Test Tips and Support

The MTEL is widely considered one of the more difficult teacher licensure tests to pass. It is critical that you adequately prepare/study so that you pass the first time.

Before the Test

• Talk to staff who have already passed and learn their tips and tricks!

• Sign up at least six weeks in advance to give you sufficient time to study--you don't want to have to pay to take the test more than once.

• Plan ahead and take only one test per day.

• Take a practice test then focus your studying in the areas where you struggled: research the content and search for tips and guidance online.

• Use the online practice test answers; pay attention to the explanations in the answer key.

• If you are taking more than one MTEL, take all of the practice tests upfront and determine the order by which you will take the tests by how you do (i.e. sign up for the tests that are easier for you first to allow more time for study for the rest).

• If you feel you need additional support, sign up for an MTEL study class or webinar before your test date. GohAcademy is a good resource for one to two day courses.

• Read Wikipedia pages on topics to bolster content knowledge.

• Take the test seriously--study!!

During the Test

• When taking an MTEL, answer the essay questions first.

• Answer writing questions from the perspective of the dominant education schools of thought.

Here are some general resources that are helpful for any MTEL:

• Official online MTEL Practice Tests on the Pearson MTEL website

• Lesley University's MTEL Study Tips and Resources and for-cost support workshops

• Wheelock professor Debra Korkovitz's MTEL website, which offers practice MTEL questions and explanations

• Prep-Forward MTEL Courses-They offer for-cost MTEL courses as well as free general curriculum math MTEL websinar

• UMASS MTEL workshops: information and registration

• GohAcademy offers MTEL course workshops (currently remote) to prepare for your tests.

• Khan Academy online courses, to (re)learn college-level content

• List of all prep courses in MA

If you have specific MTEL questions that are not answered on this site, please email certification@upeducationnetwork.org. If we cannot answer your questions, we will put you in touch with a certified staff member who is willing to provide support, advice, and, in some cases, tutoring.

Please note: UP is not able to reimburse for MTELs.