WHO IS REQUIRED TO PASS THE RICA?

The RICA requirement generally applies to candidates who complete Multiple Subject Teaching Credential or Education Specialist Instruction Credential programs through accredited California colleges or universities or via district intern programs. In addition, Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and Education Specialist Instruction Credential candidates trained outside of California and individuals seeking to add a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential to their existing Single Subject Teaching Credential may use a passing score on the RICA to fulfill the teaching of reading methods requirements.

Based on California Education Code Sections 44283 and 44283.2, the following two groups of credential applicants are required to pass the RICA:

• California-trained candidates for the initial Multiple Subject Teaching Credential, preliminary or clear, with or without emphasis, based on a fifth-year, blended, or intern program or on three or more years of applicable private school experience
• California-trained candidates for initial Education Specialist Instruction Credentials (special education), preliminary, preliminary level I, or clear level II

The following groups of applicants are not required to pass the RICA:

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