MTEL General Curriculum
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Cheat sheet
Keep the key ideas within reach.
ExploreKey terms
Get comfortable with the vocabulary.
ExploreStudy plan
Give each week a clear focus.
ExploreCommon mistakes
Understand the traps and how to avoid them.
ExploreCase studies
Put your knowledge to work in context.
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Prepare for the day ahead.
ExploreAbout this exam
The MTEL General Curriculum tests are the subject-matter assessments used in Massachusetts for educator licensure in the elementary/general curriculum area, listed by Pearson as General Curriculum (178/278). Candidates typically take them to demonstrate the broad knowledge expected of teachers responsible for multiple subjects in a general classroom. The test is offered in two subtests, and Pearson lists MTEL-Flex alternatives aligned to the same content: MTEL-Flex General Curriculum Subtest 1: Language Arts and History/Social Science (918) and MTEL-Flex General Curriculum Subtest 2: Mathematics, Science, and Technology/Engineering (919). The subtest titles indicate the content areas covered: Language Arts; History/Social Science; Mathematics; Science; and Technology/Engineering. Pearson reports that the fee for individual subtests of General Curriculum (178 & 278) was reduced to $69.50 effective 7/23/24, and that General Curriculum practice tests became available (announced 1/29/24). Preparation should start from the official test information and preparation pages on the MTEL website, where you can confirm test dates, sites, and preparation materials; then use the practice tests to identify weak content areas and build a study plan across all five domains. Always verify current dates, fees, and policies on the official MTEL site before registering.
What you'll study
About MTEL General Curriculum preparation
What is the MTEL General Curriculum test?
It is the Massachusetts subject-matter test listed by Pearson as General Curriculum (178/278). Its two subtests map to Language Arts and History/Social Science on one side and Mathematics, Science, and Technology/Engineering on the other, matching the titles of the MTEL-Flex General Curriculum subtests 918 and 919.
How much does it cost?
Pearson states that effective 7/23/24 the fee for individual subtests for General Curriculum (178 & 278) was reduced to $69.50. Confirm the current total at registration, since you may register for subtests separately and fees can change.
What is the test format?
Pearson lists the General Curriculum under subject matter tests and provides practice tests for it. The official test information page is the place to confirm the current format, number of questions, and time limits before you register; do not rely on secondhand descriptions.
What content does it cover?
The subtest titles indicate the domains: Language Arts, History/Social Science, Mathematics, Science, and Technology/Engineering. Plan study time across all five rather than only your strongest area, because the score depends on balanced performance across the subtests.
How should I prepare?
Start with the official preparation materials and the General Curriculum practice tests, which Pearson announced as available on 1/29/24. Take a practice test early, review every missed item by content domain, then cycle back through weak domains with targeted review before a second practice attempt.
What is MTEL-Flex, and is it an option for me?
Pearson describes MTEL-Flex as an option for candidates whose score on select MTEL fields is very close to passing; eligible candidates may submit an MTEL-Flex assessment instead of retaking the test. General Curriculum candidates should check the 918 and 919 pages and confirm eligibility criteria before assuming they qualify.
Can I take the subtests separately?
Pearson prices individual subtests separately for General Curriculum (178 & 278), which indicates subtest-level registration. Check the test information page for current scheduling options and whether subtests can be taken on different dates.
What are common reasons candidates fall short?
The most frequent pattern is uneven preparation: strong language arts or mathematics skills masking weak science or history content. Another is skipping practice tests, so timing and item style are unfamiliar on test day. Use practice results by domain to direct review, and confirm all policies on the official MTEL site.