MTEL Passing Requirements
Each MTEL® test has multiple-choice questions and at least two open-response questions such as short answer and/or essay questions. In order to pass, a total test scaled score of 240 is required. If a test has more than one subtest, the candidate must earn a minimum of 240 on each test.
A scaled score is the conversion of the number of points earned to a score between 100 and 300. The number of correct answers on the multiple-choice questions plus the scores earned for each open-response question determines the total score for each test. Incorrect answers on the multiple-choice questions are not counted so no points are “lost” for wrong answers. Two or more qualified Massachusetts educators licensed in the subject area grade the open-response answers. They are trained in judging the “overall effectiveness” of each answer using a performance scale that ranges from weak to thorough.
If a candidate does not pass an MTEL® test, it may be retaken whenever the test is offered. Once a passing score is achieved on a subtest, it does not have to be retaken.
