Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure Policy Memo

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. 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:

Teacher candidates are strongly encouraged to take the Communications & Literacy Reading and Writing MTELs by the end of the first semester. Candidates must have passed Communication and Literacy Reading and Writing MTELs and have taken (though not necessarily passed) all remaining required MTEL exams prior to applying for Practicum.

Teacher candidates who have not passed all MTELs by the application deadline may be eligible to proceed with Practicum.

Note: Candidates will not be eligible for Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education licensure until all MTEL requirements are complete.

This policy will be in effect as of Fall 2022.

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

Teacher candidates are strongly encouraged to take the Communications & Literacy Reading and Writing MTELs by the end of sophomore year. Candidates must have passed Communication and Literacy Reading and Writing MTELs and have taken (though not necessarily passed) all remaining required MTEL exams prior to applying for Senior Practicum. Teacher candidates who have not passed all MTELs by the application deadline may be eligible to waive some MTEL requirements and proceed with Senior Practicum.

Transfer students who bring in 60+ credits must take the Communications & Literacy Reading & Writing MTELs by the end of their first year at Lesley.

This policy will be in effect as of Fall 2022.