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Exam Overview
The MTTC English as a Second Language (126) Exam is a crucial step for individuals seeking certification to teach English learners (ELs) in Michigan public schools. This exam ensures that future educators possess the content knowledge, instructional strategies, and cultural awareness required to support linguistically diverse students in achieving academic success.
Why This Exam Matters
- Validates your readiness to teach ESL in K–12 settings
- Ensures compliance with Michigan teacher certification standards
- Demonstrates your understanding of second language acquisition, assessment, and inclusive instructional practices
- Supports equitable education for multilingual learners
- Enhances your professional qualifications and employment opportunities
Exam Pattern at a Glance
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Test Name | MTTC English as a Second Language (126) |
| Endorsement | English as a Second Language (NS), grades K–12 |
| Administered By | Pearson, for the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) |
| Test Format | Computer-based test (CBT) |
| Number of Questions | 100 multiple-choice questions, four answer choices each |
| Testing Time | 2 hours 30 minutes |
| Total Appointment | 2 hours 45 minutes, including a 15-minute tutorial and nondisclosure agreement |
| Score Range | 100–300 (scaled) |
| Passing Score | 220 |
| Availability | Year-round by appointment, Monday through Saturday (excluding some holidays) |
| Test Sites | Pearson test centers in Michigan and nationwide |
| Score Reports | Released within 6 weeks of testing |
| Fee | $129 |
Content Areas Assessed
The test framework has six subareas and 20 objectives. Subarea IV, which covers teaching listening, speaking, reading, writing and grade-level content, carries the most weight:
| Subarea | Objectives | Share of Test | About |
|---|---|---|---|
| I. Language, Linguistics, and Comparisons | 001–003 | 15% | 15 questions |
| II. Culture | 004–006 | 15% | 15 questions |
| III. Second Language Acquisition and Instructional Practices | 007–009 | 15% | 15 questions |
| IV. Application of Standards-Based Curriculum and Instruction | 010–014 | 25% | 25 questions |
| V. Assessment | 015–017 | 15% | 15 questions |
| VI. Professionalism | 018–020 | 15% | 15 questions |
Each domain evaluates your understanding of English learners’ academic and linguistic needs, instructional best practices, legal foundations, and culturally responsive teaching.
Skills Tested
- Language systems and contrastive analysis
- Theories of second language acquisition
- Academic language development
- Differentiated instruction and scaffolding
- Effective use of WIDA standards
- Fair assessment practices
- Ethical responsibilities and collaboration with stakeholders
Who Should Take This Exam?
- Aspiring ESL teachers seeking Michigan teacher certification
- Current educators adding an ESL endorsement
- Education majors in teacher preparation programs
- Out-of-state teachers transferring licensure to Michigan
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