As MTEL preparation tutors and consultants, we have worked with thousands of aspiring teachers in Massachusetts and can confidently say we know a whole lot about the [often confusing and challenging] process of achieving one’s educator licensure in this state.
Whether you grew up in Massachusetts and are just getting started in your teacher career, or if you have been teaching in another state and looking to now teach in MA, the process can seem daunting and challenging. We’re here to support you so that you can focus on what matters most – being as relaxed as possible, in the right mindset, and ready to do what we consider to be the most important job in the world!
Here are some important things to know:
Schooling
Assuming you are not a teacher in another state already, first thing’s first – you’ll need to obtain a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Second, you’ll need to complete an approved Teacher Preparation Program that will include both coursework and a student teaching/practicum component. This can either be part of your undergraduate degree or a masters degree, depending on what avenue you choose to go down!
If you’re coming from another state with a teaching license, MA does not offer reciprocity so you will need to take your required MTELs and apply for licensure – more on both below!
MTEL
Next, whether you are a current teacher in another state or starting your career in MA, you’ll need to pass the Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL) exams for your chosen subject or grade level. Some exams are required by all teachers, such as the communication and literacy exam, while additional tests will be required depending on the subject or grade level you are looking to get certified in.
The MTEL exams are comprehensive and challenging, and while a standardized test cannot possibly dictate your worth as a teacher, (in fact – some of the best teachers we know failed their MTELs multiple times and almost gave up!) it’s a crucial box you must check in order to get licensed. We wrote a blog and created a free guide on our best study tips – check them both out here!
As if studying wasn’t hard enough, the MTEL registration process can be daunting as well. Below are the steps you need to take to register, and here is a link to grab our free step-by-step guides to take you seamlessly through the registration process.
- Create an ELAR account
- Find your MEPID number
- Create your MTEL registration account
- Follow the registration prompts
Types of Licenses
There are multiple license types in MA that you can apply for depending on which stage of schooling and test taking you are at. You can read in detail about licensure here, but below are the main things to know:
Initial License: You can apply for your initial license while in your preparation program and after passing just the Communication and Literacy MTEL. With this license you will be able to do your practicum at most schools to gain classroom experience. However, you cannot get hired by a district with this license unless they offer you an emergency license or encourage you to apply for a provisional license if you hold a teaching license from another state. More on those next!
Provisional License: Provisional licenses are available to individuals who have completed an educator preparation program outside of Massachusetts. This license allows teachers to work while taking and passing their MTELs in order to meet requirements for full licensure in MA.
Emergency License: Emergency licenses are issued in urgent situations when there is a shortage of qualified educators. This is only a temporary solution.
Professional License: Once you have completed all required schooling and student teaching, and have passed all of your required MTELs, you can apply for your Professional License and will have Highly Qualified Teacher status once your license is granted.
Continuing Ed
It doesn’t stop there – as you move through your teaching career you will need to continue Professional Development to keep your license current by participating in relevant and approved workshops, courses, or conferences. Your school will offer some PD that you’ll be required to take, and will also offer catalogs of PD options that you can sign up for when you see one that aligns with your schedule and interests you.
We’re Here to Help
If that all feels like a lot – it is! But don’t worry, you’re not alone. We’re here to help with our Mastering the MTEL Membership and other support options.
As former classroom teachers now devoting our careers to making sure every aspiring and new teacher is set up for success, we know the power of community and the role that a supportive environment plays in laying the groundwork for your educator career.
One final note: At the time of writing this all info above is accurate, but always check the latest requirements on the Massachusetts DESE website, as they may be subject to change! Or, shoot us an email and we can help you navigate any questions or changes.
