For graduate level students who want to be considered/hired as a Teaching Assistant and who self-identify as English NOT being their first language (this is not based on citizenship or country of origin), they must complete the SPEC (Spoken Proficiency of English in the Classroom) evaluation. The ESL Program’s role is to administer the test and to let the department know when the test results are updated on the ESL TA Certification tool on Self-Service. If you do not have access to the ESL TA Certification tool, please send an email to the ESL Program to request access. Please note that this evaluation is separate from the EPE test which is administered for ALL international students based on Admissions criteria.
The next SPEC test opportunity for first-time test takers will be offered in early January. The information below is to help guide you through the process.
SPEC testing dates deadlines
Wednesday, Dec. 17: Deadline to enter test takers into the ESL TA Certification app
Thursday, Jan. 1: Deadline to request the shortened SPEC test* (prior to Dec. 22 would be ideal)
If you believe any of your test takers may qualify for a shortened SPEC test, it is advised to submit the request in a timely manner.
SPEC Test Scheduling Open (via Microsoft Bookings, test taker’s responsibility)**
Monday, Dec. 22, 2025 – Friday, Jan. 2, 2026
**Test takers will be sent a memo via email the week of December 22nd with details on how to register for a Zoom appointment.
SPEC Testing Dates via Zoom (or in person upon request)
Monday, Jan. 5, 2026 – Friday, Jan. 9, 2026
More information about the test can be found on the TAPE website.
If there are any questions or if there is confusion about this process, please send an email to the ESL Program