General Knowledge Requirement

In the State of Florida, teachers must demonstrate mastery of General Knowledge as one of the requirements for earning a professional teaching certificate.

You may demonstrate mastery of General Knowledge by any one of the following:

  • Achievement of a passing score on the Florida General Knowledge Test earned no more than ten (10) years prior to the date of application
  • A valid standard teaching certificate issued by a US state or territory
  • A valid certificate issued by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards or the American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence
  • Completion of two (2) semesters of full-time college teaching experience or the equivalent in part-time college teaching experience
  • Effective for tests administered on or after July 1, 2015, achievement of passing scores, as identified in Rule 6A-4.0021(12), F.A.C., on test sections of the GRE® revised General Test
    • GRE Analytical Writing combined score of 4 out of 6 acceptable for GK Essay
    • GRE Quantitative Reasoning scaled score of 147 acceptable for GK Mathematics
    • GRE Verbal Reasoning scaled score of 151 acceptable for both GK English Language Skills and GK Reading
  • Documentation of a master's or higher degree on an official transcript or credential evaluation from an accredited institution (effective July 01, 2021). 

To be accepted, passing scores on examinations or tests adopted or approved for educator certification, including the Florida General Knowledge Test or the GRE® revised General Test, must be earned no more than ten (10) years prior to the date of application.

The General Knowledge Test

The General Knowledge Test consists of four subtests to assess the skills and knowledge needed to begin effective careers as professional educators. In addition to taking these subtests, there are other ways to satisfy the General Knowledge Test requirement. Click here to explore them.

About the Subtests

The subtests are computer-based and scheduled by appointment. They consist of the following:

1. Essay: 1 essay, 50 minutes

2. English Language Skills (ELS) Test: 40 multiple choice questions, 40 minutes

3. Reading Test: 40 multiple choice questions, 55 minutes

4. Mathematics Test: 40 multiple choice questions, 100 minutes

What Scores Do You Need to Pass?

For the Essay: At least 8 out of 12 points
For the English Language Skills (ELS), Reading and Math Subtests: Scaled Score of 200 per subtest

You must pass all four subtests to pass the General Knowledge Test.

Test Fees

One subtest: $32.50
Two subtests: $65.00
Three subtests: $97.50
Four subtests: $130.00

Click Here for Helpful Resources (Includes test content and sample questions, tutorials, reference materials, and more.)