2026 Certification Guide
How to Become a Teacher in Alaska
Everything you need to know to earn a Alaska teaching certificate — from degree requirements and required exams to alternative routes and reciprocity.
Step-by-Step: Getting Certified in Alaska
- 1
Complete Your Education
Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution plus completion of an approved teacher-preparation program. This typically includes completing an approved teacher preparation program that includes coursework in pedagogy, child development, and your subject area.
- 2
Complete Student Teaching
Complete a supervised student teaching experience (clinical practice) in an approved school setting. Most programs require a full semester of student teaching under a cooperating teacher.
- 3
Pass Required Assessments
Alaska requires passing state-approved assessments before certification is issued:
- Praxis Core Academic Skills (or qualifying SAT/ACT/GRE scores)Basic reading, writing, and mathematics
- Praxis Subject AssessmentsContent knowledge for your certification area
- Alaska Studies and Multicultural Education coursesRequired state-specific coursework (3 semester credits each) for all initial certificates
- 4
Apply for Your Certificate
Submit your application to Alaska Department of Education and Early Development (DEED), including transcripts, test scores, proof of student teaching completion, and any applicable fees. Most applications are processed through an online portal.
- 5
Start Teaching & Advance Your License
Your Initial Teacher Certificate (valid 3 years) allows you to begin teaching. Advance to a Professional Teacher Certificate (5 years, renewable) by meeting additional requirements such as completing a mentorship program or additional coursework.
Pass the Praxis exam
Mometrix study guide & practice tests for the Praxis — prep with confidence.
Alternative Paths to Certification in Alaska
If you have a bachelor's degree in another field or relevant professional experience, these routes may let you enter the classroom sooner while completing certification requirements.
- Type M Limited Teacher Certificate: Issued to candidates with demonstrated expertise in shortage areas (CTE, special education, rural placements)
- Alternative Routes to Teacher Certification (ARTC): University-affiliated programs that allow candidates to teach under a provisional certificate while completing pedagogy coursework
- Type C Special Services Certificate for school counselors, psychologists, and related specialists
- Teach For America (active in rural Alaska placements)
Out-of-State Certification & Reciprocity
Alaska participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement. Out-of-state applicants with valid certificates typically receive an Alaska Initial Teacher Certificate after credential review; the state-specific Alaska Studies + Multicultural Education coursework must still be completed within the first three years.
Tip: If you hold a valid teaching license from another state, contact Alaska Department of Education and Early Development (DEED) directly about your reciprocity options before re-taking any exams. Many states streamline the process for experienced educators.
What Will You Earn in Alaska?
Now that you know how to get certified, find out what to expect to earn. Alaska teachers start around $48,000 and average $73,722 per year statewide.
Alaska Teacher Salary Guide →Ready to apply?
Browse current teaching positions in Alaska — apply directly on district sites.
Data sources: Alaska Department of Education and Early Development. Certification requirements change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with Alaska Department of Education and Early Development (DEED) before beginning a preparation program. EduJobsBoard is not affiliated with any state education department.
Frequently asked questions about teaching in Alaska
- How do I become a teacher in Alaska?
- Alaska certification is administered by Alaska Department of Education and Early Development (DEED). The standard path is a Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution plus completion of an approved teacher-preparation program from an approved teacher-prep program, completion of state-required exams (Praxis Core Academic Skills (or qualifying SAT/ACT/GRE scores), Praxis Subject Assessments, Alaska Studies and Multicultural Education courses), and a background check. Total timeline is approximately 12–18 months traditional; Type M and ARTC pathways can place candidates in classrooms within months while coursework is completed in parallel.
- What exams are required to teach in Alaska?
- Alaska requires the following exams: Praxis Core Academic Skills (or qualifying SAT/ACT/GRE scores) (Basic reading, writing, and mathematics); Praxis Subject Assessments (Content knowledge for your certification area); Alaska Studies and Multicultural Education courses (Required state-specific coursework (3 semester credits each) for all initial certificates). Most are computer-based and offered year-round at testing centers.
- How long is a Alaska teaching license valid?
- The initial Initial Teacher Certificate is valid for 3 years. After meeting professional development and experience requirements, you can advance to the Professional Teacher Certificate which is valid for 5 years, renewable.
- Can I teach in Alaska with a license from another state?
- Alaska participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement. Out-of-state applicants with valid certificates typically receive an Alaska Initial Teacher Certificate after credential review; the state-specific Alaska Studies + Multicultural Education coursework must still be completed within the first three years.
- Are there alternative routes to teaching in Alaska?
- Type M Limited Teacher Certificate: Issued to candidates with demonstrated expertise in shortage areas (CTE, special education, rural placements); Alternative Routes to Teacher Certification (ARTC): University-affiliated programs that allow candidates to teach under a provisional certificate while completing pedagogy coursework; Type C Special Services Certificate for school counselors, psychologists, and related specialists; Teach For America (active in rural Alaska placements)