About

The Virginia Department of Education has contracted with the Evaluation Systems group of Pearson to create and administer the Virginia Communication and Literacy Assessment® (VCLA™), which measures the communication and literacy skills necessary for Virginia educators. Learn more.

Who Is Required to Take the Test?

On April 8, 2024, the Governor of Virginia approved House Bill 731, which eliminates the Virginia Communication and Literacy Assessment (VCLA) as a requirement for initial licensure. This assessment requirement remains in effect through June 30, 2024. Effective July 1, 2024, individuals will no longer be required to pass the VCLA as a requirement for initial licensure.

After June 30, 2024, individuals who have been cited for the VCLA, and who have completed all other initial licensure requirements, may submit a request to update their evaluation and be issued a full, renewable license. Individuals who are employed in a Virginia educational agency should work directly with their employing agency’s human resources or licensure representative in submitting this request.

For information about VCLA testing requirements and exemption criteria, please refer to the Virginia Department of Education's guidance provided in the document Assessment Requirements for Virginia Licensure .

Test Information

Format

Computer-based test (CBT) and online-proctored test

• Reading subtest (091): approximately 40 multiple-choice items
• Writing subtest (092): approximately 40 multiple-choice items, 3 short-answer items, 1 written summary assignment, and 1 written composition assignment

Time

Computer-Based Testing
4 hours and 15 minutes total appointment time, for one or both subtests

• 15 minutes for CBT tutorial and nondisclosure agreement
• 4 hours testing time, for one or both subtests

Online Proctoring
Tutorial and nondisclosure agreement: 15 minutes

• Reading subtest only: 2 hours
• Writing subtest only: 3 hours
• Both subtests combined: 2 hours 30 minutes for the Writing subtest; 15 minute break; then 1 hour 30 minutes for the Reading subtest

Breaks

Computer-Based Testing
You may take restroom breaks during testing. Time taken for breaks is considered part of the available testing time.

Online Proctoring

• Reading subtest only: No breaks allowed
• Writing subtest only: No breaks allowed
• Both subtests combined: 15-minute break between subtests

Test Dates

Computer-Based Testing
By appointment year-round, Monday through Saturday (excluding some holidays).
Check appointment availability .

Online Proctoring
By appointment with an online proctor during one-week testing windows each month.

Test Sites

Computer-Based Testing
Located in Virginia and nationwide. Locate a test center .

Online Proctoring
You may test remotely, including from home. Review system and testing environment requirements .

Passing Score

Single subtest: 235
Both subtests: 470

Fees

Single subtest: $40
Both subtests: $80
Registration processing fee: $50
View payment information.

Score Reporting

Computer-Based Testing
Scores are released within 10 business days of testing.
Candidates will receive a receipt of completion at the conclusion of their test center appointment.

Online Proctoring
Scores are released within 10 business days of testing.
Examinees taking an online-proctored test will not receive a receipt of completion when their test ends.

Testing Policies

When you register, you must agree to abide by all testing rules and policies.
Read them now.

Prepare

View the tutorials and preparation materials available for this test.