MTTC Social Studies (084)
MTTC Social Studies (Secondary) (084)
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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
Social Studies (Secondary) (084) is a Michigan Test for Teacher Certification (MTTC) subject assessment, listed on the official program site with endorsement code RX. It is intended for candidates who are preparing to teach social studies at the secondary level in Michigan, usually taken late in an educator preparation program or when adding the endorsement to an existing certificate. The test is computer-based and consists of 100 multiple-choice questions. Candidates receive 2 hours and 30 minutes of testing time inside a 2 hour and 45 minute total appointment, which includes 15 minutes for the CBT tutorial and nondisclosure agreement. The passing score is 220, the test fee is $129 with additional fees possibly applying, and scores are released within 6 weeks of testing. Appointments are offered year-round, Monday through Saturday, at test sites in Michigan and nationwide. Preparation should begin with the official preparation materials and a full-length practice test linked from the test page, so that you can rehearse pacing against the 150-minute testing limit. Note that administrations may include unscored questions being evaluated for future use, and that separate Social Studies (5–9) (141) and Social Studies (7–12) (142) tests are also listed by the program - confirm with your advisor or the Michigan Department of Education which assessment your endorsement pathway requires.
What you'll study
About MTTC Social Studies (084) preparation
What is the format of the Social Studies (Secondary) (084) test?
It is a computer-based test (CBT) made up of 100 multiple-choice questions, delivered at test centers in Michigan and nationwide. There is no separate constructed-response or essay section described on the official test page, so everything you answer is selected response scored against the 220 passing standard.
How much time do I actually get to answer questions?
You get 2 hours and 30 minutes of actual testing time, which works out to roughly 90 seconds per question. Your total appointment is 2 hours and 45 minutes, because the first 15 minutes are reserved for the CBT tutorial and the nondisclosure agreement. Plan your pacing before test day.
What score do I need to pass?
The passing score is 220. Your score report is released within 6 weeks of your testing date, so build that window into any deadline set by your preparation program or by the Michigan Department of Education. Check the posted score report schedule if you are working against a hiring or certification deadline.
How much does the test cost, and are there other fees?
The test fee is $129, and the official page notes that additional fees may apply. Review the payment information on the MTTC site before you register so there are no surprises, and check whether you qualify for any fee reimbursement program the program advertises for first-time test takers.
Can I retake the test if I do not pass?
Yes, MTTC allows retaking, but the retake policy changed effective 9/26/2025 and the specific terms are not spelled out on the test page. Before scheduling a second attempt, read the current Policies section on the MTTC site for waiting periods and registration requirements rather than relying on older information.
When and where can I schedule a test appointment?
Appointments are available year-round, Monday through Saturday, excluding some holidays, and test sites are located in Michigan and nationwide. Use the appointment availability tool on the MTTC site to find a seat, and register early if you need a specific date or a nearby location.
Do all 100 questions count toward my score?
Not necessarily. The official page states that tests may include questions being evaluated for future administrations and that these do not affect your score. You will not be told which items those are, so treat every question as scored and do not leave anything blank.
How should I organize my study time?
Start with the official preparation materials linked from the test page, then take a full-length practice test under timed conditions to find weak areas. Use your results to sequence review, and finish with a second timed run so you can confirm you can sustain roughly 90 seconds per question for 150 minutes.
Should I register for 084 or for the newer Social Studies tests?
The program also lists Social Studies (7–12) (142), with testing starting June 8, 2026, and Social Studies (5–9) (141), with testing starting October 26, 2026. Which assessment you need depends on your endorsement pathway, and since January 1, 2026 some initial endorsements also require a Professional Knowledge and Skills test. Confirm with your advisor or the Michigan Department of Education.