Lesley University's Requirements Pertaining to the Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure

Taking MTELS early and passing all required exams before the practicum provides educator licensure candidates with early identification of issues that potentially could affect their ability to be licensed to teach or work in schools. The university is committed to providing students with information and resources that will help them address any academic needs identified by the results of this test(s) or by other evaluative tools in the academic programs.

For all graduate (post-baccalaureate) programs leading to an Initial License in Massachusetts:

• All applicants seeking admission to an Initial licensure program are strongly advised to take the Communication and Literacy Skills MTEL as soon as possible.
• All candidates seeking an Initial license must pass all portions of the MTEL(s) required for their Initial license to be eligible for student teaching or practicum. (Exception: Reading Specialist candidates are required to take, but are not required to pass, the Reading Specialist MTEL prior to the practicum.) 

For all undergraduate (baccalaureate) programs leading to an Initial License in Massachusetts:

• In order to be eligible for senior student teaching, students must pass all portions of the MTEL(s) required for their Initial license.