Teaching in North Carolina: A Guide for Foreign Educators
If you’re a foreign teacher with 5 or more years of teaching experience, North Carolina offers exciting opportunities. Here’s what you need to know:
Requirements for Foreign Teachers
If you’re a foreign teacher with 5 or more years of teaching experience, North Carolina offers exciting opportunities. Here’s what you need to know:
Bachelor’s Degree: You must hold a bachelor’s degree to be eligible for teaching positions in North Carolina.
Teacher Preparation Program: Complete a state-approved teacher preparation program within the state.
Licensure Exams: Pass the North Carolina State Board of Education (SBE) required licensure exams. These exams are outlined in policy LICN-0031. The exams include:
Pearson Praxis: Prepare and register for the required licensure exams through Pearson Praxis.
Background Check: Undergo a background check before applying for teacher certification.
Benefits of Teaching in North Carolina
Teaching in North Carolina comes with several advantages:
Competitive Salaries: While salaries vary based on experience, credentials, and job type, you can expect an average salary range of $2,600 to $4,000 USD per month2.
Cost of Living: The cost of living in North Carolina is reasonable, allowing you to save more of your income.
Strong Support: The NC Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) provides excellent support to educators.
Professional Growth: Abundant opportunities for professional development and growth.
Quality of Life: North Carolina boasts a diverse economy, technological emphasis, and a high quality of life.
Licensing and Credentialing
For special education teachers, here’s how to navigate licensing and credentialing:
Online Licensure System: Use the NCDPI Online Licensure System to apply for your educator license. Create a licensure account and follow the steps3.
Residency License: Explore North Carolina’s new Residency License for career changers.
Contact Licensure Office:
Phone: 800-577-7994 (toll-free within North Carolina) or (919) 716-1800.
Press 1 to check the status of your submitted application.
Press 2 to speak to a Licensure Specialist for general licensure questions.
Press 3 for login or password assistance.
Resources
TeachNC: Get free support for becoming a North Carolina educator. They’ll guide you through licensure pathways, teacher preparation programs, and even reimburse up to $100 of your application costs3.
Set up a free 1-on-1 advising call.
Attend a free info session.
Welcome to North Carolina, where your teaching journey awaits!