To become a certified teacher in Florida, individuals must pass three state exams demonstrating their knowledge and readiness to teach. These exams are known as the Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (FTCE) and are administered by Pearson Evaluation Systems.
At Florida International University (FIU), students in teacher preparation programs are required to pass the following three exams before they graduate:
- General Knowledge Test (GKT): Assesses basic skills in reading, writing, math, and includes an essay component
- Professional Education Test (PEd): Measures knowledge of effective teaching methods and professional practices
- Subject Area Examination (SAE): Focuses on the specific subject and grade level the student plans to teach
The State of Florida requires these certification exams, as outlined in Rule 6A-4.0021 of the Florida Administrative Code. For additional information, visit the Florida Department of Education's FTCE website.
The General Knowledge Test (GKT) includes a total of four (4) subtests as follows:
Essay Subtest: 1 essay
Scoring Criteria, Annotated Sample Responses, and Sample Essay Topics
ELS Subtest: approximately 30 multiple-choice questions
Reading Subtest: approximately 30 multiple-choice questions
Mathematics Subtest: approximately 35 multiple-choice questions