There are several opportunities to meet with transfer representatives from many schools on the GCC campus throughout the school year. We also recommend visiting school’s websites for more information about preparing to enter their programs.

Note that if you are completing the LEO or Science-Math Education degree most bachelor programs require the completion of the the first two years of a secondary major and passing scores on the Communication and Literacy Skills Test (CLST) portion of the Massachusetts Test for Educator Licensure (MTEL) in order to transfer into the program with junior status. You are strongly encouraged to work with your advisor and transfer coordinator to prepare to meet these requirements.

Common Local and In-State Transfer Institutions

Teacher Certification

Early childhood education teachers working with children ages birth-8 years in community-based programs apply to the state for teacher certification. Students successfully completing our Early Childhood Education Associate in Science degree fulfill the requirements for Lead Teacher Certification. You will apply to the state for your certification. For application and more information see https://www.mass.gov/guides/apply-for-eec-professional-qualifications-certification.

Teacher Licensure

Teachers working in the public school system with ages Pre-K through high school apply to the state for teacher licensure. Our Liberal Arts Education Option and Science-Math Education Option both prepare students for transfer to a 4-year school to pursue licensure. Once you successfully complete an approved bachelor’s degree program and pass the required state tests (Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL), you may apply to the state for the license associated with your area of teaching (PreK-2nd grade, 1st-6th grade, 5th-12th grade).

The MTEL consists of at least two parts. The first is called the Communication and Literacy Skills Test (CLST). You are required to take this portion of the test during your undergraduate program. Most bachelor degree education programs require a passing score on the CLST in order to enter the program with junior status. You are strongly encouraged to prepare for this test early and take it during your second year at GCC.

The second part of the MTEL is called the Subject Test. The subject test you take depends on the grade level and subject you plan to teach. You will take this test after you complete your bachelor’s program.

To enter directly into a teacher licensure program with junior standing in early childhood education or elementary education, students must have passing scores on the Communication and Literacy Skills Test (CLST) portion of the Massachusetts Test for Educator Licensure (MTEL). Currently GCC does not offer an on-site workshop to prepare you for the MTEL test.  Transfer-intent education students are encouraged to therefore complete a practice program either online or in a workshop series to gain the information and skills to pass the first portion of the MTEL. The following resources can help you prepare:

• CLST preparation materials
• MTEL practice tests – Sample tests in multiple subjects in PDF format
• MTEL workshops – Offered regularly by the UMass-Amherst College of Education; contact Deb Cameau (413) 545-2701 for more information.

To better understand the process check out this wonderful video from Baypath University.

Scheduling the CLST

The CSLT consists of two different tests, CBEST* Reading and CBEST* Writing. You can take each test separately, or both together at a discounted price. If taken separately, you have four hours to complete each test; if taken together you have four hours total to complete both tests. Learn more »

Find a local testing location and dates (search the Pearson site for “CBEST”)

* California Basic Education Skills Test