I already have a college degree

Steps to becoming a teacher in Illinois:

• Route 1: Illinois Initial Teaching License/Certification


For certification applicants who have completed formal teacher education training, the proper Illinois Certification type to be applied for will be the Initial Illinois Certification. This certification is valid for 4 years and is non-renewable. Below are the steps that must be taken in order to qualify for this professional teacher certification in Illinois:
• Step 1:
  You must have completed a teacher preparation program from an accredited institution. Illinois Teacher Preparation Programs.
  
  Or request information from the accredited universities below:


• University of Phoenix
• Walden University
• Capella University
• Ashford University


• Step 2:
  You will need to pass the following examinations:
  • The Illinois Test of Basic Skills
  • The Illinois Content Test related to your subject area
  • The Assessment of Professional Teaching
  • Find information on testing locations and dates here.


• Step 3:
  Typically, you will file your application through the university where you received your Teacher Training. However, you may also apply online through OTIS at www.isbe.net/otis/default. You will need to submit a State Approved Program Verification Form (Form 73-05). This form will be completed by your Illinois Teacher Education University.


• Step 4:
  This is really going to be part of step 3, but to be forewarned, there is a $30 application processing fee.


• Step 5:
  Follow up by contacting someone from the Illinois Department of Education's Certification Office.
  
  
  Call these numbers for further information
  Springfield Certification Office:
  (866) 262-6663 or (217) 782-4321
  Chicago Certification Office:
  (312) 814-2220


• Step 6:
  Sit Back and Relax!

• Route 2: Illinois Alternative Certification


The Illinois Alternative Certification allows the certification holder to begin teaching in a charter or public school in Illinois prior to the completion of an accredited teacher education program. There are two separate routes for an Alternative Illinois Certification:


Alternative Certification Program or Alternative Route Program:
To apply for certification under the alternative certification program, you will need to satisfy the following requirements:
• A bachelor degree or higher in the field you wish to teach.
• Have five or more years of experience in an occupation related to the field you wish to teach.
• Pass basic skills and subject tests through the ICTS.
• Upon completion of the alternative certification program, you will receive a provisional alternative certification valid for 1 year. You will then be mentored, participate in professional development and then be assessed on your performance before being awarded an Initial Illinois Teaching Certification.


Resident Teacher Certification:
The resident teacher certification does not require the candidate to complete any teacher preparation work. If requirements are satisfied, the candidate will be rewarded a Resident Teacher Certification that is valid for 4 years. During this time the candidate will earn a Master's degree from an approved university. Upon completion of these four years and successful assessments, the candidate will be recommended for Standard Illinois Certification.


Call the Illinois Certification Office for further, more detailed, information.


Springfield Certification Office:
(866) 262-6663 or (217) 782-4321
Chicago Certification Office:
(312) 814-2220

Learn about the requirements of another state by clicking on one of the state certification links to your left.

Request information from schools by clicking on the links or school logos below.