Licensure Exams
To receive an initial New York State teaching certificate, candidates are required to achieve a passing score on the Liberal Arts and Science Test (LAST), the elementary or the secondary version of the Assessment of Teaching Skills - Written (ATS-W), and on a Content Specialty Test (CST) in the content area of certification.
Liberal Arts and Science Test (LAST)
In the past three years, Teachers College candidates demonstrated a 100% pass rate on LAST, with the mean score being more than 50 points above the minimum passing score of 220. The test covers scientific, mathematical, and technological processes; historical awareness; artistic expression and the humanities; communication and research skills; and written analysis and expression. To pass, candidates are asked to demonstrate conceptual and analytical skills, critical thinking and communication skills, and multicultural awareness.
Year | Test Takers | Passed | Pass Rate | Mean Score |
| 2010-11 | 178 | 178 | 100% | 272 |
| 2009-10 | 339 | 339 | 100% | 272 |
| 2008-09 | 335 | 335 | 100% | 273 |
Teaching Skills (ATS-W)
Teachers College candidates consistently demonstrate a 100% pass rate on ATS-W. These tests address student development and learning, instruction and assessment, and the professional environment. Both elementary and secondary versions of the ATS-W consist of multiple-choice test questions and a written essay.
Year | Test Takers | Passed | Pass Rate | Mean Score |
| 2010-11 | 148 | 148 | 100% | 274 |
| 2009-10 | 343 | 343 | 100% | 272 |
| 2008-09 | 343 | 343 | 100% | 272 |
Content Specialty Tests (CSTs)
Teachers College provides preparation in 19 specialty areas. In the past three years, Teachers College candidates in the initial teacher education programs demonstrated a 95%-99% pass rate on the applicable CSTs; candidates in the three advanced teaching programs that require CSTs demonstrated a 100% pass rate.
Year | Test Takers | Passed | Pass Rate | Mean Score |
Initial |
| 2010-11 | 136 | 131 | 96% | 260 |
| 2009-10 | 390 | 367 | 94% | 259 |
| 2008-09 | 393 | 381 | 97% | 257 |
Advanced |
| 2010-11 | 8 | 8 | 100% | 277 |
| 2009-10 | 16 | 16 | 100% | 273 |
| 2008-09 | 24 | 24 | 100% | 267 |
