Foundations of Reading Passing Score & Exam Info
Complete exam information for the NES 890 including passing score requirements, exam format, time limits, and registration details.
Foundations of Reading (890): timing and scores
Allow 150 minutes for 100 multiple-choice questions (90 seconds each on average), then 90 minutes for both written assignments, including planning and review. The appointment also includes a 15-minute tutorial and an optional 15-minute break, for 4 hours 30 minutes total.
Passing requirements depend on your licensing state. For example, Connecticut lists a scaled passing score of 240. Check your state's current requirement when registering. Pearson lists a $139 fee; confirm the current fee at registration.
Written responses are approximately 150-300 words each. The rubric evaluates purpose, subject matter knowledge, support, and rationale. The published rubric does not specify automatic point deductions or numeric score caps by word count.
Checked October 3, 2026. Sources: Pearson test information, open-response rubric, and registration and state information.
Passing score varies by state
Varies by state. Confirm the scaled passing score required by your licensing state.
The 85% target is a TeacherPreps practice goal. Practice percentages and AI feedback do not convert to an official scaled score or predict a passing result.
Exam Overview
100 + 2
Multiple-choice + written
240
Minutes
5
Content Areas