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Office of Educator Preparation

Step 4: Apply for Test Approval

Testing (Certification Exams)

Step 4: Apply for Test Approval

Expand FAQ List

  • When to Apply for Test Approval

    • Test Approval Application Window
      Semester Application Window
      Fall, Spring, Summer Continuously open.

    • To help you identify the point at which you should apply for Test Approval, we have developed the table below.

      However, your path to certification will differ from others seeking the same certificate. 

      Test Approval does not mean you have to take your exams right away; it simply gives you the ability to register for your exams. Please try to pass all your exams prior to Student Teaching. 

      Your degree program Your timeline to apply
      Bachelor's + Certification During your first semester of Blocks
      Second Bachelor's + Certification During your first semester of Blocks
      M.Ed. + Certification (CMED) During Blocks or Field Observations
      Teacher Recruitment Program (TRP) During first semester
      Stand-Alone Teacher Certification During Blocks or Field Observations

  • How to Apply for Test Approval

    • You will need your Texas Education Agency (TEA) ID number for test approval and registration.

      • If you cannot remember your TEA ID#, submit a request to the TEA Help Desk.

      1. Go to ePortfolio and log in. Create and submit an application for Approval to Test.
      2. If your department requires a practice exam, upload proof of passing the practice exam to your ePortfolio application.
      3. Your request will be sent to the Office of Educator Preparation (OEP) for review. 
      4. Please keep in mind that test approval is a manual process and may take up to 10 business days. Test approval cannot be granted over holidays or weekends.

  • Next Steps

    • It is your responsibility not only to study for the exam, but to prepare for the testing experience. The Texas Educator Certification Examination Program provides many in-depth resources.

      • For study tips, and an idea of what to expect, visit the Texas Educator Certification Examination Program page, the Prepare tab.
      • For time duration and to understand how the exam will be formatted, see Preparation Manuals.
      • For ID requirements and other policies, visit the Policies.

    • Pearson offers testing accommodations such as a separate testing room, extra testing time, or a reader or recorder, among other accommodations, for eligible test takers.

      1. Log back into ePortfolio to review your status at any time, but remember, it will take up to 10 business days (two weeks) for a staff member to review your request.
      2. If it has been over 10 business days, you may request an update by emailing the Office of Educator Preparation with your name, Student ID, and a request to look at your application.

    • Check your Texas State email regularly for a Test Approval message from the Office of Educator Preparation. This email will contain test registration instructions and links to study resources.

      • .These emails will carry detailed, time-sensitive instructions.
      • Check your BobcatMail daily, even on weekends and over holidays.

Steps for Testing