Overview
The MTEL program is a series of pass/fail tests required by the state of Massachusetts and designed to measure readiness for educator licensure. The program includes tests of communication and literacy skills as well as tests of subject matter knowledge. The test score ranges from 0-300, with a score of 240 required to pass. Scores of 240 and higher are indicated on the score report as a P, or "Met Qualifying Score." Scores below 240 are
reported numerically.
Required MTELs
The Communication and Literacy Skills MTEL has a reading subtest and a writing subtest and is required for all educator licenses (teachers, reading specialists, support personnel and administrators). It is offered year round as a computer-based test. Students can opt to take both subtests in the same test administration (4 hours), or each subtest can be taken in a separate 4-hour administration.
In addition, subject matter tests are required for all teaching and specialist teaching subject areas. The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (ESE) website contains the list of required MTEL exams for each licensure area, as does Lesley's MTEL Student Guide pp. 2 & 3.
The following tests are offered only in a computer-based format: Communication & Literacy Skills (01); Early Childhood (02); English (07); Foundations of Reading (90); General Curriculum (03); and History (06). Computer-based tests are available year round, by appiontment Monday-Saturday (excluding some holidays).
Preparing for the MTELs - Support from Lesley
- Lesley's MTEL Student Guide is a 10-page booklet given to students and available online with planning suggestions, MTEL registration information, links to internet resources
- MTEL Exams and Lesley University – new slide show presentation that introduces candidates to the MTEL process and preparation.
- Lesley's MTEL Workshops are usually offered 4 times a year (Sept/Oct, Jan/Feb, Mar/Apr, June) for Communication & Literacy Skills, Early Childhood, General Curriculum Multi Subject, Foundations of Reading
- An 18 hour General Curriculum Math workshop and an intensive 36 hour General Curriculum Math course are usually offered 3 times/year
- Study Tips - describes and links specific study resources for different MTELs
- Lesley's Center for Academic Achievement offers free tutoring to Lesley students for the Communication & Literacy Skills MTEL
- Disabilities Services Office can assist candidates who have or think they may need diagnostic testing or accommodations
- The Certification/Educator Licensure Office, 617.349.8427, has a limited list of private tutors that students can hire for a fee
- Lesley's Sherrill Library has MTEL guides and sample test books available for borrowing
More MTEL Information