Illinois · Career guide
How to become a School Psychologist in Illinois
School psychologists conduct psychoeducational evaluations, support IEP eligibility determinations, provide individual and group counseling, and coordinate multi-tiered systems of support. The role typically requires an Ed.S. (60-graduate-credit specialist degree) and is one of the most acute shortage areas in the country — districts routinely contract out psych services because they can't hire enough W-2 staff.
No school psychology positions are open in Illinois right now — set up an alert and we'll notify you when new postings are scraped.
Certification path in Illinois
- Earn a bachelor's degree. Most candidates complete a teacher-preparation program either as part of their undergraduate studies or as a post-baccalaureate add-on.
- Pass the required exams. Illinois typically requires:
- Illinois Licensure Testing System (ILTS) Test of Academic Proficiency (TAP) — Basic skills assessment
- ILTS Content Area Assessment — Subject matter knowledge for your area
- edTPA — Performance assessment during student teaching
School psychology requires an Ed.S. (60-credit specialist) or a related master's + internship + national certification (NCSP) recognized by most states.
- Apply for your initial license through Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE). The packet typically includes official transcripts, exam scores, a background check, and (depending on the state) a recommendation from the teacher-prep program. Visit Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) →
- Job-search in Illinois. We'll track school psychology openings as districts post them; set up an alert to be notified immediately when new positions go live.
Alternative pathways in Illinois
If you didn't follow the traditional university-route, Illinois offers these alternate paths that may apply to your situation:
- Illinois Alternative Educator Licensure — for career changers employed by a district
- Teach For America (active in Chicago)
- Chicago Teaching Fellows
- Career and Technical Education licenses
Illinois salary context
Average teacher salary in Illinois: $67,882/year (rank #9 nationally). Entry-level pay with a bachelor's typically starts at $38,000/year.
Role-specific premiums vary by district — special education, STEM, and bilingual roles frequently command signing bonuses or stipends. See the full Illinois salary guide for the breakdown.