Overview
The Teaching Knowledge Test (TKT) is a Cambridge English test of the knowledge about teaching English that a teacher needs. It suits new and experienced teachers. Most facts here are from Cambridge pages, and the scoring detail comes from reports, so confirm it with Cambridge.
Who can apply
Candidates need English at B1 level or above. Teachers can take any number of modules in any order.
Levels or stages
TKT has three core modules and two specialist modules. Each module earns its own certificate.
Core modules
Module 1: Background to language learning and teaching
Module 2: Lesson planning and use of resources for language teaching
Module 3: Managing the teaching and learning process
Specialist modules
TKT CLIL: Content and Language Integrated Learning
TKT YL: Young Learners
Exam pattern
Each module is an 80-minute multiple-choice test, on paper or on a computer. Both give the same qualification, and the computer version allows later booking and faster results. Module 1 is reported to have 80 questions in three parts.
Marking and results
Reports say each question is worth one mark, up to 80 per module, and results are given as Bands 1 to 4 rather than pass or fail. Band 4 is the highest.
Preparation tips
Learn the standard teaching terms, since many questions test terminology.
Use Cambridge's sample papers to practise matching and multiple-choice formats.
Is TKT pass or fail?
Reports say it is not. Results are given in Bands 1 to 4.
Do I have to take all modules?
No. You can take any number of modules in any order.