MTTC Information
The Michigan Department of Education (MDE) requires a testing program as part of Michigan's teacher certification requirements to ensure that certified teachers can demonstrate the necessary professional readiness and content knowledge to serve in Michigan Schools.
The Michigan Tests for Teacher Certification (MTTC) program currently consists of subject area tests, which must be taken for each endorsement area a candidate is seeking. Individuals should not take an MTTC without first being directed to by either the Michigan Department of Education or a preparation program (like UM-Dearborn).
In order to obtain a certificate or endorsement students must successfully complete an MDE approved teacher certification program and pass the relevant MTTC.
Official evidence of passing scores must be reported directly to the College of Education, Health, and Human Services (CEHHS) by the test administrator, Pearson Education, Inc. Please select electronic delivery to the University of Michigan-Dearborn when you register for your test date(s).
Test scores cannot be hand-delivered or emailed by the student to CEHHS.
Level-Based vs. Grade Band MTTC
Because of changing MDE requirements, effective Fall 2022, the University of Michigan-Dearborn began to transition to new grade band teacher certification programs. The new academic programs also require new MTTCs that are in alignment with the new program content.
Individuals who completed (or are completing) level-based programs, must pass any required level-based MTTC(s) before their expiration. Individuals who completed (or are completing) a grade band program, must pass the required series of grade band MTTC(s).
Level-based MTTCs are phasing out. Please consult with the CEHHS Office of Student Success if you have questions regarding which MTTC you should take.
Level-Based MTTC Exams
MTTC Elementary Level-Based Exams
Undergraduate and post-degree students in elementary level-based programs must pass the Michigan Test for Teacher Certification - Elementary Education exam before they can be recommended for certification in accordance with the Michigan Department of Education. The Elementary Education (#103) exam will no longer be available starting July 2026. Students in level-based elementary certification programs must be eligible to student teach no later than Winter 2025.
MTTC Secondary Level-Based Exams
Undergraduate, post-degree, and Master of Arts in Teaching students in level-based secondary certification programs must pass the Michigan Test for Teacher Certification in their subject major and optional subject minor before they can be recommended for certification in accordance with the Michigan Department of Education. The first set of content MTTCs for secondary certification will be phased out in 2029. More information to be released when available.
Grade Band MTTC Exams
MTTC Elementary Grade Band Exams
Undergraduate students pursuing the B.A. in Elementary Education must pass the Michigan Test for Teacher Certification exams in their relevant concentration areas before they can be recommended for certification in accordance with the Michigan Department of Education.
MTTC Secondary Grade Band Exams
Undergraduate students pursuing the B.A. in Secondary Education and those in the grade band Master of Arts in Teaching must pass the Michigan Test for Teacher Certification in their relevant concentration areas before they can be recommended for certification in accordance with the Michigan Department of Education.