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MTELCode: 72

MTEL Early Childhood (72) Practice Tests

Prepare for the MTEL Early Childhood (72): 100 multiple-choice questions, 2 open-response items in 4 hours, covering 5 content areas: Child Development, Language Foundations, and the Writing Process (26%), Core Knowledge in Mathematics (20%), Core Knowledge in History and Social Science (17%) and Core Knowledge in Science and Technology/Engineering (17%), and 1 more.

102
Questions
4h
Time limit
240
Pass score
5
Domains
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Source: All exam details are drawn from official examination program websites and state educator certification agency documentation. Most state licensure exams are developed and administered by Evaluation Systems of Pearson (nesinc.com) on behalf of state departments of education. Always verify current requirements with your state's teacher certification agency.

MTEL Early Childhood (72): Test at a Glance

Key facts directly from the official Massachusetts DESE test specifications.

Test Code
72
MTEL
Total Questions
102
Selected-response
Time Limit
4h
Computer-delivered
Passing Score
240
Scaled; varies by state
Registration Fee
Varies
Paid to Massachusetts DESE at registration
Content Areas
5
Official blueprint
Score Reporting
Varies
After test date
Delivery
Computer
Prometric or remote

Official Exam Blueprint

The official Massachusetts DESE blueprint defines exactly 5 content categories. Percentages are drawn directly from official exam specifications.

Category 1
Child Development, Language Foundations, and the Writing Process
26%
27 questions
Category 2
Core Knowledge in Mathematics
20%
20 questions
Category 3
Core Knowledge in History and Social Science
17%
17 questions
Category 4
Core Knowledge in Science and Technology/Engineering
17%
17 questions
Category 5
Integration of Knowledge and Understanding
20%
20 questions

Registration & Test Day

Everything you need to know before and on test day.

Registration

Register withMassachusetts DESE
Registration feeVaries
ID requiredGovernment-issued photo ID
Score recipientsDesignate at registration

Scoring

Score typeScaled score
Raw score basisCorrect answers only
Passing scoreVaries by state
Results availableVaries by exam

In-Person Testing

Test centersVaries by exam program
Personal itemsStored in locker
Scratch paperProvided at station
Admission ticketPrint from testing account

Remote Testing

DeviceLaptop/desktop only
No touchscreensTablets not allowed
Browser requiredSecure test browser (if applicable)
Equipment neededCamera, mic, speakers

Passing Score Requirements by State

Passing scores are not uniform across states.

Important: Passing score requirements for the MTEL Early Childhood (72) are set individually by each state or licensing agency. A score that meets requirements in one state may not meet requirements in another. Always verify the exact passing score for your state with Massachusetts DESEor your state's teacher certification agency before registering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers sourced from official examination program documentation and test preparation resources.

How many questions are on the MTEL Early Childhood (72) exam?+
The MTEL Early Childhood (72) consists of 102 selected-response questions with a standard time limit. Questions assess both foundational knowledge and the ability to apply concepts to practical situations.
What is the passing score for the MTEL Early Childhood (72)?+
Passing scores vary by state and institution. Always verify the specific requirement for your state with Massachusetts DESE or your state's teacher certification agency before registering.
How much does the MTEL Early Childhood (72) exam cost?+
Registration fees vary by exam and are paid directly to Massachusetts DESE at the time of registration. Some states or institutions may charge additional fees.
When will I receive my MTEL Early Childhood (72) score?+
Official score reports are typically available several weeks after your test date. Scores are posted to your testing account and sent to any institutions you designated at registration.
Can I take the MTEL Early Childhood (72) exam at home?+
Remote testing availability varies by exam program. Check with Massachusetts DESE for current options, which may include a secure browser, webcam, microphone, and live proctor monitoring.
Is there a penalty for wrong answers on the MTEL Early Childhood (72)?+
Scoring policies vary by exam program — verify with Massachusetts DESE whether incorrect answers are penalized before test day.

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Sources: Official MTEL examination program documentation and state educator certification agency resources, administered by Massachusetts DESE. This site is not affiliated with or endorsed by Massachusetts DESE. Passing score requirements vary by state — always verify current requirements with your state's teacher certification agency.
Last Updated: October 29, 2026