TKT

What is TKT?

TKT is a series of modular teaching qualifications that test your knowledge in specific areas of English language teaching. Each of the five modules consist of an 80-minute multiple-choice test, and they can be taken in any order or combination. Whether you are a new teacher or have years of experience, TKT is ideal for those who need to prove their teaching knowledge with a globally recognised certificate. It’s a cost-effective way to build your confidence and advance your career in English language teaching.

Who is the TKT for?

You can take TKT whatever your background and teaching experience. It is suitable if you are:

• A pre-service or a practising teacher.
• Teaching primary, secondary or adult learners.
• A non-first language or first language English speaker.
• A teacher who wants to gain formal recognition of your experience, keep your teaching skills up to date and develop your career opportunities.

You should ideally have English proficiency at CEFR Level B1 or above.

About the Test

TKT is taken as a series of multiple-choice tests. Each module consists of an 80-question paper-based exam, and you have 80 minutes for each exam. Each question is worth one mark. There are five modules, which can be taken in any order or combination.

Core Modules
A test of knowledge about the principles and practice of English language teaching.

Module 1: Background to Language Learning and Teaching

This module tests candidates’ knowledge of terms and concepts common in English language teaching. It also focuses on the factors underpinning the learning of English and knowledge of the range and functions of the choices teachers have at their disposal to cater for these learning factors.

Module 2: Lesson Planning and Use of Resources for Language Teaching

This module focuses on what teachers consider and do while planning their teaching. It also considers the linguistic and methodological reference resources that are available to guide teachers in their lesson planning.

Module 3: Managing the Teaching and Learning Process

This module tests teachers’ knowledge of what happens in the classroom in terms of the language used by the teacher or learners, the roles the teacher can fulfil, and the ways in which the teacher can manage and exploit classroom events and interactions.

Specialist Modules
An introduction to specialist areas of English language teaching.

TKT: CLIL (Contents and Integrated Learning)

This module tests knowledge of the aims and rationale of a CLIL approach. It covers the planning, teaching and assessment of CLIL. It also focuses on teachers’ awareness of learning demands and support strategies for learners in CLIL programmes.

TKT: YL (Young Learner)

TKT: YL is an exam for teachers and classroom assistants who want to teach English to young learners. It tests knowledge of concepts related to young learner learning and development, and knowledge of young learners from a teaching perspective, including the planning, teaching and assessment of young learners’ work.

Results

You will receive a certificate for each TKT module that you complete.

There is no Pass or Fail. Results are reported in Bands 1–4, with Band 4 being the highest. Band 1 represents limited knowledge of the content areas tested; Band 2, basic but systematic knowledge; Band 3 shows a breadth and depth of knowledge and Band 4 extensive knowledge.

Flexibility and Recognition
You can take as many modules as you want, over any time period. For each module you complete, you receive a Cambridge English certificate. This flexibility allows you to tailor your professional development to fit your schedule and career goals.

Exam Schedule (Tokyo 2026 - 2027)

Sunday, 19th of July, 2026
Sunday, 13th of December, 2026
Sunday, 21st of March, 2027

Location: Tokyo
(Group exam at preferred location across Japan available upon request.)

Scheduling: TKT exams may be scheduled in either the morning or afternoon. The exact timing can only be confirmed after registration has closed, once candidate numbers across modules and other exams on the same day have been finalised. For this reason, we ask all candidates to keep the full day available. In some cases, it may be possible to sit up to two modules on the same day. Please indicate this at the time of application; however, this cannot be guaranteed and will depend on the overall exam schedule.

Exam Fees
Exam Fee per module: 16,500 yen*

*Tax included. Registration is required and must be completed no later than eight weeks before the exam date. An additional administrative fee of ¥700 (tax included) will be charged separately.