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School Counselor Certification Reciprocity Process in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has entered into an Interstate Agreement with forty-five (45) other states/jurisdictions. Individuals originating from these states (out-of-state educators) may qualify for certification under terms mutually established. There is potential eligibility to obtain a Pennsylvania Education Specialist I certificate through an interstate contract facilitated by the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC). It is imperative, however, that candidates fulfill Pennsylvania’s prerequisite of completing the mandated Praxis test.
Specific Requirements for Certification
- Experience: Hold an Active/Valid Professional Level Certificate with Two (2) Years of Successful Experience in the area for which you are applying.
- Comparable Pennsylvania Certificate: Identify the comparable Pennsylvania certificate for which you are applying.
- Transcripts: Obtain all official transcripts (bachelor’s and beyond) from regionally/nationally accredited institutions (see Overview for Sending Official Transcripts).
- Experience Verification: Provide proof of two (2) full years of experience in the area for which you are applying, verified by the Verification of Experience Form PDE 338 V completed by previous employers.
- Test Scores: Confirm that required content area test scores have been reported directly to PDE from the test administrator.
- Education Preparation Program: For instructional (teacher) certification, meet specific criteria related to completing an approved educator preparation program and passing related content tests.
- Application Level: All applicants must apply for a Level I credential type.
General Application Process
- Application Submission: Complete the profile and application through the Pennsylvania Teacher Information Management System (TIMS).
- Transcripts: Submit official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended, including transfer credits leading to earned degrees. If documents cannot be uploaded electronically, include the cover sheet provided after application submission and mail it to the indicated address.
- Test Scores and GPA: Provide proof of qualifying scores for the Professional School Counselor Exam (ETS Test Code 5422) and GPA.
- Out-of-State Credential: Submit a copy of your current, valid out-of-state credential.
- Application Fee: Pay the $260 initial application fee.
For inquiries about your reciprocity application, contact the Department of Education at (717)-728-3224 during normal business hours or email ra-edcertquestions@pa.gov.