The FTCE General Knowledge Test: what to expect and how to prepare
If you are working toward a Florida teaching certificate, the General Knowledge Test is likely one of your first steps. The good news is that it is broken into four subtests that you can take together or separately, so you can build a plan that fits your life. Here is everything you need to know.
Try it free first
Every exam below has a free 25-question diagnostic with an explanation for every answer, created by a registered nurse.
- FTCE General Knowledge: take the free FTCE General Knowledge diagnostic or see the FTCE General Knowledge 6-Month Pass
The four subtests
- Essay: one essay in 50 minutes, scored by two raters for a combined total out of 8. You need at least 6.
- English Language Skills: about 30 multiple-choice questions in 40 minutes.
- Reading: about 30 multiple-choice questions in 55 minutes.
- Mathematics: about 35 multiple-choice questions in 1 hour and 40 minutes, with a reference sheet and an on-screen four-function calculator provided.
Passing scores and fees
For the English Language Skills, Reading and Mathematics subtests, you need a scaled score of at least 200 on each. You must pass all four subtests to pass the General Knowledge Test. The fee is $32.50 for one subtest, $65 for two, $97.50 for three and $130 for all four.
Plan your attempts wisely
You do not have to take all four subtests at once. You can split them into two appointments of two, four separate appointments or any combination, with a separate registration for each appointment. Many people start with the subtest they feel best about, then give themselves extra time for math. If you already hold a master's degree or have qualifying GRE scores, check whether those may satisfy the General Knowledge requirement for you.
Start with a free diagnostic
Our free 25-question diagnostic covers English, reading and math so you can see which subtest needs the most work. The FTCE General Knowledge 6-Month Pass includes a full practice test for each multiple-choice subtest with the real timing, plus essay practice using the same 4-point rubric scale, with model responses at each score point.
Ready to see where you stand?
The free FTCE General Knowledge diagnostic takes about 30 minutes, and you will see an explanation for every answer when you finish.
Common questions
How many questions are on the FTCE General Knowledge Test?
About 30 questions on English Language Skills, about 30 on Reading and about 35 on Mathematics, plus one essay.
What is a passing score on the FTCE GK?
A scaled score of at least 200 on each multiple-choice subtest and at least 6 out of 8 on the essay.
Can I use a calculator on the FTCE GK math subtest?
Yes. An on-screen four-function calculator is provided, and you may not bring your own.
Can I take the FTCE GK subtests separately?
Yes. You can take them in any combination of appointments, registering separately for each appointment.
Sources
We checked these official pages on October 21, 2026. Exam details can change, so always confirm with the exam owner before you register.
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