MTEL Reading Specialist (62)

It is offered as a computer-based test and as an online-proctored test. Both contain 100 multiple-choice questions and 2 open-response assignments. The content is the same; only the appointment structure and timing differ, so choose your delivery mode before you build a practice schedule.

A computer-based appointment is 4 hours and 15 minutes total: 15 minutes for the tutorial and nondisclosure agreement, then 4 hours of testing time. Online proctoring runs 4 hours and 30 minutes total: 15 minutes for the tutorial, 2 hours 15 minutes for multiple-choice questions, an optional 15-minute break, and 1 hour 45 minutes for the open-response assignments.

At a test center you may take restroom breaks, but that time counts against your available testing time. In an online-proctored appointment you get an optional 15-minute break between the multiple-choice section and the open-response section; after that break you no longer have access to the multiple-choice questions.

The qualifying score is 240 and the fee is $139. Review the fee and payment information page before registering so you know the current charge and payment options. Plan your study timeline around your score report release date, which differs between computer-based and online-proctored testing.

Yes. In an online-proctored appointment the open-response assignments get 1 hour and 45 minutes, roughly 52 minutes per response, and they are scored separately from the multiple-choice questions. Practice writing complete responses to both prompts within that limit, including planning, drafting, and reviewing, rather than only outlining answers.

Start with the official preparation materials and tutorials linked from the test page to learn what the test covers. Then alternate content review with timed practice, and finish with full-length simulations that mirror your chosen delivery mode, including the break and the open-response block, so pacing is automatic on test day.

Difficulty is individual, but the most common self-inflicted losses are pacing errors: spending too long on multiple-choice items and arriving at the open-response section short on time, or writing responses that answer only part of the prompt. Practice allocating time per question and rereading each prompt to confirm every required part is addressed.

Retake rules, waiting periods, and any limits are set by MTEL policy, not by this page. Check the Policies section of the MTEL website and your score report for the requirements that apply to your situation before scheduling another appointment, and note that candidates whose score is very close to passing may have an MTEL-Flex option.

Register through the MTEL website. Test-center appointments are available year-round, Monday through Saturday excluding some holidays, at locations in Massachusetts and nationwide. Online proctoring is offered by appointment during one-week testing windows each month; review the system and testing environment requirements before you commit to testing remotely.