At the top of this page, you will find a button that provides full access to the School Leaders Licensure Assessment (SLLA) practice test. Right below it, a comprehensive practice test is available, designed to engage and challenge you. These tests are invaluable tools for assessing your strengths, pinpointing weaknesses, and tailoring your study plan to meet your specific needs. To enhance your preparation, particularly in areas that require extra attention, we have developed specialized quizzes. These quizzes are thoughtfully designed to focus on specific aspects of the SLLA, ensuring a focused and effective study session.

School Leaders Licensure Assessment (SLLA) Domain Exams

The School Leaders Licensure Assessment (SLLA) is designed to evaluate the skills and knowledge necessary for entry-level school leaders. The test, referred to by its code 6990, is comprehensive and covers a range of leadership domains crucial for effective school administration. 

Here’s a breakdown of the exam structure, including the different domains it assesses:

Domain 1: Strategic Leadership

  • Number of Questions: 20
  • Exam Focus: Focuses on the candidate’s ability to define a school’s vision and mission that promotes the success of all students by implementing and stewarding policies and procedures that foster a safe and efficient learning environment.

Welcome to your SLLA Domain 1: Strategic Leadership

Domain 2: Instructional Leadership

  • Number of Questions: 27
  • Exam Focus: Assesses the ability to promote the academic success and well-being of each student by advocating, nurturing, and sustaining a school culture and instructional program conducive to student learning.

Welcome to your SLLA Domain 2: Instructional Leadership

Domain 3: Climate and Cultural Leadership

  • Number of Questions: 22
  • Exam Focus: Pertains to the development of a positive school culture that promotes student engagement and a comfortable and productive learning environment.

Welcome to your SLLA Domain 3: Climate and Cultural Leadership

Domain 4: Ethical Leadership

  • Number of Questions: 19
  • Exam Focus: Evaluates the integrity, fairness, and ethics of a candidate in making decisions that ensure a respectful educational environment.

Welcome to your SLLA Domain 4: Ethical Leadership

Domain 5: Organizational Leadership

  • Number of Questions: 16
  • Exam Focus: Involves managing school operations and resources to promote a safe, efficient, and effective learning environment.

Welcome to your SLLA Domain 5: Organizational Leadership

Domain 6: Community Engagement Leadership

  • Number of Questions: 16
  • Exam Focus: Focuses on collaborating with families and other community members, responding to diverse community interests and needs, and mobilizing community resources.

Welcome to your SLLA Domain 6: Community Engagement Leadership

Domain 7: Analysis Constructed Response

  • Number of Questions: 4
  • Exam Focus: Tests the ability to analyze, interpret, and propose solutions to educational scenarios. This section is particularly significant as it accounts for a considerable portion of the exam in terms of scoring, though it has fewer questions.

Welcome to your SLLA Domain 7: Analysis Constructed Response

Exam Domain# of QuestionsFocus
Strategic Leadership20Focuses on the candidate’s ability to define a school’s vision and mission that promotes the success of all students by implementing and stewarding policies and procedures that foster a safe and efficient learning environment.
Instructional Leadership27Assesses the ability to promote the academic success and well-being of each student by advocating, nurturing, and sustaining a school culture and instructional program conducive to student learning.
Climate and Cultural Leadership22Pertains to the development of a positive school culture that promotes student engagement and a comfortable and productive learning environment.
Ethical Leadership19Evaluates the integrity, fairness, and ethics of a candidate in making decisions that ensure a respectful educational environment.
Organizational Leadership16Involves managing school operations and resources to promote a safe, efficient, and effective learning environment.
Community Engagement Leadership16Focuses on collaborating with families and other community members, responding to diverse community interests and needs, and mobilizing community resources.
Analysis Constructed Response4Tests the ability to analyze, interpret, and propose solutions to educational scenarios.

The exam is structured to reflect the complexity and scope of the roles envisioned for school leaders, and it aligns with the Professional Standards for Educational Leaders (PSEL). Test takers are given four hours to complete the assessment, which comprises both selected-response (multiple-choice) questions and constructed-response (essay) items.

School Leaders Licensure Assessment (SLLA) Exam Breakdown

The School Leaders Licensure Assessment (SLLA) Exam, also known as the SLLA 6990, is a certification test designed for aspiring school leaders such as principals and assistant principals. It is aligned with the Professional Standards for Educational Leaders (PSEL), which focus on various aspects of educational leadership, including ethics, community engagement, and organizational management.

Overview

The SLLA Exam is a critical step for educators aiming to transition into leadership roles like principalships. It is designed to assess a candidate’s readiness for school leadership based on the Professional Standards for Educational Leaders (PSEL).

Exam Details:

  • Structure: The SLLA consists of 120 selected-response questions and 4 constructed-response items. The questions cover a wide range of topics essential to effective school leadership.
  • Duration: 4 hours.
  • Cost: $425 per attempt.

Key Competencies Tested:

  • Vision and Goals: Setting and implementing a clear vision for the educational community.
  • Teaching and Learning: Improving the teaching environment and learning outcomes.
  • Managing Organizational Systems: Overseeing the school’s administrative and operational functions.
  • Community Collaboration: Engaging with community partners and families to support student success.
  • Ethics and Integrity: Upholding ethical standards and modeling principled behavior.

Test Preparation Resources:

  • ETS Official Resources: They provide detailed study guides, practice tests, and preparation tips specifically designed for the SLLA exam.
  • Supplementary Courses and Guides: Various platforms offer additional study materials like audio courses, webinars, and tailored study plans. Websites like Kathleen Jasper’s and Mometrix provide extensive guides and courses.

Registration and Scoring:

  • Registration: Candidates can register online or by mail, and choose to take the test either online or at a physical testing center.
  • Scoring: The passing score varies by state, reflecting different licensure requirements. Immediate results are available for multiple-choice questions, while essays may take longer to be scored.

Why It Matters:

Passing the SLLA is essential for educators who aspire to lead schools and make a significant impact on educational policy and practice in their communities.

This concise structure provides a clearer view of what the SLLA entails and how potential candidates can best prepare for success.

How to Become SLLA

To become certified through the School Leaders Licensure Assessment (SLLA), you need to follow several steps:

  • Prepare for the Test: Start by accessing various preparation resources to understand the test format and content. Educational Testing Service (ETS) provides comprehensive resources such as study companions, interactive practice tests, and detailed guides. 
  • Understand State Requirements: Each state has specific requirements for the SLLA test, including the qualifying scores needed for licensure. It’s crucial to check the requirements for your state before you begin your preparation​.
  • Register for the Test: You can register for the SLLA test online, by phone, or by mail through the ETS website. Online registration is the fastest method. Ensure that your registration details match your ID to avoid any issues on the test day. The fee for the SLLA test is $425. Keep in mind that if you need to reschedule or cancel your test, you should do so at least three days before your test date to avoid losing your fee or to be eligible for a partial refund​.
  • Test Day and Scoring: On the day of the test, ensure you bring the appropriate ID and arrive on time. The test consists of selected-response and constructed-response items and takes approximately four hours to complete. Understanding the scoring system and what scores are needed to pass is also essential​​.

Our Experience Teaching SLLA Candidates To Pass The Exam

At Career Employer, the creation of our School Leaders Licensure Assessment (SLLA) practice tests has been a remarkable journey, filled with notable achievements and challenges. The development process was influenced by the exam’s extensive range of subjects and the distinctive needs of our students.

We have meticulously tailored every facet of our approach to offer thorough preparation for students eager to succeed on the exam. Our commitment to delivering a well-rounded educational experience is evident in the diversity and depth of our practice materials, underscoring our dedication to fostering student success.

Teaching the School Leaders Licensure Assessment (SLLA) from a lecturer’s perspective involves a multifaceted approach to equipping future school leaders with essential knowledge and skills. The SLLA test evaluates competencies across multiple leadership domains necessary for effective school administration.

Key Focus Areas of the SLLA:

  • Strategic Leadership: Involves vision and goal setting, and the use of data for decision-making​.
  • Instructional Leadership: Focuses on developing educational quality through curriculum and professional development.
  • Organizational Leadership: Pertains to operational management and resource allocation to support educational objectives​.
  • Community Engagement: Includes building relationships with families and the community to enhance student learning and well-being.

Teaching Strategies:

  • Case Studies and Scenario Analysis: These methods help students apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations, preparing them for real-world challenges they will face as school leaders.
  • Role-playing Exercises: Such activities simulate school leadership scenarios, allowing students to practice decision-making and problem-solving skills in a controlled environment.

Preparation Resources:

  • Study Guides and Practice Tests: Essential tools provided by ETS include a detailed study companion and full-length interactive practice tests that mimic the exam environment, helping students familiarize themselves with the test format and types of questions​​.
  • Instructional Videos: These are beneficial for understanding complex topics and exam strategies. ETS provides videos that cover various aspects of the test preparation process​.

Administrative Guidance:

  • Lecturers also guide students through the registration process, explaining state-specific requirements and the steps necessary to sit for the exam, as detailed on the ETS website.

For effective teaching and learning outcomes, it’s crucial for lecturers to blend content mastery with strategic exam preparation, utilizing available resources to enhance student readiness for the SLLA certification.

At Career Employer, our team has diligently developed the School Leaders Licensure Assessment (SLLA) certification practice test, leveraging their extensive knowledge and experience in SLLA exam preparation. Their profound understanding has successfully guided over 1000 school leaders to excel in the official SLLA certification exam.

Our team consists of highly skilled school leaders each with more than ten years of specialized experience in school leaderrship. This substantial expertise ensures that our practice materials are not only rooted in professional insights but also highly effective in facilitating exam success.

Effective Study Strategies and Methods

To prepare effectively for the School Leaders Licensure Assessment (SLLA) exam, there are several strategies and resources that can enhance your study process:

  • Structured Study Plans: Utilizing a detailed study guide can help organize your preparation and ensure you cover all necessary content. The ETS offers a comprehensive study plan that includes sample test questions and a breakdown of the exam sections, which is essential for understanding the test structure and requirements​.
  • Practice Tests: Engaging with practice tests is one of the most effective ways to prepare for the SLLA. This helps familiarize you with the exam format and types of questions you will encounter. ETS provides an interactive practice test that simulates the actual test environment, offering a valuable tool for candidates to assess their readiness​. Additionally, Mometrix offers free practice tests and study guides, which include detailed answer explanations and are designed to help you understand the concepts behind each question​.
  • Flashcards: Flashcards can be a great way to memorize and recall important information quickly. Mometrix provides specific SLLA flashcards that break down complex subjects into easily understandable concepts, which can be particularly helpful for visual learners or those needing quick reviews before the test.
  • Preparatory Courses: If self-study isn’t sufficient, consider enrolling in preparatory courses. These courses often include a comprehensive curriculum and sometimes offer administrative internships and other professional experiences that align with the national standards for administrators​.
  • Online Forums and Discussions: Participating in online forums and discussion groups can provide insights from other candidates and professionals who have taken the SLLA. These communities can offer tips, share experiences, and provide support during your preparation phase.
  • Books and Study Guides: Various books and study guides are tailored to the SLLA, such as those from Mometrix, which include key strategies like effective guessing, pacing, and prioritizing study areas. They also offer comprehensive reviews of the exam’s content areas, including leadership models, communication strategies, and policy implementation​.

Cost

ItemDescriptionCost
Exam FeeRegistration fee for the SLLA exam$425
Preparation Material90-day subscription for digital practice tests$19.95
Preparation Course15-hour virtual prep sessions for principal certification in New JerseyVaries (Contact provider)

The total cost of the School Leaders Licensure Assessment (SLLA) board certification exam and associated expenses can be categorized into exam fees, preparation materials, and optional preparation courses.

  • Exam Fees: The SLLA exam fee itself is $425. This fee covers the cost of both portions of the exam​​.
  • Preparation Materials: Preparation materials include practice tests and study guides. For instance, a 90-day subscription for a digital practice test product is priced at $19.95. This product offers a simulated test environment with authentic test questions similar to what you might encounter on the exam day​.
  • Preparation Courses: Optional preparation courses vary in price depending on the provider. For example, in New Jersey, there are 15-hour series of prep sessions offered that cover the structure, content, and format of the SLLA exam. These sessions are designed to help participants familiarize themselves with the test materials and scoring criteria​​. The cost of these courses can vary, so it is recommended to check with local providers or educational organizations that offer these training sessions.

Other possible costs could include additional study materials or secondary practice tests, travel expenses if the test center is far, and possibly rescheduling or retake fees if needed. It’s also worth checking if there are any state-specific requirements that might add to the overall cost.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding fees and requirements, visiting the official ETS website or contacting local educational authorities would be beneficial.

Reliable Study Materials and Resources

Preparing for the School Leaders Licensure Assessment (SLLA) certification exam can be streamlined with the help of several excellent online resources:

  1. ETS Official Resources: The Educational Testing Service (ETS) offers a comprehensive suite of study materials for the SLLA exam, including a study companion in PDF format, a study plan template, informative videos, and an interactive practice test that simulates the exam environment. This practice test is particularly useful as it includes authentic test questions and provides detailed explanations for the answers. 
  2. Mometrix Test Preparation: Mometrix offers a detailed study guide and flashcards that cover crucial concepts and strategies for the SLLA exam. The guide includes techniques such as effective pacing, answer elimination, and understanding complex question structures. They also offer free practice tests and a series of study tips to improve test-taking strategies.
  3. Kathleen Jasper’s NavaED: This platform provides a digital SLLA 6990 study guide that is known for its clarity and depth, covering key areas of the exam content. Additionally, Jasper’s website includes webinars and a blog that discuss various aspects of the exam and offer guidance on how to tackle different types of questions effectively. 
  4. Study.com: This educational platform provides a range of learning tools, including practice tests and a study guide that highlights the key content areas of the SLLA exam. Their resources are complemented by instructional videos and an option for personalized tutoring. 
  5. ETS Practice Test Subscription: For a more immersive preparation experience, ETS offers a 90-day subscription to their interactive practice tests. This includes a set of practice questions identical to those on the official exam and allows you to practice in a timed setting to simulate test day conditions. 

By utilizing these resources, you can better prepare for the SLLA exam and increase your chances of success. Each resource offers unique tools and insights, so consider which ones align best with your study habits and exam preparation needs.

Tips for Exam Day

Preparing effectively for the School Leaders Licensure Assessment (SLLA) can significantly increase your chances of success. Here are some crucial tips for exam day and general preparation strategies based on resources and forums:

Exam Day Tips

  • Arrive Early: Ensure you arrive at the test center at least 30 minutes before your appointment to handle registration and settle in. If you’re taking the test remotely, check in about 30 minutes early to sort out any technical issues with your proctor​.
  • Required ID: Remember to bring a valid government-issued photo ID to the test center. This will be checked during your admission process​​.
  • Personal Belongings: At a test center, personal items like cell phones, bags, and notes must be stored in a locker. For an online test, you’ll need to clear your workspace and may be asked to use your webcam to show that your environment complies with test regulations​​.
  • Understanding Test Format: Familiarize yourself with the test’s format, which includes both selected-response questions and constructed-response tasks. The selected-response section tests your knowledge across various leadership categories, while the constructed-response tasks require you to write essays based on scenarios​.

Preparation Strategies

  • Study Resources: Utilize study guides and online courses that provide comprehensive overviews of the test content. Resources like Kathleen Jasper’s study programs or Mometrix’s guides are highly recommended for structured learning and practice​.
  • Practice Tests: Engage with practice tests to familiarize yourself with the exam’s format and timing. This also helps in identifying areas where you might need more study​.
  • Join Study Groups: Participate in study groups, such as those found on platforms like Facebook, which can offer support and insights from peers who are also preparing for the exam​​.
  • Regulatory Requirements: Check the specific licensure requirements for your state as these can vary, and ensure that your preparation aligns with these requirements​.
  • Test Taking Strategies: Learn effective test-taking strategies that can help you manage time and approach questions logically. Understanding how to interpret complex data and apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios is crucial​ ​.

By incorporating these strategies and resources, you can approach your exam day with confidence. Remember, thorough preparation and understanding of the exam structure are key to performing well on the SLLA.

Post-Exam: Next Steps

After completing the School Leaders Licensure Assessment (SLLA), there are several strategic steps you can take to capitalize on your efforts and prepare for what comes next.

  1. Review and Understand Your Scores: First, ensure you thoroughly understand your test results. The scores will help you identify areas of strength and those that might need further improvement. The School Leadership Series website offers detailed guidance on how to interpret your scores and what they mean for your licensure​.
  2. Prepare for Retakes if Necessary: If your scores are not as high as you hoped, consider preparing for a retake. The SLLA is known for its comprehensive and challenging nature, covering a wide range of topics relevant to school leadership. Many candidates do not pass on their first attempt due to the exam’s depth and the critical thinking required​. Accessing resources like the ETS’s official preparation materials, including study guides and practice tests, can be invaluable for your preparation​.
  3. Continuous Learning and Professional Development: Whether you pass or are preparing for a retake, continuing your professional development is crucial. Engaging with online courses, webinars, and audio courses specifically designed for the SLLA can provide ongoing learning opportunities. These resources often cover content categories and provide scenarios that enhance your understanding and application of leadership principles.
  4. Engage with the Educational Community: Join forums and discussions related to school leadership. This networking can provide support, insights, and updates on educational leadership that can be crucial for both test preparation and professional growth.
  5. Check State-specific Requirements: It’s important to confirm the specific licensure requirements in your state as they can vary. This might include additional exams or credentials needed to secure a position as a school leader. The ETS website is a useful resource for this information​.
  6. Plan Your Career Path: Once you’ve passed the SLLA, start planning your next career steps. This could involve applying for leadership positions, such as assistant principal roles, or furthering your education in educational administration or leadership fields.

References

  1. Educational Testing Service. “SLLA Test Preparation.” ETS, 2023, https://www.ets.org/sls/resources/slla-test-prep.html.
  2. Jasper, Kathleen. “The SLLA 6990: Overview of the Exam.” Kathleen Jasper, 2023, https://kathleenjasper.com/blogs/overview/the-slla-6990-overview-of-the-exam.
  3. “SLLA Test.” Mometrix Test Preparation, 2023, https://www.mometrix.com/academy/slla-test/.
  4. Jasper, Kathleen. Kathleen Jasper, 2023, https://kathleenjasper.com/.
  5. Mometrix Test Preparation. Mometrix, 2023, https://www.mometrix.com/.
  6. Educational Testing Service. “SLLA Resources.” ETS, 2023, https://www.ets.org/sls/resources.html.
  7. Educational Testing Service. “School Leaders Licensure Assessment (SLLA).” ETS, 2023, https://www.ets.org/sls.html.
  8. Educational Testing Service. “How to Register for the SLLA.” ETS, 2023, https://www.ets.org/sls/register/how-to-register.html.
  9. Jasper, Kathleen. “How to Pass the SLLA 6990.” Kathleen Jasper, 2023, https://kathleenjasper.com/blogs/news/how-to-pass-the-slla-6990.
  10. Educational Testing Service. “SLLA Test Prep Product.” ETS, 2023, https://pepreg.ets.org/pepreg-web/public/testPrepStore/productDetails/5195567200?_p=SLS.
  11. “SLLA Study Guide.” Mometrix Test Preparation, 2023, https://www.mometrix.com/studyguides/slla/.
  12. “SLLA Test.” Practice Test Geeks, 2023, https://practicetestgeeks.com/slla-test/.
  13. Educational Testing Service. “SLLA Information Bulletin.” ETS, 2023, https://www.ets.org/content/dam/ets-org/pdfs/sls/sls-information-bulletin.pdf.
  14. New Jersey Principals and Supervisors Association. “SLLA and SSA Prep.” NJPSA, 2023, https://njpsa.org/slla-and-ssa-prep/.
  15. Study.com. Study.com, 2023, https://study.com/.
  16. Educational Testing Service. “SLLA Test Prep Product Details.” ETS, 2023, https://pepreg.ets.org/pepreg-web/public/testPrepStore/productDetails/5195567200.
  17. “SLLA.” 4Tests, 2023, https://www.4tests.com/slla.
  18. Jasper, Kathleen. “School Leaders Licensure Assessment (SLLA) 6990.” Kathleen Jasper, 2023, https://kathleenjasper.com/pages/school-leaders-licensure-assessment-slla-6990.
  19. “SLLA 6990 Prep Test Practice.” SLLA 6990 Prep, 2023, https://slla6990prep.com/test-practice/.
  20. “How to Register and Prepare for the SLLA Test.” YouTube, uploaded by Educational Testing Service, 15 Oct 2023, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XUYF–kkQA0.
  21. Educational Testing Service. “School Leaders Licensure Assessment.” ETS, 2023, https://www.ets.org/sls.
  22. “SLLA Test.” Reddit, posted by user on 20 Nov 2023, https://www.reddit.com/r/Teachers/comments/ywycwr/slla_test/.
  23. “Tips for Passing the SLLA 6990.” YouTube, uploaded by user, 8 Dec 2023, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HpdeLm0ciL4.

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