MTTC English as a Second Language (126)
Michigan Test for Teacher Certification (MTTC) - English as a Second Language (126)
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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.
ExploreExam-day guide
Prepare for the day ahead.
ExploreAbout this exam
The MTTC English as a Second Language (126) is one of the subject-area tests in the Michigan Test for Teacher Certification program, the state's teacher-licensure testing system listed on the official MTTC website. Candidates take it to demonstrate the knowledge expected of an educator who teaches English learners, and it sits alongside related offerings such as Bilingual Education (125) and the world-language tests in the same catalog. The exam is delivered in English and, like other MTTC subject tests, is administered through the program's registration and score-reporting system, with test dates, sites, and score report schedules published on the official site. Preparation is self-directed: the program provides preparation materials, full-length practice tests, and preparation videos, and periodically runs free webinars on preparation strategies. Note that program policies change; the site announced a retake policy update effective 9/26/2025 and, effective January 1, 2026, a requirement that initial endorsements in several areas include passing both a Professional Knowledge and Skills test and the specific subject test. Candidates should confirm current requirements with the Michigan Department of Education and the official MTTC site before registering. This page is independent study material and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the testing program.
What you'll study
About MTTC English as a Second Language (126) preparation
What is the MTTC English as a Second Language (126) test?
It is the subject-area test for the English as a Second Language endorsement in Michigan's teacher certification program. It appears in the official MTTC test catalog alongside Bilingual Education (125) and the world-language tests. Check the official site for the current test framework and registration details before you schedule.
Who needs to take it?
Candidates seeking an ESL endorsement, and anyone whose preparation program or the Michigan Department of Education directs them to pass it. Because endorsement rules changed effective January 1, 2026 for several areas, confirm your specific requirements with MDE and your adviser rather than relying on older guidance.
How do I register?
Registration is handled online through the official MTTC website, which also lists test dates, sites, and score report schedules. Create or sign in to your account, select English as a Second Language (126), and choose an available appointment. Verify fees and policies on the site at the time you register, since program policies are updated periodically.
How long is the test and how many questions does it have?
The official source page does not state a question count or time limit for this test. Rather than rely on secondhand figures, check the test page and preparation materials on the official site, which publish the current framework and testing time for each assessment.
What score do I need to pass?
The passing standard is not given in the source material available here. Score scales and passing requirements are published by the program and can change, so review the score reporting information on the official MTTC site and your score report, which shows your result and testing history.
Can I retake the test if I do not pass?
Yes, retakes exist, but the rules changed: the program announced a retake policy update effective 9/26/2025. Read the current retake policy on the official site before rescheduling, since waiting periods and registration conditions may differ from what older study forums describe.
How should I organize my studying?
Start with the official preparation materials and a full-length practice test to identify weak areas, then work through the preparation videos and any scheduled preparation-strategy webinars. Build a study calendar around your target test date, and reserve the final weeks for timed practice and review of missed items.
Why do candidates struggle with this test?
Common problems are studying from outdated secondhand summaries, underestimating how much applied classroom scenarios reward careful reading, and neglecting the official framework in favor of generic ESL review. Another frequent issue is registering late and rushing preparation. Anchor your study in official materials and verify all policies directly.