Exams
edTPA Teaching Performance Assessment
edTPA is a subject-specific teaching performance assessment used by some states and programs as evidence of readiness to teach. It is not universal, many states never adopted it or have substituted other options.
Reviewed by Brittnie Vargas, School principal, M.Ed.Editorial processKey takeaways
- edTPA is a subject-specific teaching performance assessment used by some states and programs as evidence of readiness to teach. It is not universal, many states never adopted it or have substituted other options.
- It depends on the state and year. Some jurisdictions have paused or replaced edTPA. Confirm with your preparation program and state board before registering.
Candidates typically complete edTPA during student teaching or residency under program guidance. Scoring, retake policies, and whether the assessment is state-required versus program-required differ.
If your state lists edTPA, PPAT, or a local portfolio option, follow the state testing bulletin, not third-party summaries.
edTPA is an initial-teacher performance assessment. It is not CalAPA, PAL, or PASL. Principal candidates should use the SLLA page and the state principal checklist, not this classroom-exam overview.
Frequently asked questions
Is edTPA still required?
It depends on the state and year. Some jurisdictions have paused or replaced edTPA. Confirm with your preparation program and state board before registering.