Frequently Asked Questions About the Core Subjects EC-6 Exam

What is the TExES Core Subjects EC-6 291 exam?

The Core Subjects EC-6 exam is the test that is required to teach Pre-Kindergarten through 6^th Grade. 

What does the Core Subjects EC-6 291 exam cover?

The exam includes questions about English Language Arts and the Science of Teaching Reading, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Fine Arts, Health, PE, and Theater.

How do I register for the exam?

If you are in an educator preparation program, including a university or alternative certification program, that entity approves you to take the test and then you register through ETS.  If you are not yet in an educator preparation program and want to take your exam first, you can do that by going to the ETS site and creating an account.  You have to sign up for the test as a PACT (pre-admission content test) if you are not yet in an educator preparation program.

How many times can I take the test?

You have 5 attempts to pass the test.

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What happens if I do not pass within 5 attempts?

The state will offer waivers in certain cases to allow a test taker another attempt, but in most cases, you are no longer allowed to take that exam.  For example, if you fail the Core Subjects EC-6 five times, you are no longer allowed to take that exam, but you can take the Core Subjects 4-8 or another exam.

Does each individual subject area test count as an attempt?

Yes, each subject area exam counts as an attempt.  For example, if you failed Mathematics and Science are re-take those individually, you will have used three attempts (one for the first time you took it, one for Math, and one for Science.)  As a result, it is often best to re-take the entire test. 

Do I have to pass the exam in order to teach in Texas?

In order to teach at a public school in Texas, you need to pass your test.  However, some private schools will hire teachers that have not passed their exam.

Once I pass the test, am I certified?

No, you are not certified after passing the test.  You are highly qualified to teach Pre-Kindergarten through 6^th Grade after passing the test.  You have to complete all the requirements of an educator preparation program to get certified.

Can a district hire me once I pass my test?

You need to pass the test and be enrolled in an educator preparation program in order to get a Probationary Certificate, which is what districts require. 

Study material for the Math and ELAR sections and free tips are available!  For more information or for questions, email Courtney at schonefeldcourtney@gmail.com

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BTLPT and LOTE Registration Deadline Approaching

Job fairs are already occurring!  But don't worry, the hiring will continue through the summer.  If you have not yet passed the BTLPT or LOTE, the last day to register is April 15, 2016.  The exams will be offered April 30 through May 7. After that, the next opportunity to take those tests is July.  As a result, it is critical to sign up and take it in April/May if you hope to teach for the 2015-2016 year!  You can get 10 percent off study  material using the code EPP10    Just click on the links on the right hand side to buy the study material.  Best of luck!