NYSTCE ESOL (116)
English to Speakers of Other Languages CST (116)
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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 English to Speakers of Other Languages CST (116) is a New York State Teacher Certification Examination (NYSTCE) content specialty test for candidates seeking certification to teach English language learners in New York. It is one of the NYSTCE tests listed by the New York State Education Department and administered through the NYSTCE program, so anyone planning to teach ESOL in a New York classroom should confirm their specific certification requirements with the state before registering. The test is computer-based and combines 90 selected-response items with 1 constructed-response item, so preparation must cover both rapid recognition of concepts and the ability to write a sustained, well-organized analytical response. Candidates should expect content spanning language acquisition theory, linguistics, instructional planning and assessment for multilingual learners, and the sociocultural and legal context of ESOL education. A passing score of 520 is required. Build a study plan around the official preparation materials for this test, take the practice test to identify weak areas, and rehearse the constructed-response task under timed conditions. Note that tests may include questions being evaluated for future administrations that do not affect your score.
What you'll study
About NYSTCE ESOL (116) preparation
What is the format of the ESOL CST (116)?
It is a computer-based test with 90 selected-response items and 1 constructed-response item. The total appointment time is 3 hours and 30 minutes, which includes 15 minutes for the CBT tutorial and nondisclosure agreement, leaving 3 hours and 15 minutes of testing time.
What score do I need to pass?
The passing score is 520. Candidates who score within 0.5 standard error of measurement (SEM) of the passing score on a required NYSTCE test may apply for a waiver, so a near-miss score is worth checking against the waiver process before you re-register.
How much does the test cost?
The test fee is $122. Review the complete fee and payment policy information on the NYSTCE site before registering, since payment rules and any refund or rescheduling conditions are governed by those policies rather than by the test page itself.
When and where can I take the test?
Appointments are available by appointment year-round, Monday through Saturday, excluding some holidays. Test sites are located in New York State and nationwide, so check appointment availability and find the nearest test center before you settle on a date.
How hard is the ESOL CST, and what trips candidates up?
The exam is broad, and the most common failure mode is treating the constructed-response item as an afterthought. Practice writing a full response under time pressure, and use the official practice test to find weak content areas rather than rereading material you already know.
How long should I study, and in what order?
There is no official required study time, so plan around your gaps. Start with the official preparation materials and a practice test to diagnose weaknesses, then study the highest-need domains first and finish with timed constructed-response practice. Reserve the final weeks for full-length timed review.
Can I retake the test, and how soon?
Retake and waiting-period rules are not stated on the test information page. Review the NYSTCE testing, registration, and score reporting policies, or contact the program directly, before assuming how soon you can register again after an unsuccessful attempt.
How do I request testing accommodations?
Alternative testing arrangements are available by request. Read the alternative testing arrangements information and submit your request according to program instructions well before your intended test date, since approval and scheduling can take time.
Do all questions count toward my score?
Not necessarily. Tests may include test questions that are being evaluated for future administrations and that do not affect a candidate's score. Answer every item as if it counts, since you cannot tell which ones are being field-tested.
When will I get my score report?
Score report dates are published by the program rather than fixed at a set interval after testing. Check the score report dates page for your administration and review the score reporting policies so you know when and how results are released.