You are on this page because you've never taken the SPEC Test before.

If you are currently enrolled in a TAPE course, the process will be a bit different. Click here for that process.

What is the SPEC Test?
Why am I taking the test?

This page provides information about what to expect as you sign up for and take the SPEC Test for the first time. The SPEC Test is administered for new test takers three times a year: in the summer, in the middle of the Fall Semester, and before the Spring Semester. You can see the 7 steps for taking the SPEC Test below.

Steps in the Process

  • You will be informed by your department if you need to take the SPEC Test.

    Step 1

    Test takers are identified to take the SPEC Test if they have been nominated to be a teaching assistant AND if they indicated on their admissions application that English is NOT their first language.

  • ESL Programs will reach out to you.

    Step 2

    You will receive two things from ESL Programs at this time: (1) testing information and (2) a Bookings link to schedule your individual testing appointment.

  • ESL Programs will add you to the SPEC Test ICON Course Site.

    Step 3

    This site will have information on the test and will also be where you receive your test results. For now, you only have to accept the invite to the course.

  • Prepare for the SPEC Test.

    Step 4

    You have signed up for a time to take the SPEC Test (see Step 2). ESL Programs has some guidance on how to prepare for the SPEC Test, including a practice test.

  • Take the SPEC Test with an ESL Test Administrator.

    Step 5

    You will already have scheduled a time for the test via Bookings. You just need to prepare before.

  • You will receive an e-mail once your test results are posted to the SPEC Test ICON Course Site.

    Step 6

    Results are posted 3-5 business days after the test (except for the July testing; that often takes an extra couple days). These results will be posted via the SPEC Test ICON Course Site. It is recommended that you review how the SPEC Test will be rated and how to access and interpret these ratings before taking the test.

  • Register for TAPE courses determined by your performance on the SPEC Test.

    Step 7

    Your results will tell you which TAPE courses you need to take in order to be a TA at the University. It is recommended that you register for these courses as soon as possible. 

    For TAPE:5330 TA Preparation: Orientation Program,
    you can find more information here.

    Finally, you can always review the TAPE policies if you have any questions about the SPEC Test results or registration. You can also reach out to ESL Programs (esl-program@uiowa.edu) for assistance.