In order to receive an educator license in Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction requires applicants to demonstrate competency in the basic skills of Reading, Writing, and Mathematics, as well as in the content knowledge of their specific license area. Tests and passing scores are approved by the State Superintendent.
Basic Skills Tests
Basic Skills Test requirements were removed by emergency and permanent rule changes in 2016 - 2017.
Subject Area Tests
All candidates who complete their educator preparation programs in an approved Wisconsin educator preparation program after August 31, 2004, are required to demonstrate content area knowledge. This requirement also apply to educators returning to complete a new licensure area (e.g., subject) after August 31, 2004.
Candidates should discuss options with their preparation program advisor or ceritifying officer.
Content Knowledge Assessment
Approved preparation programs are allowed to use the following three options for candidates to demonstrate their content knowledge:
- A grade point average of 3.0 or higher in content-related coursework
- Praxis II content knowledge assessment or the appropriate ACTFL world language assessment
A complete listing of Wisconsin-approved subject area tests and their passing scores can be found on the ETS Website or call 1-800-772-9476.
For ACTFL, Wisconsin requires both the Oral Proficiency interview (OPI-OPIc) and Writing Proficiency Test (WPT). The qualifying score for licensure in Wisconsin on both tests are "Intermediate High. For more information, see the LTI Website (http://www.languagetesting.com) or email admin@languagetesting.com.
- A locally developed content-based portfolio
Wisconsin Foundations of Reading Test
Effective January 31, 2014, applicants for initial licensure as an elementary teacher (grades K-5, EC, EC-MC, MC-EA), a special education teacher, a reading teacher, or reading specialist are required to pass the Foundations of Reading Test for Wisconsin. The Foundations of Reading Test #0090 will no longer be offered after Fall 2022. The passing score for the Foundations of Reading Test #0090 is 240. The Foundations of Reading Test exam #190 will be offered in its place. The passing score for the Foundations of Reading Test #190 is 233. For more information, see Pearson's Wisconsin Foundations of Reading Test.
Note: 2019 Act 44 created an alternative demonstration of knowledge and skill in the teaching of reading for special education teacher candidates only. Contact your preparation program to see if this is an option for you.
Resources for preparing to take the Foundations of Reading Test:
Note: Educators applying through the following License Pathways should click on the pathway name below for more specific information:
- Out-of-State Pathway (also see Out-of-State Testing Guidance document)
- License Based on a Content Test Pathway