2026 Certification Guide
How to Become a Teacher in Kansas
Everything you need to know to earn a Kansas teaching certificate — from degree requirements and required exams to alternative routes and reciprocity.
Step-by-Step: Getting Certified in Kansas
- 1
Complete Your Education
Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. 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
Kansas 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 licensure area
- 4
Apply for Your Certificate
Submit your application to Kansas State Department of Education, 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 License (valid 5 years) allows you to begin teaching. Advance to a Professional License (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 Kansas
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.
- Restricted License: For those with content expertise hired by a district, completing coursework over 5 years
- Career and Technical Education licenses for industry professionals
- Teach For America (active in Kansas City metro and rural Kansas)
Out-of-State Certification & Reciprocity
Kansas participates in the NASDTEC compact. Out-of-state educators with valid certificates receive reciprocal review; content exams may still be required.
Tip: If you hold a valid teaching license from another state, contact Kansas State Department of Education directly about your reciprocity options before re-taking any exams. Many states streamline the process for experienced educators.
What Will You Earn in Kansas?
Now that you know how to get certified, find out what to expect to earn. Kansas teachers start around $33,000 and average $52,913 per year statewide.
Kansas Teacher Salary Guide →Ready to apply?
Browse current teaching positions in Kansas — apply directly on district sites.
Data sources: Kansas State Department of Education. Certification requirements change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with Kansas State Department of Education before beginning a preparation program. EduJobsBoard is not affiliated with any state education department.
Frequently asked questions about teaching in Kansas
- How do I become a teacher in Kansas?
- Kansas certification is administered by Kansas State Department of Education. The standard path is a Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution from an approved teacher-prep program, completion of state-required exams (Praxis Core Academic Skills (or qualifying SAT/ACT/GRE scores), Praxis Subject Assessments), and a background check. Total timeline is approximately 12–18 months traditional; Restricted License allows immediate classroom entry with coursework completion over 5 years.
- What exams are required to teach in Kansas?
- Kansas 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 licensure area). Most are computer-based and offered year-round at testing centers.
- How long is a Kansas teaching license valid?
- The initial Initial License is valid for 5 years. After meeting professional development and experience requirements, you can advance to the Professional License which is valid for 5 years, renewable.
- Can I teach in Kansas with a license from another state?
- Kansas participates in the NASDTEC compact. Out-of-state educators with valid certificates receive reciprocal review; content exams may still be required.
- Are there alternative routes to teaching in Kansas?
- Restricted License: For those with content expertise hired by a district, completing coursework over 5 years; Career and Technical Education licenses for industry professionals; Teach For America (active in Kansas City metro and rural Kansas)