Educator Preparation Services Teacher Certification
Educator Preparation Services helps students in teacher preparation programs across UT Austin navigate the certification process, from certification exam approvals through final recommendations for certification.
Students must complete all teacher certification requirements, including taking and passing the required Texas Education Agency exams, to be recommended for certification. Learn more on the Educator Preparation Services Wiki.
Other Certifications
The Educator Certification Office also supports students pursuing one of the following certifications:
- School librarian
- School principal
- School superintendent
Students must pass the appropriate TEA-approved exam to be recommended for certification. Test approval is provided during the final semester or upon program completion.
Teacher Certification FAQs
What is the GPA Requirement?
A minimum 2.5 GPA is required for admission to all teacher preparation programs.
Do I need to redo my fingerprints if I was fingerprinted as a substitute teacher?
No. Completing Substitute Teacher Fingerprints during your Professional Development Sequence fulfills the fingerprinting requirement. You may still need to contact TEA to link your fingerprints to your certification application. See the TEA website for details.
Do you offer any teacher preparation courses or programs online?
All undergraduate UT Austin teacher preparation programs are offered in person. However, the Longhorns in Residence graduate certificate program uses a hybrid format, with online summer coursework followed by a full-time, in-person teacher residency at a partner school.
Can I take the Texas Education Agency’s Teacher Certification Exams online?
No, students must take the exam at a Testing Center. Dates of availability are at the Texas Education Certification Examination Program website.
I am moving to Texas and I am currently certified to teach in another state. How do I become certified to teach in Texas?
Please follow the instructions on the TEA website.
I have a job offer and I’ve taken my tests, but my TEA certification hasn’t come through.
Students graduating this semester who have completed all certification requirements may request an Anticipation Letter to share with a prospective employer who has extended a job offer. Contact the COE Certification Officer for assistance.
Will my military service, training or education apply to my TEA certification?
In accordance with 19 TAC 228.35(a)(5), relevant military service, training or education may satisfy certain program prerequisite admission requirements. It must be directly related to the certificate sought and cannot replace certification exams, internships, clinical teaching or practicum requirements. The Program Director determines whether the experience qualifies.
Shannon Hewgley
Certification Officer
