MTEL Foundations of Reading (190)

It is a computer-based test, also available through online proctoring. It contains 100 multiple-choice questions and 2 open-response assignments. Written assignments may require an on-screen character selector for special characters, so practice that tool in the downloadable interactive tutorial before test day.

A computer-based appointment is 4 hours and 15 minutes total, including 15 minutes for the tutorial and nondisclosure agreement, leaving 4 hours of testing time. In an online-proctored appointment, the 4 hours and 30 minutes total includes 2 hours 30 minutes for multiple choice, a 15-minute optional break, and 1 hour 30 minutes for open response.

The qualifying score is 240. Score reports are released on published dates: computer-based candidates get a receipt of completion at the end of the appointment and later receive a score report, while online-proctored candidates do not receive a receipt when testing ends. Check the score report release dates for your format.

The fee is $139. The published fee reduction to $69.50 applies only to individual subtests of Communication and Literacy Skills (101 and 201), General Curriculum (178 and 278), and Vocational Technical Literacy Skills (191 and 291), not to Foundations of Reading. Review the fee and payment information page before registering.

Yes. Online proctoring is available for this test, and you may test remotely, including from home. You must review the system and testing environment requirements first. Online-proctored appointments are offered by appointment with an online proctor during one-week testing windows each month, unlike year-round test center appointments.

Computer-based testing is available by appointment year-round, Monday through Saturday, excluding some holidays, at test centers in Massachusetts and nationwide. Online proctoring is by appointment during monthly one-week testing windows. Check appointment availability early, since seats and windows vary.

Treat them as a separate skill from multiple choice. Practice writing clear, organized responses with explicit references to reading concepts and instructional reasoning, under the 1 hour 30 minutes allowed in online-proctored testing. Use the official preparation materials and tutorials, and rehearse the character selector if your responses may include special characters.

Underpreparing the written section is a frequent problem: candidates drill multiple-choice items but never practice composing full responses in timed conditions. Others lose time to the tutorial, break, or character-selector tool on test day. Build timed practice for both sections and know exactly how your appointment time is allocated.

Review the testing policies and the alternative testing arrangements information before registering, and request accommodations in advance. If you are approved for alternative arrangements and need to reschedule because of a site closure or other reason, you may reschedule; unless you need different or additional arrangements, a new request form and documentation are not required.

No. This is an independent study resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by MTEL, Pearson, or the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. Always verify fees, dates, formats, and policies on the official MTEL website before you register or make travel plans.