TESTING INFORMATION

Testing Information for Certification Candidates:  There are no tests required for admission, but the following requirements apply to candidates enrolled in the teacher certification programs.

Prior to the Second Semester

All candidates must pass the Basic Skills Test prior to enrolling in their second semester. The test includes reading, writing, and general math.  Illinois candidates take the Basic Skills Test (Field 96), and Wisconsin candidates take the PRAXIS I exam.

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.

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 Only)

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 take the Illinois exams or register for the PRAXIS exams at www.ets.org.

NTEC offers test prep courses. Register for a session near you »