Michigan Test for Teacher Certification (MTTC)

The MTTC Basic Skills and Subject Area tests are offered on Calvin's campus four times annually. Michigan law mandates a testing program for students who wish to be teachers. These tests are meant to ensure that each certified teacher has the necessary basic skills and subject area knowledge to serve in Michigan's schools. These tests are designed and implemented by the Michigan Dept of Education.

Basic Skills:

Before students are admitted to Calvin's Teacher Education Program, they must pass the MTTC Basic Skills tests in math, writing, and reading. These tests are typically passed during a student's first or second year at Calvin. They must be passed before a student is permitted to take a 300-level education course. Students may retake section(s) that they fail as many times as necessary. The Basic Skills test fee is $49.

Students may register at www.mttc.nesinc.com or by mail using the booklet available in the Education Department office. The booklet and website include detailed information about the MTTC tests. During the registration process, be sure to identify yourself as a Calvin student and also request that your scores be sent to Calvin. Canadians: please register using your U.S. social security number - not your Canadian social insurance number. The Basic Skills study guide is available on the MTTC website. Study guide booklets are also available at the Hekman Library Reserve Desk on the second floor and can be checked out for one day. The tests are completed in Hiemenga Hall. Basic Skills Test passing scores are valid indefinitely.

Subject Area Tests:

In order to be certified, students must pass the MTTC subject area tests that correspond to the major and minor field(s) of study. These tests should not be taken until the final year of the program, but it is highly recommended that students pass their MTTC subject area test(s) before student teaching. Subject area test scores are valid for five years from the date of testing (students need to be certified within those five years).

Students seeking elementary certification must also take the Elementary Education MTTC test. Students in the Cognitive Impairment program who wish to teach in that setting must complete the Mentally Impaired test (#56) and the Elementary Education test (#83).

Register at www.mttc.nesinc.com or by mail using the booklet available in the Education Department office. It costs $74.00 for the first subject area test and $59.00 for each additional subject area test taken on the same day. During the registration process, be sure to identify yourself as a Calvin student and also request that your scores be sent to Calvin. Canadians: please register using your U.S. social security number - not your Canadian social insurance number. Be sure to review the appropriate study guides. Study guide booklets are also available at the Hekman Library Reserve Desk on the second floor and can be checked out for one day. The tests are completed in Hiemenga Hall.

2007-2008 MTTC Registration Information

Which Subject Tests do I Need to Take?

MTTC Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions, contact Calvin's Teacher Certification Office at (616) 526-6208 or certification@calvin.edu.