Teacher Training > TKT > FAQ
FAQ
Who administers the exam?
The exam is administered by Cambridge ESOL, who also run the language exams such as PET or FCE. In the Czech Republic AKCENT IH Prague is the only Cambridge accredited TKT centre.
Does the TKT exam count as a formal teaching qualification?
While it is already quite well known and recognised in many countries in the world, in the Czech Republic it is still a very new exam and we expect it will take some time before enough people know about it. AKCENT IH Prague is in communication with the Czech Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports about including the exam in the official list of temporary teaching qualifications (Mimoradna opatreni). As for private language schools we expect it to gain recognition fairly quickly. Overall, at this point, it very much depends on the individual employer.
Can my employer contribute towards the course and exam fee?
Certainly. If you work in a state institution, the money can come from the… fond. Both the exam and the course is accredited under the code… Either whole fee or only a part can be covered. In private institutions it will depend on the generosity of your employer. There is no general rule about what you “owe” your school if they pay your fee.
Does attending the course guarantee successful passing of the exam?
The course covers majority of the exam content. During the course we also ask participants to use the TKT coursebook for further consolidation work. How successful you are at the exam will, however, also depend on your previous knowledge and experience, level of English and attitude to study.
What are the grades and can I fail the exam?
You will receive a certificate for each of the three modules. The TKT is not a pass/fail test. Candidate’s performance is evaluated using the following criteria:
- limited knowledge of TKT content areas
- basic, but systematic knowledge of the TKT areas
- breadth and depth of knowledge of TKT content areas
- extensive knowledge of TKT areas
What level of English do I have to have?
A minimum level is PET (B1 Council of Europe).
Do I need to have teaching experience?
Teaching experience is not a requirement, though it certainly helps.
Will the course improve my English?
We expect so. Our past candidates all commented on the fact that after the course they felt much better equipped to using teaching literature and supplementary materials. They suggested that the course helped them to really understand a lot of the terminology and see what the terms mean in reality. They also mentioned how useful it was to speak only English during the seminars.
Will the course help me at my work?
We certainly hope so. While the sessions predominantly focus on preparing candidates for the exam, you will also learn many practical classroom activities and techniques.
When do I have to apply by?
If you want to apply for a course you should apply 2 weeks before the start of the course. As some dates are rather popular, it is advisable to register as soon as possible. However, last minute application can also be made.
To take the exam you need to apply and pay the exam fee 7 weeks before the exam date at the latest. (This is due to the fact that official registration with Cambridge needs to be done 6 weeks before the exam date.)
