All CTEL Subtests (3)
The CTEL consists of three separately scored subtests. All three must be passed within the last 10 years to earn an English Learner Authorization. Register at ctcexams.nesinc.com. Subtests may be taken together in one 6-hour combined session ($260) or separately. Score scale: 100–300. Pass: 220 per subtest.
Covers the foundations of language structure and how students acquire a first and second language. Tests knowledge of English phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics — and how these structures inform literacy instruction for English learners. Fee: $98 (separate) or included in $260 combined session.
The longest and most comprehensive subtest. Covers ELD and Specially Designed Academic Instruction in English (SDAIE), academic language development, formal and informal assessment of English learners, program models for EL instruction, and collaboration with families and community. Fee: $147 (separate) or included in $260 combined session.
The shortest subtest. Covers cultural diversity and inclusion in the classroom, creating culturally responsive learning environments, understanding home-school connections, recognizing and addressing bias, and supporting diverse families of English learners. Fee: $99 (separate) or included in $260 combined session.
🏫 English Learner Authorization & Bilingual Authorization
Passing all three CTEL subtests within the last 10 years is one method of satisfying the requirements for a California English Learner (EL) Authorization (also called a CLAD Certificate). To earn the EL Authorization, candidates must also hold an appropriate prerequisite credential or permit and satisfy a second-language requirement. The CTEL may also be used to contribute toward a Bilingual Authorization. Bilingual Authorizations are available in 17 languages including Spanish, Mandarin, Cantonese, Arabic, Vietnamese, Korean, and others. For full requirements, see CTC Leaflet CL-628C at ctc.ca.gov.
CTEL Subtest Comparison
All three CTEL subtests must be passed to earn the English Learner Authorization. Each subtest is scored independently on a 100–300 scale with 220 required to pass.
What Is the CTEL®?
The California Teacher of English Learners (CTEL) examination was developed by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) in response to California Education Code Sections 44253.3–44253.5, which require the CTC to issue authorizations for teachers to provide specialized instruction to English learners and to develop examinations demonstrating competence in that instruction. The CTC contracted with the Evaluation Systems group of Pearson to administer the examination.
The CTEL assesses whether prospective educators possess the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively teach English learners (EL)in California's diverse K–12 classrooms. The exam is organized around three domains: language structure and language development, assessment and EL instruction (the most comprehensive domain), and culturally responsive and inclusive teaching. Each subtest includes both multiple-choice questions (70% of score) and constructed-response essays (30% of score).
All three subtests can be taken in a single 6-hour combined test-center session for $260, or taken separately. Online proctoring is also available for individual subtests. Register and verify requirements at ctcexams.nesinc.com.
How to Register for the CTEL
Four steps to register through the official California Educator Credentialing Examinations portal.
CTEL Passing Scores & Score Scale
Each CTEL subtest is scored independently on a 100–300 scaled score range. The minimum passing score is 220 per subtest. Multiple-choice questions account for 70% of the score; constructed-response essays account for 30%. Verify requirements at ctcexams.nesinc.com.
Each CTEL subtest is scored on a 100–300 scaled range. The minimum passing score of 220 was established by the CTC. Multiple-choice questions account for 70% of the total score; constructed-response essays account for 30%. There is no penalty for incorrect multiple-choice answers. Each subtest is scored independently — passing one subtest does not affect the score on another. Scores are valid for 10 years. Retake wait: 45 calendar days. Official scores released within 5 weeks of testing.
Registration, Test Day & Scheduling
Everything you need to know before and on exam day for the CTEL.
Registration & Fees
Testing Formats
Scores
Retakes
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything California teacher candidates need to know about the CTEL examination.
Ready to Pass Your CTEL?
Adaptive practice questions for all three CTEL subtests — Language and Language Development, Assessment and Instruction, and Culture and Inclusion. Subtest-level analytics so you know exactly where to focus before test day.
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