MTEL Portuguese (32)

It is a computer-based test with 55 multiple-choice and short-answer items and 4 open-response assignments, one of which requires an oral response. Speaking and listening items require a microphone and headset, and written assignments may require an on-screen character selector for special characters.

Total appointment time is 4 hours and 15 minutes. That includes 15 minutes for the CBT tutorial and nondisclosure agreement, leaving 4 hours of actual testing time. Plan your pacing around the testing time, not the full appointment window.

The qualifying score is 240. Score reports are released on scheduled dates, so check the score report release schedule for computer-based tests rather than expecting an immediate result at the end of your appointment.

The fee is $139. Review the fee and payment information page before registering, since payment is handled as part of registration and you must agree to the testing rules and policies when you register.

The test is offered at specific test centers in Massachusetts, by appointment during testing windows. Use the seat availability tool to find specific test dates and the testing windows available at a given test center location.

Build speaking and listening practice early, since one open-response assignment is oral and the test uses a microphone and headset. Then alternate timed writing in Portuguese with short-answer and multiple-choice practice, and rehearse the character selector so special characters do not slow you down.

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. Answer every item as though it counts, since you cannot identify the unscored ones.

Underusing the four hours, running out of time on the open-response assignments, and being unfamiliar with the microphone, headset, or character selector. Another frequent problem is preparing only by reading grammar, without producing extended spoken and written Portuguese under time pressure.

The test page links to tutorials and preparation materials available for this test, including practice with the Character Selector feature. The state MTEL site also points to test preparation materials and courses, online test registration, and information on alternative testing arrangements.

The Department accepts approved alternative assessments to the MTEL. If you are considering that route, check the alternative assessments information on the state MTEL site to confirm which assessments are approved before you register for Portuguese (32).