ILTS Principal as Instructional Leader 195 & 196 Practice Exam 2026 – Complete Prep Guide

Are you aspiring to take on leadership roles within the educational sector in Illinois? The ILTS Principal as Instructional Leader (195 and 196) Exam is a pivotal step for those aiming to spotlight their capabilities and secure principal positions. Our guide offers an in-depth look into the exam’s format, crucial content areas, and strategic tips to help you excel.

The ILTS Principal as Instructional Leader Exam is a must-pass for educational professionals aiming to climb the leadership ladder to become principals or assistant principals in Illinois schools. This certification affirms your proficiency in integrating educational theory with practical leadership skills.

Exam Format

The ILTS Principal as Instructional Leader exam is divided into two subtests, labeled as 195 and 196. Each subtest is designed to evaluate a candidate’s leadership competencies over a range of subject areas fundamental to effective school administration. Here's a brief overview of the exam format:

• Multiple-Choice Questions: The first subtest consists of approximately 70 multiple-choice questions. These questions assess various leadership aspects such as instructional leadership, education system regulations, and operational management.

• Written Assignments: The second subtest includes around 4 written assignments, which require detailed responses. These tasks are aimed at evaluating your critical thinking and written communication skills as they pertain to real-world educational leadership scenarios.

The two subtests are conducted separately, and candidates are required to pass both to obtain certification. A strong grasp of educational policies and the ability to apply theoretical skills to practical situations is crucial.

What to Expect on the Exam

• Visionary Leadership: Candidates should be well-versed in establishing and implementing a strategic vision that fosters a culture of continuous improvement and elevates student achievement.

• Instructional Improvement: The exam tests your ability to guide and advocate for quality instructional methods that serve diverse learning needs. Critical analysis of teaching standards and student assessments fall within this purview.

• Management and Operations: You need to proficiently manage day-to-day school operations, understanding the intricacies of budgeting, human resources, and facility management to ensure a conducive learning environment.

• Family and Community Engagement: Your capability to build strong community ties and promote parental involvement in the educational process will be assessed. Collaborative decision-making and effective communication are essential competencies.

• Ethics and Integrity: The exam evaluates your adherence to ethical principles in educational leadership, fostering a respectful and inclusive school culture that supports both students and staff.

Tips for Passing the Exam

Preparation is paramount. Here are some tips to help you ace the ILTS Principal as Instructional Leader Exam:

• Familiarize with Test Format: Understanding the structure of the exam will guide your study efforts and help reduce test-day anxiety. Practice with previous question papers and simulate exam conditions to boost your confidence.

• Leverage Online Resources: Utilize comprehensive resources available on sites like Examzify to familiarize yourself with the types of questions asked and to hone your test-taking strategies.

• Develop a Study Plan: Plan your study schedule to cover all essential topics systematically. Allocate time for both theoretical study and practical application exercises.

• Engage in Study Groups: Joining study groups can provide opportunities for group discussion, clarifying doubts, and gaining different perspectives on complex topics.

• Professional Mentorship: Seek guidance from seasoned educational leaders. Insight from practicing professionals can offer valuable perspectives that textbooks may not cover comprehensively.

• Self-care and Rest: Ensure you incorporate adequate rest into your study routine to maintain peak mental acuity. Healthy eating and regular physical activity can also enhance concentration levels.

Attaining the ILTS Principal as Instructional Leader certification unlocks vast opportunities within the educational sector, empowering you to make significant contributions to school communities. With strategic preparation and dedicated study, you can pass the exam and step confidently into leadership roles that shape future generations.