Answers to Common Questions

Virtual Advisor

The Virtual Advisor can answer most of your questions as well as
direct you to the
right resources.

Credential

Credential, career changer

I am thinking of changing my career and becoming a teacher in California. I have an undergraduate degree and am very familiar with the subject I wish to teach. Do I still need to complete a teacher preparation program?

I am considering changing my career and becoming a teacher. I know I have to complete a teacher preparation program but I need to keep working in order to support my family. Is this possible?

Credential, out-of-country teacher

I have read that the requirements for becoming a teacher in California have become easier for teachers from other states. Is this true for teachers from other countries?

I am a teacher outside the United States and would like to become a credentialed teacher in California. What do I need to do?

Credential, out-of-state teacher

I have been teaching in another state for many years and am now thinking of relocating to California. What do I need to do in order to teach in California?

I received my credential from another state and want to teach in California. What do I need to do?

I am a teacher who is interested in moving to California to teach. I have heard that the teaching licenses from other states are usually not accepted by California. Is that true?

General Credential

What is the CBEST and how long does it remain valid?

I am thinking of moving to the US, am not a teacher now but would like to teach in California. What do I need to do?

I have a master's degree in the subject I wish to teach. Do I just need to pass the CBEST in order to teach in a k-12 classroom?

What is an intern program?

What is an "approved teaching preparation program?

Do I need to major in the subject I wish to teach?

I am not sure what grade level I wish to teach. What would be the best ways for me to figure this out?

Jobs

I am from out-of-state and understand that each school district in California does its own hiring. Do I have to call each school district, or log on to each district's Web site, in order to see what jobs are available in the state?

I want to teach but I want to make sure I can get a job. Are there some types of teachers needed more than others?

Math/Science

I've been working in private industry for many years and am seriously considering changing my career and becoming a teacher. I can't go back to school 100% as I have a family to support. What are my options?

I understand there is a need for science teachers, but I've heard there are different types of science credentials. Can you explain the differences?

Are there different types of credentials to teach math?

Special Education

I already have a basic credential and would like to add special education. What do I need to do?

I am a paraeducator, and am assigned to a classroom that includes a couple of students with special needs. I'm thinking of becoming a special education teacher, but have to continue working while taking classes. Is there any program that can help me?

Financial Aid

Financial Aid

What is the FAFSA and who has to file it?

I would like to live in the neighborhood in which I teach but I do not think I can afford to purchase a house. Are there are programs that could help me realize this dream?

I want to become a teacher but am worried about tuition. How do I apply for financial aid?

I missed the March 2nd priority filing date of the FAFSA. Does that mean I am not eligible for financial aid?

I am only interested in getting a student loan. Do I still need to complete the FAFSA?

I am on active duty and thinking about becoming a teacher. Are there any programs that can help me?

I have been researching different scholarships and I have found some services that will do the search for you, for a fee. Is this a good deal? Are they helpful?

I need to look for scholarships but I don't even know how to begin. Can you help?

I would like to live in the neighborhood in which I teach but I do not think I can afford to purchase a house. Are there programs that could help me realize this dream?

I know there is a shortage of special education teachers but are there any programs to help someone obtain their education specialist credential?

I am thinking of becoming either a mathematics or science teacher and need financial assistance. I've filed my FAFSA but is there anything else I can do?

I have heard about National Board Certification and would like to know if there are any financial benefits to obtaining this certification.

I've heard that there are some new financial aid programs for future teachers in high need areas. Do you have any information about them?

I am not from California and I am wondering if I am eligible for any California-based financial aid.

Teaching

Substitute Teaching

I would like to try substitute teaching to see if I like teaching. What are the requirements?