Anxious About the Exam? What to Expect

Has it been a while since you took a standardized test? Do you want to know more about what to expect?

This page will provide you with information and sample questions to put your mind at ease and help you feel more prepared.

When should I take the exam?

Once your application has been submitted and approved, TLTA will contact you to choose an exam date. TLTA recommends you have a date in mind upon submitting your application, so you can study and prepare.

Where do I get help in preparing for the exam?

TLTA has created study guide outlines so you know which topics to focus on. You can find them listed on our “Get Prepared” page.

How many questions are on the test?

Each test has 150 multiple choice questions. There is only one correct answer per question. Every time the exam is offered, it is a different exam comprised of a new selection of questions from the TLTA Certification test bank. You are given scratch paper to take notes, which you must turn into to the exam administrator upon completion of the test. Some questions are weighted heavier than others depending on their difficulty. You must obtain a score of 75 percent or more to pass.

Do you have any tips?

• Relax! This will help you feel more alert and reduce physical stress
• Get a feel for your pace.

Can I see some sample questions?

Listed at the end of the page are some examples of test bank questions, so you can feel more comfortable with the style of the test. The answers are listed in bold.

Who grades my test?

We send your exam booklet, answer sheet and notes to a third-party testing company. 

How long until I receive my results?

It can take four to six weeks for us to mail your results. You will be notified by TLTA if the delay will be longer than six weeks.

What happens if I pass?

If you receive a passing grade, TLTA will mail your certificate and designation pin to the home address noted on your application. You will receive a letter indicating you have successfully passed the exam and renewal information to keep your designation current. You will not receive your actual exam score.

What happens if I fail?

Don’t be discouraged! It is not uncommon to receive a score that is not passing on the first attempt. The tests are challenging, and it is easy to be anxious about taking a standardized test! If you receive a notice informing you that you did not receive a passing score, you will also receive a report on the areas you can improve upon for the next exam. You may retake the exam within a two-year period. You will have to pay a re-test fee of $65, and you can contact TLTA regarding a time and date that works with your schedule. 

Are my results confidential?

The identity and information concerning TLTA Certification candidates is confidential. We do not reveal the exam score and do not discuss pass/fail results over the phone. Your results are mailed to the home address indicated on your application.

Certification Test Question Examples

Please see this link for sample test questions.

Do you have additional questions we did not answer? Please call 512.879.2882 or e-mail certification@tlta.com. We would be delighted to personally assist you.