ATCP Frequently Asked Questions
If your degree is from a foreign institution, you must check with the Alternative Teacher Certification Program for State Approved Foreign Credential Agencies. You will be required to submit your transcripts to one of the listed agencies first and then submit the translation/equivalency of your transcripts with your application. In addition, international students must check with the UTEP Graduate School Admissions Office to see if they must also take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). If required, you must meet the minimum score of 550 on the TOEFL.
What if I don’t have the required 2.50 or 2.75 GPA? May I still apply?
You may still apply to the program, however you will receive a letter stating how many additional credit hours you would need to take in order to raise your GPA to the required 2.50. You will not be allowed to begin the program until the GPA requirement is met.
What is the Texas Academic Skills Program (TASP) Test or its replacement, the Texas Higher Education Assessment (THEA) test?
The TASP Test was designed to provide information about the reading, mathematics, and writing skills of students entering Texas public colleges, universities, and educator preparation programs in public and private institutions. The content of the THEA Test is the same as the former TASP Test.
I have taken the GRE, can I substitute that score for the Texas Academic Skills Program (TASP) Test or its replacement, the Texas Higher Education Assessment (THEA) test?
If you have a combined score of 800, then you may substitute this test score for the TASP/THEA. Your GRE score must be less than 5 years old.
Can I be exempt from taking the TASP/THEA tests?
If you have a combined score of 800 on the GRE, and the score is less than 5 years old, it can be substituted for the TASP/THEA test.
What if I have a Master’s degree or graduated before the TASP/THEA was administered? Will I still be required to take the TASP/THEA?
You may substitute the GRE for the TASP/THEA.
Where and when can I take the TASP/THEA?
You may register at this website http://www.thea.nesinc.com/ to take the test.
What are the technological requirements for participating?
Click here for a listing of computer requirements.
What resources will faculty use in the program to provide students with experiences that are comparable to residency programs?
Class sizes will be limited and courses are designed to enhance interaction between faculty and students. Cohorts will work together throughout the program. Participants will be mentored and supervised by program personnel.
What will the program cost me?
Participating students are directly billed by the UTEP Registrar for courses. Additional program fees for advising, mentoring, supervising, and certificate test preparation are paid to the ATCP Online program. Details are being finalized, please work with your program advisor for the most recent and up to date information.
Can I get financial aid to pay for ATCP Online?
Contact financial aid through their webpage http://www.utep.edu/faidschl/ and follow the instructions. A special program for those who intend to teach in Texas is called the Teach for Texas program. For further information, visit the College for Texans website.