LANTITE

Literacy and Numeracy Test for Initial Teacher Education

What is the LANTITE?

The LANTITE is a computer-based test designed to assess your personal literacy and numeracy skills, ensuring you are within the top 30% of the Australian adult population. All students aspiring to become a primary or secondary teacher must pass this test. You do not need to complete this test if you are enrolled in an early childhood only course. Students enrolled in a combined primary and early childhood course must attempt LANTITE. It is mandated by the Australian Government and administered by the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER).

The literacy test measures reading and technical writing skills (syntax, grammar, spelling, word usage, and text organisation).

The numeracy test covers number and algebra, measurement and geometry, and statistics and probability.

Each test:

  • Takes up to 2 hours
  • Includes 65 questions (multiple-choice and short-answer)
  • Does not include extended writing tasks

Once you have passed the LANTITE, you do not need to take it again.

You have unlimited attempts. Test dates, fees, and preparation information are available on the ACER website.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I have to pass the literacy and numeracy tests?

Yes. The LANTITE is compulsory for all Initial Teacher Education (ITE) students in Australia. You must pass both components to:

  • Attend your final placement
  • Graduate from your program
  • Register with VIT (Victorian Institute of Teaching)
  • Gain employment as a teacher

There are no exceptions.

2. When should I attempt the LANTITE?

People who are planning to start an accredited teaching degree can take the test before they begin their studies. This includes Year 11 and 12 students, recent school leavers, mature-age applicants, mid-career changers, and those enrolled in pathway courses.

Master of Teaching (Primary) and Master of Teaching (Secondary) students
You must:

  • Attempt (but do not have to pass)  both literacy and numeracy tests ) by the end of your first year (i.e before you complete the first eight units).
  • Pass both tests before your final placement.

Bachelor of Education (Primary), Bachelor of Secondary Education, Bachelor of Secondary Education (Health and Physical Education), Bachelor of Secondary Education (Applied Teaching), Bachelor of Secondary Education (Inclusive and Specialist Education) and Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary) students
You must:

  • Attempt (but do not have to pass) both literacy and numeracy tests by the end of your first year. (i.e before you complete the first eight units).
  • Pass both tests by the end of your third year.

Importantly, you cannot complete your final-year placement unless both components are passed.

There are four test windows per year. It is advisable to complete the literacy and numeracy tests on separate days to reduce fatigue. Register early, as places fill quickly.

If sitting the test at a centre, allow 3 hours total (including registration). Remote testing is also available.

Click here to view test window dates

Click here to view information on taking the test from home

3. Where are the tests conducted?

  • In-person: Testing centres in Melbourne, Ballarat, other capital cities, and some regional areas
  • Online: Remote proctoring from home

Click here to view test centre locations

4. What is the literacy test breakdown?

The literacy test assesses:

  • 60% Reading: locating, integrating, interpreting, and evaluating ideas in texts
  • 40% Technical Writing Skills: spelling, punctuation, grammar, and text structure

5. What are ‘reasonable adjustments’?

Students with documented needs may apply for reasonable adjustments (e.g. extra time). Applications must be submitted directly to ACER.

More information is available on their website or via email: teacheredtest@acer.org.

Click here to view information on reasonable adjustments

6. What changes are in place from 2025?

From 2025, the limit on LANTITE attempts has been removed. You now have unlimited opportunities to meet the standard. This change follows the 2023–2024 National Teacher Workforce Action Plan LANTITE Trial, which introduced uncapped attempts and more detailed feedback.

7. Where can I find more support?

Visit the LANTITE Moodle shell for resources and FAQs

Use free platforms like ReadTheory.org for reading comprehension practice Access further information via the ACER LANTITE site or the Australian Government Education site