Major Field Tests

The Major Field Tests (MFTs) are innovative undergraduate assessments designed to measure the basic knowledge and understanding achieved by students in a major field of study.  Test results enable academic departments to better assess and refine curricula, and gauge the progress of students compared to others in the program and those in similar programs at schools throughout the country.

All MFTs are proctored, multiple choice exams designed to assess mastery of concepts and principles as well as knowledge expected of you at the conclusion of a major in specific subject areas. Many of the tests contain questions requiring interpretation of graphs, diagrams and charts based on material related to the field of study, and score reports may be used in making medium to high-stakes decisions.

The tests are two-hour, multiple-choice examinations. A&M-Corpus Christi administers the computerized-MFT exam. Test descriptions and sample questions are available at ETS Major Field Test Overview (click on Tour link for more information about the tests).

The MFT online system does not offer the usual accommodations (e.g., different color text, different color backgrounds, or enlarged type) considered most helpful to sight-impaired students. The exams are graphic-intensive. This means that enlarged type, in particular, would require excessive scrolling which could disadvantage students that are sight-impaired. As an alternative, large-print and Braille versions of all MFT titles can be made available upon request, but these are not kept in stock and can take as long as 6-8 weeks to create and be mailed to the University.  For this type of accommodation, you should notify the Office of Academic Testing prior to the 12th class day of the semester they are graduating.  If you are registered with Disability Services and would like to request additional test time, the request must be made with the Office of Academic Testing prior to the test day.

For questions with regard to who should take the MFT or which subject you should register for, please consult your advisor or department contacts.

Biology | Dr. Gregory Buck | 361.825.3717 | Office Tidal Hall 309D

Chemistry | Dr. Fereshteh Billiot | 361.825.6067 | Office CS 202

The Office of Academic Testing administers the Major Field Test in both the spring and fall semesters.

The Major Field Test is administered remotely and on-campus on selected dates for the Fall 2024 term.  Testing for the fall will complete October 25.

Register for your appointment type/time here!

On Test Day: Candidates should report to their assigned room with a form of identification containing a photograph ( driver's license, ID card, military card, or passport).  Students should report to the exam site at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled test time.  Latecomers will not be permitted into the testing room.

Items Prohibited in Testing Room: 

• Food and drinks
• Telephones or Cell Phones
• Pagers or beepers
• Books, pamphlets, notes, or papers of any kind
• Dictionaries (including electronic)
• Compass or protractors
• Calculators (including calculator watches)
• Rulers
• Slide rules
• Mechanical pencils, pens, and highlighter pens
• Stereos or radios with headphones
• Watch alarms (including those with flashing lights or alarm sounds)