8 Comprehensive Steps to Navigate the U.S. Teaching Certification Process as an International Teacher

There are several benefits to getting a United States teaching license as an international teacher — like global teaching credentials, career advancement opportunities, professional networking, and higher salaries (to name a few). 

Whether you are an aspiring or current teacher abroad, navigating the U.S. teaching certification process can be intimidating. Particularly when you consider factors like varying time zones, clinical practice requirements, and testing to demonstrate proficiency. Plus in the U.S., teaching certifications are issued by individual states which can have varying requirements. 

However, the process for getting your U.S. teaching license is easier than you may think. To help you successfully navigate the U.S. teaching certification process while abroad, this blog post details everything you need to know — including how Moreland University can help you get your U.S. teaching certification from anywhere in the world. 

8 comprehensive steps to get your U.S. teaching certification from anywhere in the world

1. Understand the requirements to get a U.S. teaching license

The first step in getting a U.S. teaching certification is to understand the requirements. We know these can be daunting (especially when working abroad), but we’ll break down all the core requirements to make the process as transparent as possible. 

For most U.S. teaching certifications, you’ll need to have earned a four-year U.S. bachelor’s degree or an equivalent international degree. This degree does not need to be in education (though having a degree in education can expedite the certification process). 

Additionally, you’ll need to complete a teacher preparation program — like those offered at Moreland University — and gain hands-on teaching experience (clinical practice). You’ll also need to complete a background check, pass subject knowledge exams, and submit an application to get your U.S. teaching certification. 

If you’re an international teacher who hopes to move into a U.S. teaching position, it’s important to know early on that certification requirements can vary by the state you hope to teach in, as well as the content and grade levels you plan to teach. If you already have a specific state you hope to teach in, you’ll want to follow those requirements closely to ensure you complete all the necessary steps. 

For international teachers who intend to continue teaching abroad, Moreland University admissions representatives recommend earning your U.S. teaching certification through Washington, D.C. where the process is especially accommodating to those looking to gain global teaching credentials while still working abroad. 

If you’re unsure about which requirements to follow or want to talk through your specific plan to successfully earn a U.S. teaching certification, schedule a no-obligation conversation with a Moreland University admissions representative. We’re happy to walk you through the process and help you plan for your specific needs, interests, and goals.

2. Earn a four-year bachelor’s degree

To earn a U.S. teaching certification, you’ll need a U.S. four-year bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Equivalent international degrees can qualify as well. If you’re uncertain if your international degree is equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree, you should  order an independent review from a transcript evaluation agency.

3. Find a flexible teacher preparation program

Next, you’ll need to select a teacher preparation program. For those teaching abroad, factors like virtual learning environments, time zone considerations, and overall flexibility are especially important to consider. You also want to take into account program completion rates as completing a U.S. teacher preparation program from abroad can be challenging if the program isn’t flexible and accommodating to the needs of international teachers. 

Serving candidates in more than 165 countries, Moreland University offers multiple 100% online program options that can be completed from anywhere in the world — making them great options for international teachers looking to take their careers forward. The university’s TEACH-NOW certification preparation program can be completed in as little as nine-months completely virtual. Moreland University also offers a Master’s in Education with teaching credential and six specializations entirely online and partners with esteemed international organizations, including Search Associates, International Schools Services (ISS), and Association for the Advancement of International Education (AAIE). You can discover more of Moreland University’s esteemed partners here.

These flexible and affordable programs are designed to meet the needs of various candidates, including current or aspiring international teachers. If you’re not sure which Moreland University program is right for you, our admissions representatives can help you decide.

4. Apply to the teacher preparation program

Once you’ve found a teacher preparation program that meets your needs, you’ll need to officially apply. Application requirements vary depending on the university and program, but you will typically need to submit transcripts and/or transcript evaluations. Some programs also require letters of recommendation, interviews, and/or a personal statement, so pay close attention to application requirements and deadlines to avoid admissions delays. Applying to Moreland University is a surprisingly simple process that takes only 10-15 minutes to complete.

5. Complete your teacher preparation program and clinical practice

After getting into a teacher preparation program, you’ll need to complete the program. This includes taking relevant courses, completing corresponding coursework, and getting hands-on teaching experience (clinical practice). 

Moreland University’s programs provide candidates with the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to be a successful teacher within or outside of the United States. In addition to being completely online, the university’s accredited programs offer flexible start dates, small cohorts, and faculty composed of practicing teachers (including many with extensive experience teaching internationally and supporting international teachers) — all of which set you up for success in the classroom.

6. Complete required exams  

While this step will vary based on your desired certification subject(s) and grade level(s), most candidates seeking their U.S. teaching certification will need to demonstrate their subject knowledge and pedagogical expertise. This is often done through a series of exams determined by the issuing state, which may include a Basic Skills or Praxis Core, Praxis Subject Assessment, and Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching. You’ll want to thoughtfully prepare for these exams as they are an important step in the U.S. teaching certification process. 

At Moreland University, an impressive number of graduates pass their required exams the first time around. The university also offers additional test preparation support to candidates and graduates through a partnership with Teachers Test Prep. 

7. Pass a background check

Before getting your U.S. teaching license, you’ll need to complete a criminal background check. This process, which includes fingerprinting, can be completed from anywhere in the world and is a standard requirement for those seeking a U.S. teaching certification.

8. Get your U.S. teaching certification

After completing the above steps, you’ll need to apply for and obtain your U.S. teaching license. In Washington D.C., you’ll apply for certification through the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) Educator Credential Information System (ECIS) portal. During the process, you’ll be asked to share key documentation, such as your official transcripts and transcript evaluations, test scores, and verification of completing a teacher preparation program. Typically, you’ll hear back about your application within eight to 10 weeks. 

Ready to get your U.S. teaching certification from anywhere in the world?

Moreland University can help. Our 100% online teacher preparation programs provide international teachers with the support, resources, and expertise needed to thrive in the classroom and obtain their U.S. teaching license. Schedule a no-obligation conversation with one of our admissions representatives to learn more and see how Moreland University can help you achieve teaching success anywhere in the world.