Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure
MTEL is a suite of computer-based licensure tests required for prospective educators seeking Initial teaching licences in Massachusetts. Tests cover the Communication & Literacy Skills requirement plus subject-specific content knowledge and pedagogy.
Free Practice Tests & Papers
2 availableExam Details & Pattern
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a candidate seeking an Initial educator licence in Massachusetts through a state-approved educator preparation programme or an alternative licensure route
- The Communication & Literacy Skills (CLS) test is mandatory for all candidates seeking any Initial teaching licence, regardless of subject area
- Subject-area tests must correspond to the endorsement sought; candidates may sit tests before, during, or after completing their preparation programme
- Registration is conducted through the official MTEL website; no prior degree is required to register, though licensure itself requires degree completion
Marking Scheme & Pattern
Syllabus Overview
Communication & Literacy Skills — Reading
Literal and inferential comprehension, Analysis of rhetorical strategies and text structure, Vocabulary in context, Evaluation of arguments and evidence, Synthesis of information across passages
Communication & Literacy Skills — Writing
Grammar, mechanics, and usage, Sentence revision and editing, Summary writing of a provided passage, Written composition (argumentative/analytical short essay)
Mathematics (Subject-Area)
Number sense & operations, Patterns, relations & algebra, Geometry & measurement, Data analysis, statistics & probability, Trigonometry & pre-calculus (for higher-level tests), Calculus (MTELMathematics 09)
English (Subject-Area)
Literature (American, British, World), Literary analysis and criticism, Writing and rhetoric, Language acquisition and linguistics, Reading instruction pedagogy
Science & Technology/Engineering (Subject-Area)
Life science, Physical science, Earth & space science, Technology & engineering design, Safety in laboratory settings, Science inquiry & experimental design
History (Subject-Area)
U.S. history, World history, Historical thinking skills, Geography & civics, Economics fundamentals, Massachusetts curriculum frameworks alignment
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Communication & Literacy Skills (CLS) test mandatory for all Massachusetts teachers?
Yes, every candidate seeking an Initial educator licence in Massachusetts must pass both parts of the MTEL Communication & Literacy Skills test (Reading and Writing), regardless of the subject area they plan to teach.
What is the passing score for MTEL tests?
The passing scaled score for all MTEL tests is 240, on a scale of 100 to 300. Scores are reported as scaled scores, not raw percentages.
How many times can I retake an MTEL test?
There is no limit on the number of retakes. However, candidates must wait until the official score from their most recent attempt is released before registering for the same test again. A fee is charged for each attempt.