Licensure Exam for Teachers (LET) Guide: Requirements and Exam Coverage

The Licensure Exam for Teachers (LET) is one of the most important professional board examinations in the Philippines. It serves as the gateway for aspiring educators to earn their Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) license and legally teach in public or private schools. Whether you are a fresh graduate, a career shifter, or a professional seeking advancement, understanding the LET structure, requirements, and preparation strategies is essential for success.

This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know—coverage, eligibility, application process, scoring, preparation tips, and what to expect after passing the LET.

What Is the LET?

The Licensure Exam for Teachers (LET) is administered by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) through the Board for Professional Teachers. It is held several times a year in major testing centers nationwide.

The purpose of the LET is to assess the competence of teacher education graduates and ensure they meet the professional standards required by the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).

The LET is divided into two categories:

• Elementary Level

• Secondary Level

Each level has distinct coverage and eligibility requirements.

Who Is Eligible to Take the LET?

Eligibility depends on the teaching level you plan to apply for.

Elementary Level Eligibility

You may take the LET (Elementary) if you meet any of the following:

• You are a graduate of a Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEEd).

• You are a graduate of an equivalent degree with at least 18 units of Professional Education (ProfEd).

Secondary Level Eligibility

You may take the LET (Secondary) if you meet any of the following:

• You are a graduate of a Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSEd) with a major.

• You have a bachelor’s degree in a field related to the subject you want to teach plus 18 units of Professional Education.

• You are a Bachelor of Music, Bachelor of Fine Arts, B.S. Agriculture, B.S. Engineering, or similar degree holder with earned Professional Education units.

Special rules apply for:

• Technical–Vocational Teachers, who may take the LET with NC-II or higher and pedagogical training.

• Foreign graduates, who must submit additional documents such as curriculum evaluation.

LET Exam Coverage

The LET consists of three major components. Each component varies slightly depending on the teaching level.

For Elementary Level

The exam has three main subjects:

1. General Education (GenEd)

   • Filipino

   • English

   • Mathematics

   • Science

   • Social Studies

2. Professional Education (ProfEd)

   • Principles of Teaching

   • Curriculum Development

   • Educational Technology

   • Assessment of Learning

   • Child and Adolescent Development

   • Facilitating Learning

   • Classroom Management

3. Specialization (for BEEd majors, if applicable)

   • Early Childhood Education

   • Special Education

   • Content specialization (depending on major)

For Secondary Level

Secondary LET includes three components:

1. General Education (GenEd)
   Same as Elementary.

2. Professional Education (ProfEd)
   Same as Elementary.

3. Specialization/Major Subject
   Depending on the applicant’s program, major subjects include:

   • English

   • Mathematics

   • Filipino

   • Science

   • Social Studies

   • MAPEH

   • TLE

   • Values Education

   • Agriculture and Fishery Arts

   • Technology and Livelihood Education

Each specialization has a detailed, CHED-approved coverage.

LET Exam Format and Scoring

PRC uses a multiple-choice format for all LET subjects.

Scoring System

To pass the LET:

• Elementary Level requires a general average of 75% with no rating below 50% in any subject.

• Secondary Level requires the same passing criteria.

Retake Policy

If you fail:

• You may retake the exam as many times as needed.

• Consistent failures may require a refresher course depending on PRC rules.

How to Apply for the LET

Application is done through the PRC Licensure Examination and Registration Information System (LERIS).

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Create a PRC LERIS Account

Visit the official PRC website and create an account. Upload required documents, including:

• 2×2 ID photo with a name tag

• Valid ID

• Personal details

Step 2: Complete the Online Profile

Fill out educational background accurately. Errors may delay approval.

Step 3: Choose LET Schedule and Testing Center

PRC opens exam slots months before the test date. Early registration is recommended.

Step 4: Pay the Examination Fee

Payment methods:

• PRC Cashier

• Credit/debit card

• Online banking

• Over-the-counter at partner banks

• GCash or PayMaya

Step 5: Bring Required Documents for Onsite Verification

Typical requirements include:

• Original and photocopy of transcript of records (TOR)

• Birth certificate

• Marriage certificate for married women

• Proof of Professional Education units (if required)

Step 6: Print Notice of Admission (NOA)

This serves as your official exam permit.

LET Exam Day Reminders

To avoid problems on testing day, follow these rules:

What to Bring

• Notice of Admission (NOA)

• Valid ID

• Black ballpen (PRC strictly prohibits pencils)

• Water and snacks

• Jacket or sweater (optional)

Prohibited Items

• Smart devices (phones, tablets, smartwatches)

• Calculators (unless PRC allows for specific majors)

• Bags inside the exam hall (depending on venue rules)

• Cheat sheets

Exam-Day Behavior

• Arrive at least 1–2 hours early.

• Follow seating assignments.

• Respect examination proper decorum.

LET Preparation Strategies

Passing the LET requires commitment, strategy, and proper study planning. Below are recommended approaches:

1. Understand the Coverage Thoroughly

Review the PRC-provided syllabus. Prioritize heavily weighted areas.

2. Use LET Review Books and Review Centers

Popular LET reviewers include:

• Prof. Briones GenEd reviewer

• Carl Balita LET reviewers

• BEEd/BSEd specialized books

Review centers provide structured guidance, mock exams, and accountability.

3. Take Practice Tests

Simulate exam conditions. Regular mock exams help strengthen stamina and time management.

4. Build a Study Schedule

Allocate:

• 2–3 hours daily for full-time review

• 4–6 months preparation for first-time takers

5. Strengthen Weak Areas

Track scores from mock exams. Prioritize subjects with low performance.

6. Join Study Groups and Online Forums

Facebook groups, Reddit communities, and teacher networks can help share tips and materials.

7. Maintain Your Physical and Mental Health

Sleep properly, drink water, and avoid burnout before the exam.

After Passing the LET

Once PRC releases results, successful examinees must complete the following steps:

Step 1: Online Registration for Oath Taking

Schedule and confirm your oath-taking ceremony via LERIS.

Step 2: Attend the Oath Taking

This is required before registration.

Step 3: Apply for PRC ID and Certificate of Registration

You will receive:

• Professional Teacher PRC ID

• Certificate of Registration

Step 4: Start Applying for Teaching Jobs

Public and private schools begin hiring licensed teachers immediately after exam results.

Tips for Newly Licensed Professional Teachers

1. Consider Teaching Opportunities Beyond DepEd

• Private schools

• International schools

• ESL academies

• Online teaching platforms

• NGO education programs

2. Prepare for DepEd Ranking (if applying for public schools)

Requirements include:

• PRC license

• TOR

• Certificates of training

• Demo teaching

• Interview

3. Continue Professional Growth

• Earn a Master’s degree

• Attend CPD seminars

• Specialize in SPED, ECE, or subject areas

Final Thoughts

The Licensure Exam for Teachers (LET) is a crucial step for anyone who dreams of becoming a professional educator in the Philippines. While the exam is challenging, success is within reach through disciplined preparation, understanding the exam structure, and following the right study strategies.

With dedication and the right resources, you can pass the LET and begin a fulfilling career shaping the future of learners across the country.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Who is eligible to take the Licensure Exam for Teachers (LET)?

You are eligible to take the LET if you are a graduate of a teacher education program or a related degree with the required number of Professional Education units. For the Elementary Level, typical qualifiers are graduates of Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEEd) or equivalent programs with at least 18 units in Professional Education. For the Secondary Level, graduates of Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSEd) or those with a bachelor’s degree in a specific field (such as Mathematics, English, Science, or Social Studies) and at least 18 units of Professional Education may apply. Some specialized degrees, like engineering, agriculture, fine arts, or music, may also qualify if the graduate earns the required education units.

What is the difference between the Elementary and Secondary LET?

The main difference lies in the coverage and the focus of the specialization subjects. Both levels include General Education and Professional Education components. However, the Elementary LET is designed for those who will teach in elementary schools and sometimes includes specialization related to early childhood or basic subject integration. The Secondary LET, on the other hand, includes a major or specialization subject aligned with the applicant’s undergraduate degree, such as English, Mathematics, Science, Filipino, Social Studies, MAPEH, TLE, or Values Education. The exam questions for secondary majors are more advanced and subject-specific compared to the more general focus for elementary.

What subjects are covered in the LET?

The LET consists of three primary components: General Education (GenEd), Professional Education (ProfEd), and Specialization. General Education covers core subjects such as Filipino, English, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. Professional Education includes topics like principles of teaching, curriculum development, educational assessment, educational technology, child and adolescent development, classroom management, and facilitating learning. The Specialization part focuses on the major field of study for secondary takers (for example, English, Mathematics, Science, or MAPEH) and on content areas relevant to the elementary curriculum and specific majors for elementary takers. The exact coverage is based on CHED and PRC syllabi.

How is the LET scored and what is the passing rate?

The LET is scored using a weighted percentage system based on your performance in the different components. All test questions are in multiple-choice format. To pass the LET, you need a general average of at least 75 percent with no rating below 50 percent in any of the test components. This rule applies to both Elementary and Secondary levels. If your average is below 75 percent or you have a score lower than 50 percent in one or more subjects, you will be considered to have failed the exam and will need to retake it in a future schedule.

What is the exam format of the LET?

The LET is entirely multiple-choice, usually administered in several sessions throughout the day. Test questions are grouped according to General Education, Professional Education, and Specialization. The number of questions and time allocation may vary by component, but examinees should expect a full-day testing experience. Because of the multiple-choice format, success depends not only on content knowledge but also on test-taking skills such as time management, careful reading of questions, and elimination of obviously incorrect options.

How do I apply for the LET through PRC?

Application is done online through the PRC Licensure Examination and Registration Information System (LERIS). You start by creating an account on the PRC website and completing your online profile, including personal information, educational background, and photo upload following PRC’s guidelines. After your profile is approved, you choose the LET schedule and testing center, then proceed to payment via PRC cashier, online banking, e-wallets, or partner payment channels. You must also submit required documents such as your transcript of records (with remarks for LET), birth certificate, marriage certificate for married women, and proof of Professional Education units if needed. Once verified, you can print your Notice of Admission (NOA), which you must bring on exam day.

What should I bring on the day of the LET?

On exam day, you should bring your Notice of Admission (NOA), a valid government-issued ID, and black ballpens (PRC often specifies black ink). You may also bring water and light snacks, as well as a jacket or sweater in case the room is cold. Make sure to follow PRC rules about prohibited items: electronic devices, calculators (unless officially allowed for certain majors), reference materials, and any form of cheat sheets are usually banned. Arrive at the testing venue at least one to two hours before the scheduled time to allow for security checks, orientation, and seating arrangements.

How long should I prepare for the LET?

The ideal preparation time depends on your background, but many successful examinees recommend around three to six months of consistent review. If you are a fresh graduate with strong recall of your academic subjects, three months of focused preparation may be enough. If you have been out of school for several years or are a career shifter, you may need a longer review period. A good strategy is to create a weekly study plan that allocates time for General Education, Professional Education, and your specialization, and to use practice tests to track progress. Joining a review center can provide structure, but self-study with quality reviewers and online resources can also be effective if you are disciplined.

Do I need to enroll in a review center to pass the LET?

Enrolling in a review center is not mandatory, but it can be helpful for many examinees. Review centers provide structured schedules, updated materials, lectures from experienced instructors, and regular mock examinations. These can boost confidence and help you stay on track. However, passing the LET ultimately depends on your personal effort and study habits. If you cannot join a review center, you can still pass by using reputable LET reviewers, online practice tests, and study groups. The key is to be honest about your strengths and weaknesses and to commit to a consistent and realistic review routine.

What happens if I fail the LET?

If you fail the LET, you are allowed to retake the exam in a future schedule. There is no strict limit on how many times you can retake; however, PRC may require refresher courses or additional academic units after multiple failures or after a long gap since your last exam, depending on existing regulations. Instead of feeling discouraged, treat a failed attempt as feedback. Review your scores if available, identify which components you struggled with (GenEd, ProfEd, or Specialization), and adjust your preparation strategy. Many licensed professional teachers did not pass on their first try but succeeded on their second or third attempt through improved planning and focused review.

What should I do after I pass the LET?

After passing the LET, your next steps include attending the PRC oath-taking ceremony and applying for your Professional Teacher license. Registration is usually done through LERIS, where you choose an oath-taking schedule and process your initial registration. Once you receive your PRC ID and Certificate of Registration, you can begin applying for teaching positions. You may choose to work in public schools (through the DepEd hiring and ranking process), private schools, ESL centers, or international and online teaching platforms. It is also a good time to plan your long-term professional growth by considering graduate studies, specialized training, and continuous professional development activities.

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