How many Core Modules are there?

There are three. They go by the names Modules 1, 2, and 3.

Is there a particular order to follow the three Modules?

Certainly not. TKT is quite flexible, so you can start with whatever the Module(s) you are more comfortable with. There’s no particular order or a particular combination to be followed.
However, most candidates with no prior teaching experience would start with Module 1 as the lessons are logically sequenced for a much sensible grasp of the concepts. However, an experienced teacher might find it more beneficial to start with Modules 2 and 3.

Should I take only one Module at a time?

You can take any number of modules in a single sitting, whether it’s one, two, or all three modules. However, please note that attempting all three modules at once requires a significant amount of exam preparation. During the exam, it consumes a lot of energy and demands a higher level of concentration. For beginners, it is advisable to take one module at a time. However, experienced teachers may find it scalable to take all three tests in one sitting.

How will I be assessed?

Each test consists of 80 questions, 1 hour and 20 minutes in duration, which are 3-option multiple choice and matching questions. Completing each module earns you a certificate with a ‘Band’.

What is a ‘Band’?

A Band indicates your performance in the test. There are four Bands, ranging from Band 1 to Band 4, with Band 1 being the lowest and Band 4 the highest.

Here are the four Bands along with the number of correct answers required:

Band 4: 70 or more correct answers out of 80 questions
Band 3: 45-69 correct answers out of 80 questions
Band 2: 16-44 correct answers out of 80 questions
Band 1: 0-15 correct answers out of 80 questions

Although you are awarded a certificate regardless of the Band you have obtained, from an employability perspective, Band 3 is considered the minimum. Any Band lower than Band 3 carries very insignificant recognition.

How can I take the test?

If you follow a prep course at a language institute, they will usually take care of exam registration. If you study on your own, you will need to register for the tests at a Cambridge-approved exam center. Don’t worry, it’s a straightforward process. The procedure may vary slightly from country to country and from center to center, but in general, it is similar to the one described below.

• Choose a Cambridge approved exam centre of your choice (You can search all the approved centres available in your country)
• Contact the centre for details – exam date(s), fee, registration deadline
• Complete your registration and receive your ‘confirmation of entry’
• Take the test on the specific date mentioned in the ‘confirmation of entry’

Are all three core Modules mandatory for employment?

To obtain the title of ‘TKT Qualified,’ you must complete all three core modules. Additionally, note that you need to achieve at least Band 3 in each module, which is the minimum requirement in ELT. So, yes, it is highly likely that you will need to become TKT qualified to secure employment.

How much does it cost to get TKT qualified?

If you have chosen the self-study option, it will cost you only the exam fees. In addition to that, the exam fee varies from country to country, and there could be slight variations in the fee from center to center within the same country. However, at the end of the day, the self-study option will save you a considerable amount of money.

What is the time frame for completing the core modules?

TKT certificates are evergreen, so you are not restricted to a particular time period for completing all three core modules. Unless the content for TKT modules undergoes significant changes, you are all set to present your five-year-old Module 1 certificate along with the certificates for Modules 2 and 3 that you received last month.

Can I do TKT Specialist Modules first?

Yes, there are no restrictions on that. In fact, most candidates complete their TKT Core Modules before starting the specialist modules. However, it is important to note that completing the specialist modules alone does not earn you the title of ‘TKT qualified’.