TESTING INFORMATION

Testing Information for Certification Candidates:  A passing score of the Basic Skills test is required for admission, but the following requirements apply to candidates enrolled in the teacher certification programs.

All candidates must pass the Basic Skills Test prior to acceptance into the program. The test includes reading, writing, and general math.  Illinois candidates take the Basic Skills Test (Field 300)

Wisconsin candidates must meet the same requirements that Illinois students meet.   In addition, they must also pass the Praxis II content test.  For more information about out-of-state requirements visit the Department of Public Instruction website. 

Prior to Student Teaching or Apprenticeship

Alternative Certification Program candidates must pass a subject matter test prior to the Apprenticeship Semester. All other candidates must pass the test prior to student teaching.

Bilingual Candidates in the Alternative Certification Program must also pass the Target Language Proficiency Exam (TLP) prior to their Apprenticeship semester.

Wisconsin students must pass the same tests as the Illinois students pass

If you earned a bachelor's degree at an English-speaking institution you must pass the TLP in the language that will appear on your endorsement. Spanish speakers take the Target Language Proficiency Exam in Spanish (Field 56). If you earned a bachelor's degree at a non-English speaking institution, you must take the English Language Proficiency Exam ( (Field 55).

Prior to Certification - APT Exam

Illinois candidates mus pass the APT Exam and special education candidates must pass General Curriculum Test 163 prior to earning a final license.

Registering for the Exams

Candidates for Illinois certification can register for their exams at www.icts.nesinc.com. Candidates for Wisconsin certification may also register for exams at www.icts.nesinc.com.

Quincy University provides an on line tutorial to study for the basic skills test.