Foundations of Reading Test
Foundations of Reading Test
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The Foundations of Reading Test is a key assessment designed to ensure that future educators have a strong understanding of how children learn to read. It measures essential knowledge in phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary development, and comprehension—core components that support effective literacy instruction in the classroom. The exam not only assesses what candidates know, but also how they apply that knowledge through analyzing student work, identifying instructional needs, and selecting appropriate interventions. Success on the Foundations of Reading Test demonstrates that a teacher candidate is prepared to support diverse learners as they develop the critical reading skills needed for academic success.
Important Update: Wisconsin has changed to the 890 version of the FoRT as of August 26, 2025. This is the nationwide test. The content will not be much different, but there is a benefit to taking this version, as after three unsuccessful attempts, the scholar will not need to pay for subsequent attempts. Registration opens on July 15, 2025.
Registering for the Test
Registering for the Test
If you have questions about how to register for your assessment, please contact NES personnel directly using the NES Contact Us page.
Are you required to take it?
Are you required to take it?
Who Takes It?
As of January 31, 2014,
all initial educator applicants for early childhood, elementary/regular education, special education, reading teacher, and reading specialist must pass the Wisconsin Foundations of Reading Test.
all add-on educator scholars in our program who have not had to pass in another license area.
In short, assume you have to take it unless your program is listed in the "Exceptions (Who Doesn't Take It)" section.
Exceptions (Who Doesn't Take It)
Add-on Scholars who would have needed to take the FoRT in their original license area.
1400 - 4-12 Mathematics
1365 - K-12 ESL
1395 - K-12 Spanish
2300 - English Language Arts
2700 - Social Studies
2600 - Science
Test Preparation
Test Preparation
General Information
General Information
Most test websites offer a combination of free and paid resources that will help you study for your test. Simply go to the test registration page and you will see options offered by their website. Click the button below to learn more about general test prep
240tutoring
240tutoring
We tend to recommend 240tutoring, which gives our scholars a special rate for registering through us. We do not profit from your registration for the service.
To learn more about 240tutoring, click the button below.
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