Florida Teacher Certification Exam

To become a public school teacher in Florida, you must pass the Florida Teacher Certification Examination (FTCE). The FTCE consists of a General Knowledge Test (GK), a Professional Education Test (PEd), and several different Subject Area Examinations (SAE). Once you apply for certification with the Bureau of Educator Certification, which can be done online at www.fl.nesinc.com, you will receive an “Official Statement of Status of Eligibility.” Along with your eligibility status, this statement will also specify what tests you need to take to become certified, depending on which area of public education you express interest in pursuing.

The General Knowledge Test (GK) is required for all applicants and consists of four sections. During the first section, test-takers have 50 minutes to compose a typed essay. You will have a few topics from which to choose, but these choices will not be revealed until the test begins. There is no minimum length requirement for the essay, but you should write as well-organized and thorough an essay as possible during the given time limit.

If you have ever taken a standardized test, the other sections of the GK will likely look familiar. The second portion of the GK is a 40-minute English Language Skills (ELS) test consisting of approximately 40 questions that test applicants English grammar skills. The third section is a 40-minute Reading section that consists of approximately 40 questions based on various brief passages. These sections will likely look similar to those on the SAT or ACT exam. The final section of the GK is a 100-minute-long mathematics evaluation. This section tests the basic math skills expected of a tenth-grade high school student. Calculators are provided at the test site, and there is no way to waive or exempt any portion of the GK.

Generally, one cannot teach in the United States without a bachelor’s degree (although there a few exceptions). Depending on the type of degree you have, the Professional Education Test (PEd) may be easy or difficult for you. This particular exam tests pedagogical and educational knowledge, consists of about 120 questions, and lasts 2.5 hours. Before taking the test, you may need to educate yourself on educational theory and practice using study guides or other preparatory materials.

The Subject Area Examinations (SAE) test the knowledge specific to your area of expertise (test times vary). If you desire to teach drama to middle or high school students, you will take the Drama 6-12 SAE, for example. Not all testing locations offer every test, but a complete list of available testing sites and test availability can be found at www.fl.nesinc.com. You can also find in-depth study guides and practice tests at this website.