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The FTCE General Knowledge Test (082) is required for all Florida teacher certification candidates. It measures basic skills in English, reading, mathematics, and writing that every prospective teacher is expected to possess regardless of subject area. The exam consists of four subtests that can be taken together in one sitting or scheduled separately across multiple appointments.

Exam Format

The exam is computer-based and consists of three multiple-choice subtests and one essay subtest. You may take any combination of subtests in a single appointment or split them across separate appointments. Each subtest is scored independently.

The 4 Subtests

English Language Skills (Test Code 826) — You have 40 minutes to answer approximately 30 multiple-choice questions. This subtest covers language structure (modifiers, parallel structure, sentence construction), vocabulary application (word choice, tone, audience-appropriate language), and standard English conventions (grammar, spelling, punctuation, capitalization).

Reading (Test Code 827) — You have 55 minutes to answer approximately 30 multiple-choice questions. This subtest assesses your ability to identify key ideas and details, analyze text structure and meaning, and integrate information and ideas from written passages.

Mathematics (Test Code 828) — You have 1 hour and 40 minutes to answer approximately 35 multiple-choice questions. An on-screen four-function calculator and a mathematics reference sheet are provided. Topics include number sense and operations, geometry and measurement, algebraic thinking and the coordinate plane, and probability, statistics, and data interpretation.

Essay (Test Code 825) — You have 50 minutes to write one essay in response to a given prompt. Your essay is scored holistically by two raters on a scale of 1 to 4 each (combined score of 2 to 8). You must earn a combined score of at least 6 out of 8 to pass. The essay is evaluated on focus, organization, support, vocabulary and sentence structure, and grammar and conventions.

Scoring

Each of the four subtests is scored separately. For the three multiple-choice subtests (ELS, Reading, Mathematics), you must achieve a scaled score of 200 or higher to pass. For the Essay subtest, you must earn at least 6 out of 8 points. If you pass some subtests but fail others, you only need to retake the subtests you did not pass.

Registration and Cost

All registration is handled through the FTCE/FELE website. The testing fee is $130 for the full exam, regardless of how many subtests you take in a single appointment. Retake fees apply per subtest. Exams are given at approved CBT testing centers. You must wait 31 days before retaking any non-passing subtest.

How to Prepare

The General Knowledge Test covers basic academic skills rather than teaching methodology. Most candidates find the Mathematics and Essay subtests the most challenging. For math, review order of operations, fractions, percentages, geometry formulas, basic algebra, and statistics. For the essay, practice writing timed essays with a clear thesis, organized body paragraphs, and specific supporting details.

The English Language Skills and Reading subtests test standard English grammar and reading comprehension at a college-entry level. If English is your first language and you read frequently, these subtests are typically more straightforward, but reviewing grammar rules (subject-verb agreement, pronoun case, modifier placement) is still worthwhile.

Disclaimer

This guide is an independent resource and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Florida Department of Education. FTCE® is a program of the Florida Department of Education. Information in this guide is based on publicly available exam descriptions and may change. Always verify current exam details at fl.nesinc.com.