Test Approval Requirements – for Completers of the EPP
Sul Ross State University – Educator Preparation Program (EPP)
Purpose
This policy outlines the conditions under which graduates (i.e., Completers or Finishers) of the SRSU Educator Preparation Program (EPP) may receive approval to take Texas educator certification examinations, in alignment with Texas Administrative Code (TAC) §228.31(e).
Policy Overview
In accordance with TAC §228.31(e), the EPP may grant test approval to candidates when they have been determined ready or when they have completed the program as EPP completers. The rule also permits an EPP to require additional coursework and/or training before granting test approval under certain circumstances, such as:
- When standards or required examinations have changed since the candidate completed the program; or
- When a candidate returns one or more years following the academic year of completion of all program requirements.
Institutional Policy
1. How to Submit a Request
Graduates of the Educator Preparation Program (EPP) may request test approval by:
- Applying for test approval on the Education Website page under the section “Former SRSU students or SRSU students not currently enrolled”
- Students who need a third or subsequent attempt on either a Content Exam or the PPR exam should email edcertification@sulross.edu.
- Requests must include the candidate’s full name, year of graduation, any recent official Pearson score reports (if applicable), and documentation of test preparation completed within the past 90 days (ex. 240 Tutoring).
2. Review and Determination by the Certification Office
All requests for test approval from EPP graduates will be reviewed by the Certification Office in consultation with the Teacher Education Program Coordinator which maintains sole discretion to determine whether a graduate is sufficiently prepared to receive approval for any certification examination.
3. Possible Additional Requirements
Consistent with TAC §228.31(e), the Certification Office may require graduates to complete supplemental coursework, training, review modules, or other professional preparation activities before granting test approval. This may occur when:
- The candidate has been away from the program for an extended period (e.g., one or more years);
- Exam frameworks or state standards have been updated; or
- Additional preparation is deemed necessary to ensure readiness.
4. Documentation and Communication
Graduates will be notified in writing of any additional requirements, timelines, or conditions for test approval.
5. Final Authority
The Certification Office reserves full authority to approve, deny, or defer test‑approval requests based on professional judgment, state requirements, and program standards.
Implementation
These updated requirements are effective immediately and apply to all current and future candidates seeking test approval.
*Any change to this policy must be approved by the Dean of the College of Education in consultation with the Coordinator for the Teacher Education Program and the Certification Office.