✅ Subject Area Exam (SAE) - REQUIRED

Upfront Cost: $150, Reimbursed by TAP

As a TAP program requirement, you must pass the Subject Area Exam (SAE) to start teaching in the public school district. TAP Candidates are expected to following the TAP testing policy outlined below. Failure to do so will jeopardize your invitation to the TAP summer training and the accompanying stipend.

For classes starting September through January, candidates are required to attempt at least 2 SAEs or receive a passing score prior to the the summer training.
For classes starting in February and March, candidates are required at least 1 SAE or eceive a passing score prior to the the summer training.

Candidates can attempt the SAE every 30 days based on FL testing policy.

*If you have a "teachable degree," you can apply for certification with the State of Florida. If temporarily certified through your exam, you will have 5 years to pass the SAE after starting classroom teaching.

✅ General Knowledge Test (GKT) - REQUIRED after passing SAE

Upfront Cost: $130, Reimbursed by TAP

All college graduates have FIVE YEARS to take and pass the General Knowledge Test (GKT) once they begin classroom teaching. To ensure you are able to be hired in the fall, TAP prioritizes the Subject Area Exam (SAE) over the GKT. For candidates who pass the SAE before the school year starts, TAP will assist with studying and covering the cost of the GKT for qualifying candidates. Note: The GKT is waived if you have a master's degree.

❌ Professional Education Test - NOT REQUIRED, NOT SUPPORTED

TAP does not cover the cost of the Professional Education Test. This exam is for educators pursing their professional certification.

By when do I need to take my exam?

Review TAP's Testing Date Deadlines to see when you are required to take your exams.

TAP Testing Date Deadlines | TAP

Unsure which subject to choose? Check out our FAQs for some guidance.

Register for your Subject Area Exam

Step-by-Step Guide

You can also download our step-by-step guide.

SAE Test Registration Guide

Step-by-Step Video

Check out our step-by-step video on how to register for the SAE.

Registering for SAE

Share your test date and receipt with TAP

Required to be eligible for a reimbursement.

If we do not have this before you take your exam, you may not be eligible for reimbursement.

Share your test results (unofficial scores) with TAP

Please wait 5-10 minutes between each submission

This form will trigger your reimbursement.

Sample Unofficial Score Report

General Knowledge Test (GKT) Exemption Option

A variety of tests can be used to replace the GKT, including the SAT and ACT. This has to be taken within 10 years and after March 1, 2016. You can find more information on this here.

FAQs

Which subject should I choose?

One of the benefits of TAP is that you get to choose what you teach! While this flexibility is exciting for some, others may prefer additional guidance. We’re here to support you. Check out our resources below to help you make an informed decision.

Check to see if you have a "teachable major"

For certain degrees, you can have what is known as a “Teachable Major.” That is when your degree automatically qualifies you to teach a certain subject area and allows you to delay passing the Subject Area Exam for 5 years.

Check to see if you have a teachable major here.

Check the list of highest need subject areas and other subject areas.

You’ll have an easier time securing a job in high-need subjects and schools, so consider this carefully when choosing your certification area. Niche certifications like Business K-12 and Computer Science K-12 may have few or no positions available, and you may need to travel a significant distance once hired.

Consider which test are you most likely to pass

While we know that being a great teacher is about more than passing a test, certification is an important barrier to entry that deserves your attention. Be sure to research the exam required for your chosen subject areas before making a commitment.

- Navigate to the FTCE website, choose the subject area you are considering, and review the topics (called competencies) covered on the exam(s). Note the Elementary Exam has 4 parts to the one exam.
- Consider your expertise, including your work experience and college degree area to help guide you.

Resources

Indeed Article: What Grade Should You Teach? (With Tips To Help You Decide)

Study.com Article: The Biggest Differences Between Teaching Elementary & Middle School

TAP cannot confirm the salary amounts mentioned in the articles above.

What type of certification will I get through TAP?

There are two types of certifications in the state of Florida. TAP helps you obtain a Temporary Certificate, which is valid for five school years and is non-renewable. TAP does not support obtaining the Professional Certificate. However, through our mentorship program, TAP connects candidates with other organizations that assist in acquiring the Professional Certificate.

In how many subjects will TAP help me certify?

With the exception of those pursuing an Exceptional Student Education (ESE) certificate in addition to their core subject, TAP will cover the cost of up to 4 attempts for passing one subject area exam. You are welcome to switch subject areas if you are struggling but TAP will not cover the cost for passing multiple subject area exams.

How do I qualify for test reimbursements?

TAP supports our candidates financially by reimbursing exam costs. We generally do not prepay for exams. To qualify for reimbursement, candidates must meet one of the following criteria:

First Exam:

Complete a diagnostic from 240 Tutoring (or another approved tool) AND one of the following:

Pass your exam
Complete a high-priority 240 Tutoring module.
Complete 32 hours of study.
Finish 50% of the modules.

Attempts 2-4 (Do one of the following):

Pass your exam.
Achieve 90-100% completion of 240 Tutoring modules before attempting the exam.
Obtain a score of 75% or higher on at least one practice exam.
Show an increase of at least 10 points in your score or achieve a passing score.

After four exam attempts, TAP will no longer reimburse exam costs. However, you will still be eligible to continue using our provided study tools as long as you provide evidence of consistent use.

When can I expect my reimbursement?

After submitting your unofficial scores, TAP staff will verify that you've met all requirements for reimbursement.

You’ll then be added to our reimbursement list, which is processed every pay cycle (every 2 weeks).

Reimbursement instructions will be sent to the email address we have on file.

If there is any issue with your reimbursement or if you have questions, please email Angie at angelamorello@teacheraccelerator.org.

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