Updated October 2026.

Texas holds every Educator Preparation Program accountable for how its candidates perform on certification exams. That’s why programs must confirm you’re ready before you test, and why some applicants need to pass a Pre-Admission Content Test (PACT) before they can be admitted.

The PACT gives applicants with a lower GPA, or too few college hours in the subject they want to teach, a clear way into a certification program.

When does Texas require the PACT?

Texas law requires applicants to pass a PACT for admission to an Educator Preparation Program if:

  • Your GPA is below 2.5, overall or in your last 60 credit hours, or
  • You have fewer than 12 semester credit hours in the subject of the certificate you’re seeking (15 hours for math or science above grade 7).

If you meet the 2.5 GPA and have the required credit hours, the law doesn’t require a PACT. Programs may set their own policies, though, so ask any program you’re considering whether it requires one.

At Teachworthy, the PACT is required when Texas requires it, and in some cases based on your certification area or previous test attempts. Your Program Advisor will tell you before you’re admitted.

The PACT tests subject knowledge only, with no teaching-practice questions. It shows you know enough of the subject to teach it, and it doesn’t grant any certification by itself. A passing PACT score, plus the training your program provides, sets you up to pass your TExES exams.

Where the PACT fits in the process

The PACT comes early: after you apply (free, no transcripts needed) and your Program Advisor reviews your coursework, but before you’re formally admitted. Once you’ve passed it, the path is the same as for every candidate: enroll, pass your TExES content exam, complete your training, and teach.

For every step, from application to Standard Certificate, see our step-by-step guide to getting certified as a Texas teacher.

Your Program Advisor is with you throughout: your advocate and your encouragement.

What makes Teachworthy different?

  • Affordable, with nothing big due until you’re hired. The application is free. Your Admission Fees are $495: the $195 Enrollment Fee plus the $300 Curriculum Fee (pay it up front or $50/month for six months). The $4,005 Internship Fee is paid monthly ($445 for nine months) once you’re teaching at full pay. See pricing.
  • Online and self-paced. Training is available 24/7, so you can prepare around your job and family.
  • Capturing Kids’ Hearts training is included. You’ll attend the live, 2-day Capturing Kids’ Hearts training at no additional cost, and learn how to build a self-managing classroom where every student is engaged. Capturing Kids’ Hearts trains more than 50,000 educators every year.
  • Personal support. A Program Advisor who is a former educator guides you from application to certification, and a Field Supervisor coaches you in your first year.