NYC Regents Exams Retakes: Everything You Need to Know

The New York State Regents Exams are one of the most critical milestones in a student’s academic journey. Whether you're a student preparing to take your first exam or a parent trying to support your child through the process, understanding the structure, requirements, and preparation strategies for the Regents Exams can make all the difference. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know for the 2025 Regents Exams—including why now is the best time to start preparing.

What Are the Regents Exams?

The Regents Exams are standardized tests administered by the New York State Education Department (NYSED) to assess high school students' proficiency in core academic subjects. They are a graduation requirement for most public school students in New York State.

There are currently 10 Regents Exams:

• English Language Arts (ELA)
• Mathematics: Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry
• Science: Living Environment, Physical Setting - Earth Science, Chemistry, Physics
• Social Studies: Global History & Geography II, U.S. History & Government
• Students may also take exams in World Languages or Career and Technical Education (CTE) areas for diploma pathway options.

Regents Exams Dates – 2025 Schedule

The Regents Exams are offered in January, June, and August of each year. Below you’ll find the full exam schedule for 2025, consolidated by date.

January 2025

• Tuesday, January 21, 2025: 9:15 am – English Language Arts | 1:15 pm – Physical Setting/Earth Science, Physical Setting/Chemistry
• Wednesday, January 22, 2025: 9:15 am – Geometry, U.S. History & Government | 1:15 pm – Algebra I, Physical Setting/Physics
• Thursday, January 23, 2025: 9:15 am – Global History & Geography II | 1:15 pm – Algebra II
• Friday, January 24, 2025: 9:15 am – Living Environment

June 2025

• Wednesday, June 11, 2025: 9:15 am – Geometry
• Tuesday, June 17, 2025: 9:15 am – English Language Arts | 1:15 pm – Living Environment
• Wednesday, June 18, 2025: 9:15 am – Global History & Geography II | 1:15 pm – Algebra I
• Friday, June 20, 2025: 9:15 am – U.S. History & Government | 1:15 pm – Physical Setting/Earth Science
• Tuesday, June 24, 2025: 9:15 am – Physical Setting/Chemistry | 1:15 pm – Physical Setting/Physics
• Wednesday, June 25, 2025: 9:15 am – Algebra II

August 2025

• Tuesday, August 19, 2025: 8:30 am – Algebra I, English Language Arts | 12:30 pm – Global History & Geography II, Algebra II
• Wednesday, August 20, 2025: 8:30 am – U.S. History & Government, Physical Setting/Earth Science, Physical Setting/Chemistry | 12:30 pm – Geometry, Living Environment

Students should always verify exact times and locations with their school.

Graduation Requirements

• Earn 22 credits (or 44 credits in NYC)
• Pass five Regents Exams: one in English, one in math, one in science, one in social studies, and one pathway exam

Students can also pursue advanced designations:

• Advanced Regents Diploma (requires additional math and science exams)
• Regents Diploma with Honors (average score of 90+ on required exams)

Scoring and Appeals

Regents Exams are scored on a 0–100 scale, with a passing score typically set at 65. However, students with documented needs or specific circumstances may appeal a score between 60–64 (or lower for certain populations like English Language Learners or students with disabilities).

Learn more about appeals and exceptions at the Advocates for Children of NY website.

How to Prepare for the Regents Exams

1. Start During Summer Break: Revisit past lessons, review course textbooks, take advantage of tutoring or prep programs like Now Test Prep, and take full-length practice tests from the official NYSED Regents Archive.
2. Use Past Exams: Practice with real test questions, review answer keys, and become familiar with the test structure.
3. Study Strategically: Identify weak areas, break sessions into manageable chunks (30-45 minutes), and use active recall techniques like flashcards and practice essays.
4. Take Practice Tests: Simulate the test environment by taking full-length exams under timed conditions.
5. Get Professional Help: Consider one-on-one tutoring tailored to learning style.

How Parents Can Support

• Create a Supportive Study Environment: Help your child set up a quiet, distraction-free study area
• Encourage Consistency: Build a daily or weekly study routine
• Ask Active Questions: Use techniques like Elaborative Interrogation—ask "Why do you think this is true?" or "Can you explain that back to me?"
• Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge progress to keep morale high
• Partner with Experts: Get outside help if needed; Now Test Prep can guide students through every step

Final Thoughts

The Regents Exams are not just another set of standardized tests—they’re a crucial stepping stone toward graduation and college. With the right strategies, support system, and study habits, any student can conquer them.

Start now. Summer is the best time to prep smartly and build confidence before the school year kicks in. And remember, you're not alone. Reach out to Now Test Prep for customized support every step of the way.

Visit nysedregents.org to access official past exams.