Become a certified teacher
Changing lives starts with changing yours.
Transform your dream to teach into a reality with the nation’s longest running, alternative teacher certification organization.
$1,900
Standard program cost
6–8
Months to complete
100%
Online and self-paced
16
States approved
Our graduates teach in districts and schools nationwide
How it works
Three steps stand between you and a classroom of your own.
Choose Your Path
Select your teaching state and subject(s). Each state and subject area has unique requirements, so review them thoroughly. Find your state
Enroll and Pay
Create your account, choose your program, and pay either once or across nine monthly installments. Once you have enrolled, you will submit official transcripts for your bachelor’s degree and consent to a standard background check. See pricing
Start Studying
Your study materials are available as soon as you enroll, so you can start studying the same day. You are now on your way to becoming a teacher! Enroll now
Explore your path
Wherever you are in the process, there is a good place to start.
Find your state
Requirements, subjects, and costs vary by state. See exactly what it takes where you want to teach.
How the program works
From choosing a subject to passing your exams — a look at every step of certification.
Pricing and payment
One-time program pricing with no tuition, no semesters, and no hidden fees.
Get the Latest Promotion in Your Inbox
Your passion. Our mission.
American Board was built by educators for educators. We bridge the gap between aspiring teachers and schools nationwide.
Established more than 20 years ago by the U.S. Department of Education, we are the country’s longest-running alternative teacher certification organization, championing improved access to learning for both students and aspiring teachers. And we do it quickly, affordably, and flexibly.
Testimonials
Hear from the teachers who took this path before you.
“American Board was instrumental in securing my teaching job. I was drawn to the program by the individually paced modules and extremely reasonable cost. If you choose this program, you won’t regret it!”
Max HaskinsWisconsin
“I loved that the program is self-guided and self-paced. The practice quizzes and the content are beneficial. I was able to obtain multiple teaching certifications with American Board. The program was amazing for me as it helped me transition into education from a different industry.”
Jacob ImmelWisconsin
“I was first attracted to American Board because they are the only alternative certification program that provided the subject I wanted to teach—English. I am a self-learner so I loved that the program could be completed online at my pace. I had absolutely no problem finding a job with my certification. In fact, my high school reached out to me!
Jessica ThompsonSouth Carolina
“I started this journey as content specialist substitute. I did not want to go back to school and earn a second Masters for certification. I began my research on programs and found American Board was the best option for me. I completed the program over the summer and I passed both test on my first attempts.”
Mariccia Spearman-KakiMissouri
“There are no lengthy papers or mentorship requirements, just straightforward tests. If you seek an independent and challenging path to teacher certification, I highly recommend American Board’s teacher certification program.”
Wesley BrooksOhio
“I chose American Board because it allowed me the flexibility to gain hands-on teaching experience while working on my certification independently in my free time.”
Kaprese WarrenArkansas
“I always knew I could flourish in my own classroom and decided to enroll in American Board. I was pregnant with my first child and the flexibility was perfect!
Suzanne CrispSouth Carolina
“The self-paced online courses allowed me to balance my studies with my job, and the comprehensive curriculum prepared me for the classroom.”
Brooks HillIdaho
“American Board helped me (with a degree in Economics) find an alternative pathway to licensure. I now serve as a Gifted Coordinator and Team Lead.”
Matthew PlummerFlorida
“Obtaining my teaching certification through the American Board was the fastest route to my dream job as a K-2 elementary school specialty teacher.”
Jennifer MuellerWisconsin
“I am Candice Geisler and I teach for Epic Charter Schools! American Board gave me confidence and support to become a great teacher. Without the program, I would have never received a teaching certificate or been given the support I need to make positive changes in my career. Everyone in the program has been such a blessing to me, and poured into me when I needed a boost. This program changed my life!”
Candice GeislerOklahoma
“The course content, videos and detailed schedule helped me gain the knowledge and confidence needed to land my dream job. Thank you American Board!”
Kelsey WellsIdaho
“The program gave me the skills and knowledge I needed to pass our state exams and move seamlessly into a full-time teaching role. I have since completed my masters degree in education and will be starting my 13th year of teaching.”
Julianne StirlingIdaho
“I was able to put much of what I learned into practice right away, working as a paraprofessional while earning my certification. Being a teacher isn’t easy, but the American Board set me up for success. I’m now entering my fifth year teaching and gladly living out my calling each day.”
Jade KoskiTexas
“Upon enrolling, I was given access to a robust and comprehensive package of resources that guided me to successful completion. Within less than a year, I earned the license that qualified me to teach at a school I love!”
Elizabeth NoveyWisconsin
“American Board’s option was the most cost-effective and easiest to accomplish for securing a new license without spending tens of thousands of dollars. Adding the support given to me as a veteran sealed the deal.”
Rich WalrathRepublic of Korea
Start your path to certification today.
Enroll online in minutes, study on your own schedule, and sit for your exams when you feel ready. Our team is here for every question along the way.
