Minnesota Teacher Licensure Exams (MTLE)
All students must register for and take the Minnesota Teacher Licensure Examination (MTLE) as soon as possible so that they are able to register for 300- and 400-level education courses. MTLE registration materials are available in the Office of Clinical Experiences office (EB-B120) and on their website: http://stcloudstate.edu/mtle/default.asp
The MTLE website (www.mtle.nesinc.com) has general preparation information for the Basic Skills tests. The site provides tutorials and practice questions for each subject area. In addition, they provide a practice exam to become familiar with the operations of computer-based testing. Sample tests and enhanced study guides are available (for a fee) at this website that will help prepare you for the Basic Skills tests. Additional material is available that represents the Basic Skills requirements in other states. These materials can be helpful in preparing for your exams, but should be reviewed carefully.
Free online tutoring program: www.teachrite.com
California Basic Education Skills Test (CBEST): www.cbest.nesinc.com/CA_viewPT_PDF_opener.asp
Georgia Assessments for the Certification of Educators (GACE): www.gace.nesinc.com/GA_preparationmaterials.asp
Michigan State Teachers Certification Exam (MTTC): www.mttc.nesinc.com/PDFs/MI_field096_SG.pdf
Certification Examinations for Oklahama Educators (CEOE): www.ceoe.nesinc.com/PDFs/OGET_074_SG.pdf
Another website that provides helpful material for preparing for the Elementary Pedagogy test and the Special Education Core Skills test: www.xamonline.com
What are the MTLE tests?
All candidates applying for first-time Minnesota teaching licensure must complete:
Basic Skills
The Basic Skills examination includes three subtests: Reading, Writing and Mathematics. Examinees may take one, two or all three subtests at one test appointment. However, it is advisable to take one at a time. It is also advisable to access the sample questions and practice tests, which are available at the MTLE website and in the MTLE/Praxis Center in the Education Building (EB-B113-C).
All Basic Skills examinations are computer based tests.
| Reading | Writing | Mathematics | |
Subtest Format |
Approximately 48 multiple choice questions |
Approximately 33 multiple choice questions and two written assignments |
Approximately 50 multiple choice questions |
Time Allowed |
Up to 1 hour |
Up to 1 hour and 30 minutes |
Up to 1 hour and 15 minutes |
| Reference Materials Available During Subtest | None | Written assignment directions | Formulas/Constants page |
| Cost | $25.00* | $25.00* | $25.00* |
*There is also an annual registration fee of $50.00, paid once per program year, September 1 - August 31, regardless of the number of tests taken during that year.
2. Pedagogy
All initial licenses require passing a pedagogy test, aligned to the license field sought. Note: Each pedagogy test consists of two subtests. SPED licensure candidates can choose to take either the Elementary OR Secondary Pedagogy tests. Typically, we recommend the Elementary Pedagogy tests.
Elementary 1 60 minutes $35
Elementary 2 60 minutes $35
Secondary 1 60 minutes $35
Secondary 2 60 minutes $35
3. Special Education Core Skills (NOT licensure-specific tests, just Core Skills)
First-time special education licensure candidates must pass a test of content knowledge, which consists of two subtests:
Special Education Core Skills 1 60 minutes $35
Special Education Core Skills 2 60 minutes $35
