Requirements for Individuals Prepared Outside of California

California has a two-tier credential structure. A five year preliminary credential is the first credential issued after an individual meets basic credential requirements. A professional clear credential is issued when all credential requirements have been completed.

A Single Subject Teaching Credential authorizes the holder to teach the specific subject(s) named on the credential in departmentalized classes such as those in most middle schools and high schools. However, a teacher authorized for single subject instruction may be assigned to teach any subject in his or her authorized fields at any grade level: preschool, grades K–12, or in classes organized primarily for adults.

Individuals who completed their professional preparation outside of California may apply directly to the Commission for their initial credential. The credentialing process in California is made up of a sequence of requirements which the teacher is given up to five years to complete. Teachers receiving the preliminary credential are making a commitment to complete the process and obtain the professional clear credential. Applicants may apply directly to the Commission by downloading the informational handout at http://www.ctc.ca.gov/credentials/leaflets/cl560.pdf

Foreign Transcript Evaluation

Individuals who have completed college or university course work at an institution in a country other than the United States must obtain a complete evaluation of foreign transcripts, degrees*, and other relevant documents prior to applying to the Commission for a California credential, permit, or certificate. A foreign transcript evaluation is required any time foreign course work is used to meet any credential requirement, even if the foreign course work has been accepted by a college or university in the United States. The foreign transcripts must be evaluated by one of the approved organizations listed on this leaflet in order to be accepted by the Commission. These organizations are private enterprises who charge a fee for their services. Individuals pursuing a foreign transcript evaluation must follow the procedures outlined by the organization providing the evaluation. In all instances, original, official documentation will be required when requesting the evaluation.

Additional information may be found on the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing's website at http://www.ctc.ca.gov/credentials/leaflets/cl635.html

Please contact the Credential Center in the College of Education (ED1-42) at (562)985-4109 for advisement.

Last update: 3/16/06