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​Act 168 FAQ
Formal Entry into a Teacher Prep Program

Basic Skills Testing Waived from July 8, 2022 through July 8, 2025

Introduction

In October 2014, the Pennsylvania General Assembly enacted Act 168 (24 P.S. §1-111.1). Specifically, Act 168 requires an assessment of basic skills to be completed by preparation candidates prior to entry into a Pennsylvania baccalaureate teacher preparation program. It also states that the basic skills assessment is not required for entry into a post-baccalaureate preparation program for someone who holds a post-baccalaureate degree. Finally, Act 168 mandates that no baccalaureate certification program shall admit a student who has not met these requirements by August 1, 2015.

In consideration of the requirements of Act 168 and its impact on entry into baccalaureate teacher preparation programs and post-baccalaureate teacher preparation programs, the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s (PDE) Bureau of School Leadership and Teacher Quality is releasing the following Frequently Asked Question to help interpret the legislation and counsel your students.

 Accordion



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​Formal Entry into a Teacher Preparation Program

​Professional Core Courses

​Post-baccalaureate Candidates