Tile Setting NC II
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ExploreAbout this exam
Tile Setting NC II is a Philippine national certificate under the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) system. It certifies that a holder can perform the core competencies of a tile setter at skilled-worker level: preparing surfaces and setting out work, cutting and shaping ceramic and porcelain tiles, mixing and applying mortar and adhesive, laying floor and wall tiles including special features, grouting and sealing, and checking finished work for defects. It suits entry-level tile setters, construction workers moving into finishing trades, and workers preparing for deployment or local employment who want a portable, competency-based credential. Assessment is competency-based rather than purely academic: candidates typically face a written or oral knowledge component plus a practical demonstration where they perform actual tile work and are observed against performance criteria. Preparation should follow the current TESDA Training Regulations for the qualification, which list the basic, common and core competencies and the assessment criteria. Enroll in an accredited training center or work through the competency standards with a mentor, then practise full installations end to end - setting out, cutting, fixing, grouting and self-inspection - rather than isolated skills. Confirm all current logistics with TESDA and your assessment center.
What you'll study
About Tile Setting NC II preparation
What exactly does the Tile Setting NC II certificate prove?
It certifies that you have demonstrated the competencies in the current Training Regulations for the qualification - surface preparation and setting-out, tile cutting, adhesive and mortar work, floor and wall installation, finishing, and quality checking - as judged by an accredited assessor. It is a competency credential, not a license, and it does not by itself guarantee employment.
What is the exam format?
Expect two parts: a knowledge component (written or oral questions on safety, tools, materials, drawings and procedures) and a practical performance assessment where you carry out real tile work while an assessor observes against the performance criteria. Your assessment center will confirm the exact structure and materials required before your schedule.
How many questions are there, how long does it take, and what does it cost?
These details vary by assessment center and are set by the official body, so no figure is quoted here. Check the current TESDA announcement for the qualification and confirm fees, schedule and requirements directly with your chosen accredited assessment center before paying anything.
What is the passing score or passing rate?
Competency-based assessment is generally judged as competent or not yet competent against each criterion rather than as a percentage score. The current criteria and any scoring rules are published by TESDA in the Training Regulations and assessment materials; ask your center for the version in force when you apply.
If I fail, can I retake it?
Reassessment is normally allowed, but the rules, waiting periods and fees are set by the official body and the center. Ask your assessment center in writing about the reassessment policy before you enroll, and focus your retake preparation on the specific competencies the assessor marked as not yet competent.
How long is the certificate valid?
Validity and renewal rules are determined by TESDA and can change, so confirm the current policy on the official TESDA website or with your assessment center. Do not rely on what a previous batch was told; check the rule that applies to your certificate date.
How difficult is it for someone with no site experience?
The knowledge part is manageable with study, but the practical part rewards hands-on hours. Candidates with no site experience usually need structured training to build speed and consistency in setting out, cutting and levelling. Practise complete installations, not just single skills, because assessors watch your whole work sequence.
In what order should I study the topics?
Start with workplace safety and 5S, since safety underpins every practical task and is easy marks. Then learn to read drawings and specifications, followed by tools and materials, surface preparation and setting-out, cutting, adhesive and mortar work, laying and fixing, grouting and sealing, and finally defect identification and rectification. Finish with full mock installations.
What do candidates most often get wrong?
Common weaknesses are poor setting-out that leaves crooked or uneven joints, inconsistent adhesive coverage leading to hollow tiles, skipped surface preparation, weak grouting and sealing, and unsafe housekeeping on the work area. Assessors also notice candidates who cannot explain why they chose a tool or material, so learn the reasoning behind each step.
Where can I find the official requirements and updates?
Use the official TESDA website and its regional or provincial offices for the current Training Regulations, accredited centers and assessment schedules. This page is independent study material and is not affiliated with TESDA; always treat the official publication as the final authority on requirements and logistics.