MTEL Math Elementary (68)

It is a computer-based test with 100 multiple-choice questions and 2 open-response assignments. One or more assignments allow you to handwrite and scan your responses, and the tutorial video and scanning instructions are available during your test. Standard 4-function calculators are provided on-screen.

You have 4 hours of testing time within a 4 hour and 15 minute total appointment. The remaining 15 minutes covers the CBT tutorial and nondisclosure agreement. Plan your pacing around the multiple-choice section first so the open-response assignments are not rushed.

The qualifying score is 240. Score reports are released on scheduled dates, so check the score reporting schedule for your testing window rather than expecting an immediate result at the end of your appointment.

The fee is $139. Review the fee and payment information on the official MTEL site before registering, since payment and refund rules are governed by the program's registration and testing policies that you agree to when you register.

Appointments are available year-round, Monday through Saturday, excluding some holidays. Test centers are located in Massachusetts and nationwide, and you can check appointment availability and find the nearest test center through the official MTEL website.

No separate calculator is needed because a standard 4-function calculator is provided on-screen. Read the on-screen calculator instructions beforehand so you do not lose time learning the interface during the test. The provided calculator is basic, so practice mental and paper-based computation too.

Not necessarily. Tests may include questions that will not count toward candidates' scores. These are placed on the test to collect information about how well they perform under actual testing conditions, so a question that feels unusual may simply be a field-test item.

Start with a diagnostic set of mixed practice items to find weak areas, then work domain by domain with short timed sets. Add regular practice writing full open-response solutions, since partial credit depends on showing reasoning, and finish with at least one full-length timed simulation using the on-screen calculator.

Common problems are uneven content coverage, leaving open-response assignments until the end, and weak explanations that state an answer without justifying the steps. Arithmetic slips under time pressure and unfamiliarity with the on-screen calculator also cost points. Practicing written justification and pacing addresses most of these.

Retake and registration rules are set by the MTEL program and are covered in its registration, testing, and score reporting policies. Review those policies on the official site before scheduling again, and check whether any alternative assessment option applies to your situation.