MTEL Exam & MTEL Certification Info
Who is the MTEL?
The Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL) is a series of exams that individuals must pass to obtain teacher licensure in the state of Massachusetts. The MTEL exams are administered by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
Where do you take their certification exams?
The MTEL exams are offered at Pearson VUE test centers throughout the United States and abroad. You can find the nearest test center by visiting the Pearson VUE website.
Steps to MTEL Certification
Step 1: Eligibility and Application
Before you can take an MTEL exam, you must first ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements. This typically involves having a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Once you have confirmed your eligibility, you can apply for the MTEL exams through the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education website.
Step 2: Scheduling the Exam
After your application has been approved, you will receive an authorization to test. You can then schedule your exam through the Pearson VUE website. It's important to schedule your exam as soon as possible to ensure that you get the date, time, and location that is most convenient for you.
Step 3: Taking the Exam
On the day of the exam, make sure to arrive at the test center early. Bring a valid, government-issued ID with you. The MTEL exams are computer-based, and you will receive your scores within a few weeks of taking the exam.
Location Information and Website
You can find more information about the MTEL exams, including test center locations and exam schedules, on the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education website (www.doe.mass.edu/mtel/) and the Pearson VUE website (home.pearsonvue.com/mtel).
MTEL Massachusetts Tests For Educator Licensure Exams
The MTEL Adult Basic Education certification test is a standardized examination administered by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. It is designed to evaluate the competencies and knowledge of aspiring teachers for adult basic education. The test covers a wide range of subjects such as English, mathematics, science, social studies, and workplace readiness. This assessment is a crucial requirement for those seeking to teach adult learners in Massachusetts. It ensures that educators are equipped with the necessary skills to effectively impart knowledge to adult students.
2 - Essay/
Constructed Response
English for Speakers of Other Languages - 25%
Mathematics - 25%
History and Social Science - 10%
Science - 10%
Application of Knowledge and Understanding - 15%
The MTEL Biology certification test is a comprehensive assessment for prospective educators in Massachusetts, aiming to teach biology at high school level. This exam evaluates the candidate's understanding of biology concepts, scientific inquiry skills, and the application of these concepts in real-world situations. It comprises multiple-choice and open-response items, covering topics like cell biology, genetics, evolution, ecology, and human anatomy. Passing the MTEL Biology certification test demonstrates a candidate's competency in biology and readiness to teach in Massachusetts public schools. Its successful completion is a prerequisite for obtaining a teaching license in the state.
Chemistry of Life and Cell Biology - 14%
Characteristics of Organisms - 14%
Human Anatomy and Physiology - 14%
Genetics, Evolution, and Biodiversity - 14%
Populations, Ecosystems, and the
Environment - 14%
Integration of Knowledge and Understanding - 20%
The MTEL Business certification test is a comprehensive examination for aspiring business educators in Massachusetts. It assesses understanding of key business concepts, including management, marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship. The test also evaluates candidates' knowledge in economics, business law, and international business. The exam includes multiple-choice questions and open-response assignments. This certification is a requirement for teaching business in Massachusetts public schools. It ensures that educators are competent and capable of teaching business subjects effectively to students.
Accounting and Quantitative Analysis - 16%
Economics - 11%
Marketing - 11%
Entrepreneurship and Business Technology - 11%
Integration of Knowledge and Understanding - 20%
The MTEL Chemistry certification test is a Massachusetts state examination administered to prospective educators to certify their competency in teaching chemistry. It comprises two sections: multiple-choice questions and open-response items. The test covers various topics like matter and atomic structures, chemical reactions, thermodynamics, biochemistry, and more. It ensures candidates have the necessary knowledge and skills to teach chemistry effectively in Massachusetts public schools. The test is designed in alignment with state and national standards for education. Passing the certification test is a crucial step in the teacher licensification process in Massachusetts.
Matter and Its Interactions: Chemical Structure and Reactions - 22%
Matter and Its Interactions: Substances, Mixtures, and Solutions - 12%
Motion and Stability: Forces and Interactions - 15%
Energy in Chemical Systems - 19%
The MTEL Communication and Literacy - Reading certification test is an assessment administered to prospective educators in Massachusetts. It evaluates their understanding and application of reading comprehension and critical analysis skills. Topics covered include main ideas, supporting details, inferences, and vocabulary in context. The test is designed in a multiple-choice format and is part of the Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL). Passing the MTEL Reading certification test is a requirement for those seeking to become licensed educators in Massachusetts, ensuring they possess the necessary literacy knowledge and skills to educate students effectively.
Main Idea and Supporting Details - 16.7%
Writer's Purpose and Point of View - 16.7%
Relationships Among Ideas - 16.7%
Critical Reasoning - 16.7%
Outlining, Summarizing, Graph Interpretation - 16.7%
The MTEL Communication and Literacy - Writing certification test is a Massachusetts state examination that assesses one's proficiency in written English. It is a requirement for educators in Massachusetts. The test evaluates knowledge of grammar, sentence structure, punctuation, and other writing fundamentals. It also tests the ability to write effectively for different purposes, such as exposition and argumentation. The exam measures both the technical aspects of writing and the ability to communicate ideas clearly and effectively. It is a critical step in ensuring that Massachusetts educators are capable of providing high-quality instruction in English.
2 - Essay/
Constructed Response
Sentence Construction, Grammar, Usage - 10%
Spelling, Capitalization, Punctuation - 10%
Revise Sentences Containing Error - 15%
Open-Response - 50%
The MTEL Communication and Literacy Skills certification test is a mandatory exam for educators in Massachusetts. It assesses proficiency in reading and writing, focusing on grammar, vocabulary, composition, and comprehension. The test is divided into two sub-tests: reading and writing, both of which must be passed to gain certification. The MTEL exam ensures that teachers have the necessary communication and literacy skills to effectively impart knowledge in their respective subjects, aligning with Massachusetts' high educational standards.
Meaning of Words and Phrases - 16.7%
Main Idea and Supporting Details - 16.7%
Writer's Purpose and Point of View - 16.7%
Relationships Among Ideas - 16.7%
Critical Reasoning - 16.7%
Outlining, Summarizing, Graph Interpretation - 16.7%
Writing
Establish and Maintain a Main Idea - 30%
Sentence Construction, Grammar, Usage - 20%
Spelling, Capitalization, Punctuation - 20%
Revise Sentences Containing Errors - 30%
The MTEL Early Childhood certification test is a licensure exam for aspiring early childhood educators in Massachusetts. It measures a candidate's understanding of child development, learning standards, and teaching methods for children from birth to eight years. The test includes multiple-choice questions and open-response assignments covering language, literacy, mathematics, science, social science, and integration of knowledge. The MTEL Early Childhood certification, regulated by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, ensures that educators are adequately prepared to teach this crucial age group.
1 - Essay/
Constructed Response
Knowledge of Children's Literature and the Writing Process - 15%
Core Knowledge in the Content Areas - 40%
Integration of Knowledge and Understanding - 20%
The MTEL Earth Science certification test is a comprehensive evaluation for educators seeking licensure to teach earth science in Massachusetts. It focuses on concepts including geology, meteorology, astronomy, and oceanography. Test-takers must demonstrate understanding of scientific inquiry and application, interdisciplinary science, and the history and nature of science. The exam includes both multiple-choice questions and open-response assignments. This test ensures teachers possess the necessary knowledge to effectively teach earth science to students. It is part of the Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL) program.
1 - Essay/
Constructed Response
Earth's Systems: Geosphere - 20%
Earth's Systems: Hydrosphere, Atmosphere, Weather, and Climate - 30%
Earth and Human Activity - 20%
Key Scientific Concepts (Open-Response) - 10%
Application of Science Practices (Open-Response) - 10%
The MTEL (Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure) English certification test is a state examination designed for prospective English teachers in Massachusetts. It evaluates candidates' knowledge and understanding of English language, literature, writing, speaking, and listening skills. The test includes multiple-choice questions and open-response assignments. Candidates are expected to demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of English grammar, vocabulary, syntax, and composition, as well as an understanding of literary analysis and genres. Achieving a passing score is a requirement for teaching English in Massachusetts public schools.
2 - Essay/
Constructed Response
Rhetoric and Composition - 17%
Reading Theory, Research, and Instruction - 12%
Integration of Knowledge and Understanding - 20%
The MTEL English as a Second Language certification test is a Massachusetts state examination for educators seeking to teach English to non-native speakers. It encompasses language and literacy development, culture, instruction planning, and assessment. The test evaluates a candidate's knowledge of English grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and language processing skills. It also assesses understanding of techniques to promote language acquisition and cultural competence. The certification is a requirement for ESL teachers in Massachusetts, demonstrating their ability to effectively educate students for whom English is not their first language.
Second-Language and Content Learning
The MTEL Foundations of Reading certification test is a comprehensive assessment for prospective teachers in Massachusetts. It evaluates their understanding of reading and writing development, language acquisition, and literacy instruction. The test consists of multiple-choice questions and open-response items, focusing on areas like phonics, vocabulary, comprehension, and assessment strategies. Successful completion is required for educators planning to teach elementary education, early childhood education, reading specialist, or moderate disabilities. The test ensures teachers have the foundational knowledge to help students develop strong literacy skills.
2 - Essay/
Constructed Response
Development of Reading Comprehension - 27%
Reading Assessment and Instruction - 18%
Integration of Knowledge and Understanding - 20%
The MTEL General Curriculum certification test is a Massachusetts state examination for educators. It measures their proficiency in two sub-areas: multi-subject, covering language arts, history, science, and mathematics; and mathematics, focusing on foundational math concepts. This exam is a requirement for educators intending to teach elementary education, special education, and certain other roles. It ensures educators have strong knowledge in various subjects to effectively instruct diverse learners. The test includes both multiple-choice and open-response questions, requiring a comprehensive understanding of the general curriculum.
Language Arts - 30%
History/Social Science - 60%
Subtest 2: Mathematics, Science, and Technology/Engineering
Mathematics - 48%
Science and Technology/Engineering - 42%
The MTEL General Curriculum Math certification test is a comprehensive examination for educators seeking to teach math subjects in Massachusetts. It assesses a candidate's understanding of mathematical concepts, problem-solving skills, and ability to apply mathematical principles. The test covers key areas such as number sense and operations, functions and algebra, geometry and measurement, and statistics and probability. Passing this test demonstrates the candidate's proficiency and readiness to teach mathematics in the Massachusetts public school system. It is a crucial requirement for earning a teaching license in the state.
Functions and Algebra - 26%
Geometry and Measurement - 20%
Statistics and Probability - 10%
Integration of Knowledge and Understanding - 2%
The MTEL General Science certification test is a Massachusetts state examination for aspiring science teachers. It measures a candidate's knowledge, understanding, and application of general science concepts, scientific inquiry, and methodology. The test includes areas such as life science, physical science, earth science, and technology/engineering. The exam is divided into multiple-choice questions and open-response items, requiring candidates to demonstrate abilities in both factual recall and analytical writing. Passing the MTEL General Science test is a requirement for teaching general science in Massachusetts public schools.
2 - Essay/
Constructed Response
Earth and Space Science - 20%
Life Science - 20%
Physical Science - 20%
Key Concepts in Earth and Space Science, Life Science, or Physical Science - 10%
Application of the Principles of Science Practices for Earth and Space Science, Life Science, or Physical Science - 10%
The MTEL Health Education certification test is a standardized exam assessing the knowledge and skills of aspiring health educators in Massachusetts. Administered by the Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL), this test covers important topics like human development, health education, and health instruction. Passing this test is a crucial step towards securing Massachusetts teacher licensure. It evaluates the candidate's understanding of health education principles, practices, and regulations, as well as their ability to design and implement effective health education programs. The test serves to ensure that certified educators are qualified to teach health education in Massachusetts schools.
Family and Emotional Health - 19%
Safety and Prevention - 23%
Resource Management and Community
Health - 15%
Integration of Knowledge and Understanding - 20%
The MTEL Health/Family and Consumer Sciences certification test is a rigorous examination for educators in Massachusetts wishing to teach these subjects. The test measures a candidate's knowledge and competencies in various areas including nutrition, wellness, personal and family finance, human development, and consumer rights. It also assesses understanding of educational theories, classroom management, and effective teaching strategies. Passing the MTEL Health/Family and Consumer Sciences test qualifies the candidate to teach these subjects in Massachusetts public schools.
Family and Emotional Health - 19%
Safety and Prevention - 23%
Resource Management and Community Health - 15%
The MTEL History certification test is a rigorous examination designed to evaluate the knowledge and skills of prospective history teachers in Massachusetts. It covers a broad range of historical periods, from ancient civilizations to contemporary events, and includes both U.S. and world history. The test consists of multiple-choice questions and open-response items that require deep understanding and analysis of historical events, trends, and concepts. Passing this test is a requirement for those who aspire to teach history in Massachusetts public schools, ensuring they meet high professional standards and are well-prepared to educate students.
World History
Geography, Government, and Economics
The MTEL Mathematics certification test assesses a candidate's knowledge and competency to teach mathematics at various grade levels in Massachusetts. It covers a broad range of math topics, including number sense, algebra, geometry, statistics, and calculus. Test takers must demonstrate their understanding of mathematical concepts, principles, and theories, as well as their ability to apply this knowledge in a pedagogical context. The test includes multiple-choice and open-response items. Successful completion of the exam is a requirement for mathematics teachers in the state.
2 - Essay/
Constructed Response
Patterns, Relations, and Algebra - 23%
Geometry and Measurement - 19%
Data Analysis, Statistics, and Probability - 10%
Trigonometry, Calculus, and Discrete
Mathematics - 16%
Integration of Knowledge and Understanding - 20%
The MTEL Mathematics (Elementary) certification test is designed for prospective teachers in Massachusetts who plan to specialize in elementary math education. The test assesses mathematical knowledge and teaching skills to ensure proficiency. It covers areas such as number sense, operations, algebra, geometry, measurement, data analysis, and probability. The test is divided into multiple-choice questions and open-response assignments. MTEL Mathematics (Elementary) measures the examinee’s understanding of mathematical concepts and their ability to apply and communicate mathematical principles effectively in a classroom setting.
1 - Essay/
Constructed Response
Patterns, Relations, and Algebra - 32%
Geometry and Measurement - 32%
Integration of Knowledge and Understanding - 2%
The MTEL Mathematics (Middle School) certification test is an examination designed for educators aspiring to teach mathematics in middle school in Massachusetts. This rigorous test is part of the Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL) program. It assesses the test-taker's understanding and application of mathematical concepts including number theory, geometry, algebra, statistics, and probability. It also tests knowledge of mathematical processes and relationships, as well as the ability to interpret and evaluate mathematical problems. The test is used to ensure that educators have the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively teach middle school mathematics.
2 - Essay/
Constructed Response
Patterns, Relations, and Algebra - 25%
Geometry and Measurement - 18%
Data Analysis, Statistics, and Probability - 12%
Trigonometry, Calculus, and Discrete
Mathematics - 10%
Integration of Knowledge and Understanding - 20%
The MTEL Mathematics/Science (Middle School) certification test is a comprehensive assessment for prospective middle school teachers in Massachusetts. This test, administered by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary & Secondary Education, evaluates candidates' understanding of key concepts in mathematics and science. Topics covered include algebra, geometry, number theory, data analysis, earth science, biology, physics, and chemistry. The exam comprises multiple-choice and open-response questions. A successful score demonstrates the candidate's readiness to effectively teach math and science in a middle school setting.
2 - Essay/
Constructed Response
Patterns, Relations, and Algebra - 12%
Geometry and Measurement - 9%
Data Analysis, Statistics, and Probability - 6%
Trigonometry, Calculus, and Discrete Mathematics - 5%
History, Philosophy, and Methodology of Science - 8%
Chemistry - 8%
Physics - 8%
Biology - 8%
Earth and Space Science - 8%
Open Response - 20%
Integration of Knowledge and Understanding of Mathematics
Integration of Knowledge and Understanding Science
The MTEL Middle School Humanities certification test is a comprehensive examination designed for aspiring middle school teachers in Massachusetts. It covers language arts, literature, history, geography, economics, and government. The test measures knowledge, pedagogical skills, and professional readiness to teach these subjects in middle school. It consists of multiple-choice questions and open-response items, requiring a deep understanding of middle school humanities curriculum, instructional strategies, and classroom management. Passing this test is a requirement for those seeking licensure as a middle school humanities teacher in Massachusetts.
Reading, Rhetoric, and Composition - 20%
History - 30%
Geography, Government, and Economics - 20%
The MTEL Physical Education certification test is a comprehensive examination for prospective physical education teachers in Massachusetts. It evaluates understanding of health, fitness, and physical education principles, including knowledge of human anatomy, kinesiology, and exercise physiology. The test also assesses the candidate's ability to plan and implement effective physical education programs. Passing this examination is a requirement for those wishing to teach physical education in Massachusetts public schools. The test is a mix of multiple-choice questions and open-response assignments.
2 - Essay/
Constructed Response
Movement Activities - 20%
Principles of Physical Fitness - 20%
The Physical Education Program - 20%
Integration of Knowledge and Understanding - 20%
The MTEL Physics certification test is a comprehensive examination for educators seeking to teach physics in Massachusetts. It covers fundamental physics concepts, including mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, optics, and modern physics. The test also evaluates understanding of scientific inquiry, methodology, and the interrelationships among science, technology, and society. It requires strong problem-solving skills, mathematical competency, and a solid grasp of the principles of physics. Passing this test is a key step towards becoming a certified physics teacher in Massachusetts.
Force and Motion
Energy, Momentum, and Heat Transfer
Electricity and Magnetism
Waves, Sound, and Light
Modern Physics
The MTEL Political Science/Political Philosophy certification test is a comprehensive examination designed for aspiring educators in Massachusetts. It assesses a candidate's understanding of key concepts in political science and philosophy. Topics include political theory, comparative politics, international relations, U.S. government, and the philosophical underpinnings of political thought. The test ensures candidates possess the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively teach these subjects at the secondary level. The exam includes both multiple-choice questions and open-response items, requiring candidates to demonstrate problem-solving abilities and critical thinking skills. Passing the test is a prerequisite for teaching certification in Massachusetts.
U.S. Government and Civics
Comparative Government and International Relations
History
Geography and Economics
The MTEL Reading Specialist certification test is a Massachusetts state exam for educators seeking to specialize in reading instruction. This comprehensive test assesses an educator's competence in foundational reading skills, reading assessment and instruction, and the role of a reading professional. It includes multiple-choice questions and open-response assignments. The test ensures that the educator possesses the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively teach reading and diagnose and address reading difficulties. Passing the MTEL Reading Specialist test is a requirement for those aiming to become a reading specialist in Massachusetts public schools.
Reading Assessment - 16%
Reading Instruction - 16%
Professional Knowledge and Roles of the
Reading Specialist - 16%
Integration of Knowledge and Understanding - 20%
The MTEL Spanish certification test is a Massachusetts-based examination designed to assess the proficiency and knowledge of aspiring Spanish teachers. It tests understanding of Spanish culture, literature, linguistics, pedagogy, and language skills, including listening, speaking, reading, and writing, through multiple-choice questions and open-response assignments. This test is a requirement for educators seeking to teach Spanish in the Massachusetts public school system, ensuring they have the necessary skills to effectively educate students in this second language. Passing the MTEL Spanish test is a crucial step towards becoming a certified Spanish teacher in Massachusetts.
Reading Comprehension
Linguistics and Language Structures
Cultural Perspectives, Comparisons, and Connections
The MTEL Speech certification test is a comprehensive examination required for educators intending to teach speech communication in Massachusetts. It evaluates a candidate's understanding of speech and communication theories, public speaking, interpersonal communication, and media literacy. Besides, it assesses the knowledge of analyzing and evaluating speech, and understanding speech-related issues in diverse populations. The test includes multiple-choice questions and open-response items. The MTEL Speech test ensures that potential teachers meet the state's high educational standards and have the necessary skills to foster students' communication skills.
Public Speaking - 45%
The MTEL Technology/Engineering certification test is a Massachusetts state assessment for educators seeking to teach technology and engineering at middle and high school levels. The test evaluates candidates' knowledge and understanding in technology, engineering design, and technological systems. It includes multiple-choice and open-response questions. Topics covered include construction technologies, power and energy technologies, information and communication technologies, and transportation technologies. Passing the MTEL Technology/Engineering test is a requirement for technology and engineering educators in Massachusetts.
Energy and Power Systems - 15%
Construction Technologies - 13%
Manufacturing Technologies - 13%
Communication Technologies - 13%
Transportation Technologies - 10%
The MTEL Visual Arts certification test is designed to assess the proficiency and knowledge of prospective visual arts teachers in Massachusetts. This exam covers a variety of topics including art history, art criticism, aesthetics, and the production of art. Candidates are tested on their understanding of different art mediums, techniques, and the cultural and historical contexts of art. The test also evaluates their ability to teach art concepts effectively. Passing this test is a requirement for those wishing to teach visual arts in Massachusetts public schools.
2 - Essay/
Constructed Response
Visual Art in Context - 20%
Interpretation, Analysis, and Evaluation of Art - 20%
Visual Art and Other Disciplines - 10%
Integration of Knowledge and Understanding (open response) - 20%
The MTEL Vocational Technical Literacy Skills Test is a certification exam for aspiring vocational-technical educators in Massachusetts. This computer-based test assesses comprehension of vocational technical reading materials, application of literacy skills in a vocational-technical context, and proficiency in writing. The test evaluates a candidate's ability to effectively communicate and apply literacy skills within a vocational-technical setting. It is part of the Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL) program, designed to ensure that educators have the necessary knowledge and skills to teach in the state's public schools.
2 - Essay/
Constructed Response
Word Meaning - 15%
Main Idea and Detail - 15%
Writer's Purpose - 15%
Idea Relationships - 15%
Critical Reasoning - 15%
Graphs, Tables, and Charts - 25%
WRITING SUBTEST
Unity and Focus - 11%
Verbs and Nouns - 11%
Pronouns and Modifiers - 11%
Sentence Structure and Punctuation - 11%
Capitalization and Spelling - 11%
Open-Response - 45%
Composition Exercise
Summary Exercise