
| Combined Test | ~4 hours |
You must manage time efficiently across all sections.
Scoring System
- Score Scale: 100 to 300
- Passing Score: Typically 220 (subject to state updates)
Score Composition
- Based on correct responses
- No penalty for wrong answers
Content Coverage
The exam measures competence across:
- Data-based decision making
- Consultation and collaboration
- Academic and behavioral interventions
- Legal and ethical practices
- School systems and climate
- Diversity and development
Skills Assessed
You are expected to:
- Interpret assessment data accurately
- Select appropriate interventions
- Apply research to practice
- Collaborate with school teams
- Follow legal and ethical standards
Importance of the Exam
Certification Requirement
Required for state licensure in school psychology (Georgia)
Professional Readiness
Confirms ability to:
- Support student learning
- Address behavioral and emotional needs
- Work within school systems
Career Advancement
Essential for employment in:
- Public schools
- Educational agencies
- Psychological services
What Makes This Exam Challenging
- Focus on application, not memorization
- Heavy use of real-world scenarios
- Requires data interpretation and decision-making
Key Insight for Preparation
You must think like a practitioner
Ask yourself:
Can you justify your decision using data?
Can you select the most appropriate intervention?
Can you apply legal guidelines correctly?
This exam measures your readiness to function effectively in real school environments.
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