Do you dream of becoming a teacher in the U.S.? Schools across the country employ teachers at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. For public-school positions, teachers generally need a state-issued license or certification, and the requirements vary by state. Private schools typically set their own hiring criteria.
However, if you are thinking about becoming a teacher in the U.S., there are a few things you need to know. The route to certification varies from state to state. That is why we have created this article to guide you through the general steps to becoming a teacher in the USA. Before applying, check the official educator-licensing agency in the state where you plan to teach.
How to Become a Teacher in the U.S.
Step 1. Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree in the USA
The first step toward becoming a teacher in the USA is generally to obtain a bachelor’s degree. For public-school licensure, states typically require at least a bachelor’s degree, but the degree does not necessarily have to be earned in the United States. Requirements vary by state and grade level. For example, many states require public high school teachers to have an academic background in the subject they plan to teach, while alternative pathways may be available for candidates who already have a bachelor’s degree but have not completed teacher-education coursework.
Teacher-education programs typically include a student-teaching experience in which prospective teachers work with a mentor teacher and gain classroom experience. Some education careers require additional qualifications. For example, school principals typically need a master’s degree in education administration or leadership and several years of teaching experience.
For instance, Boston University offers the Bachelor of Science in Education & Human Development, a full-time, in-person undergraduate major. Students complete core courses during their first two years and choose one of five specializations for their third and fourth years. Students interested in teacher licensure can consider the Teaching & Learning specialization and continue into a graduate-level teacher-preparation program that leads to licensure.
You can also pursue the Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special Education, Birth–Grade 2, Initial Certification from New York University Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development. This full-time, 45-credit program leads to eligibility for New York State initial certification in early childhood general and special education.
Step 2. Complete a Teacher Preparation Program
After obtaining a degree, many candidates complete a teacher-preparation program. These programs typically include coursework and a student-teaching experience. During student teaching, candidates practice working in a classroom while receiving feedback and support from an experienced mentor teacher. The required pathway varies by state, and alternative routes are available in every state for some candidates who already have a bachelor’s degree.
Teacher-intern pathways are not uniform across the country. For example, the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing states that most California intern programs are two years long. Candidates teach full time as the teacher of record while completing coursework and other credential requirements. They earn a salary and benefits based on the employer’s negotiated salary schedule.
Step 3. Prepare for the State Certification Exam
To become licensed to teach in a public school in the United States, you must meet the requirements of the state where you plan to work. Certification or licensure requirements vary by state but generally include a bachelor’s degree, a student-teaching experience, a background check, and one or more certification tests. The required sequence and available alternative pathways differ by state.
For example, the Arizona Department of Education states that teachers and other individuals who work in classrooms must have an Arizona Department of Public Safety Identity Verified Prints (IVP) fingerprint clearance card. Applicants should request the IVP application for teacher certification and review the requirements for the specific certificate they plan to pursue.
Required documents and fees depend on the certificate type. Applicants should consult the Arizona Department of Education’s current certification pages and online portal before submitting an application.
Step 4. Pass the State Teacher Certification Exams
Public-school teacher-licensure requirements generally include certification tests, although the required assessments and passing scores vary by state or agency. Some states use Praxis assessments, while others use different exams or provide alternative routes for certain candidates.
National Board Certification is separate from state licensure. It is a voluntary, standards-based certification for accomplished teachers and does not replace the initial state license required for public-school teaching. Eligibility generally includes a bachelor’s degree, at least three years of teaching experience, and a state teaching license where one is required.
The Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators tests measure reading, writing, and mathematics skills. They are computer-delivered and can be taken at a test center or at home. Praxis Subject Tests include more than 90 assessments designed to measure the knowledge and skills needed by beginning K–12 educators. States and agencies determine which tests are required and set their own passing scores.
Step 5. Earn a Teaching License
After meeting your state’s education, teacher-preparation, assessment, and background-check requirements, you can apply for a teaching license through the appropriate state agency. The exact requirements depend on the state, grade level, subject area, and credential type.
For example, the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board issues educator licenses in Minnesota. An individual must hold a license to teach in a Minnesota public school. National Board Certification, which is offered by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards, is a separate voluntary professional certification and is not a substitute for an initial state teaching license.
Public schools require teachers to meet state licensure or certification requirements. Teachers in private schools typically do not need a state-issued license, although individual private schools may have their own hiring standards.
Overall, becoming a teacher in the USA requires careful planning and a commitment to education. The route depends on the state, employer, grade level, and subject area. Public-school teachers generally need a bachelor’s degree, a teacher-preparation program or approved alternative route, the required assessments and background checks, and a state-issued license or certification. Foreign teachers must also confirm the immigration or work-authorization rules that apply to their circumstances.
We hope this article about how to become a U.S. teacher was insightful. If you want to pursue a teaching profession in the United States, you can start by studying in the country, and our Study in the USA Page and the Available Programs for International Students can help you with that!
