Certification exams
Test When You’re Ready
To earn your teaching certification through American Board, you’ll need to pass your exams: American Board’s Professional Teaching Knowledge (PTK) exam and American Board’s subject area exam(s) for the subject you want to teach. These exams are created by American Board and are designed to make sure you’re ready to succeed in the classroom.
Your american board exams
What You’ll Take
Exam 1
Professional Teaching Knowledge (PTK)
- Take it at a Pearson VUE testing center or online at home with Pearson OnVUE
- Includes an essay component, so allow 2-3 weeks for your results
Exam 2
Subject Area Exam(s)
- Taken in person at a Pearson VUE testing center
- Most are multiple choice, and you get your results as soon as you finish
- English Language Arts includes an essay, so allow 2-3 weeks for results
Keep in mind, these are American Board-specific exams and must be completed in addition to any state-required tests. State exams can’t replace our PTK or subject area exams.
Find a Pearson VUE Near You
Pearson VUE testing centers are located across the U.S. and even internationally. To find the nearest one, visit their website.
FAQs
Common Questions
Do I have to take my exams in a certain order?
No, but we highly recommend taking your PTK exam first, since its essay component means results take longer to come back. We also recommend taking your PTK exam and subject area exam on separate days to avoid fatigue.
What if I fail an exam?
The cost of your first PTK exam and first subject area exam is included in your program. If you need to retake an exam, there is a retake fee of $195.
What if I need to reschedule my exam?
If you need to reschedule or cancel an exam appointment, you must do so at least 48 hours before your appointment. Changes made less than 48 hours ahead are subject to a $195 late cancellation charge.
How long are my exam scores valid?
Your exam scores are valid for five years. If you have not completed the program or applied for your state teaching license within five years of your exam date, you will need to re-enroll and retake your exams.
Where can I find information about the format of my exam?
The first page of every study plan has a section titled “Exam Snapshot.” It breaks down the time allotted, the number of questions and their format, the passing score, and the areas of study.
How do I request exam accommodations?
American Board provides appropriate testing accommodations for individuals with documented disabilities, using the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines to make disability determinations.
You must request and receive approval for an accommodation before scheduling any exams. To request an accommodation form, create a Help Desk ticket in your American Board account.
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