2026 Certification Guide
How to Become a Teacher in Mississippi
Everything you need to know to earn a Mississippi teaching certificate — from degree requirements and required exams to alternative routes and reciprocity.
Step-by-Step: Getting Certified in Mississippi
- 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
Mississippi requires passing state-approved assessments before certification is issued:
- Praxis Core Academic Skills (or qualifying ACT/SAT/GRE scores)Basic reading, writing, and mathematics
- Praxis Subject AssessmentsContent knowledge for your certification area
- 4
Apply for Your Certificate
Submit your application to Mississippi 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 Novice Educator License (valid 3 years) allows you to begin teaching. Advance to a Standard Educator 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 Mississippi
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.
- Mississippi Alternate Path to Quality Teachers (MAPT): Earn certification while teaching in a shortage area
- Teach For America (active in Mississippi Delta)
- Career and Technical Education licenses
- Special Educator Preparation and Leadership (SEPL) program
Out-of-State Certification & Reciprocity
Mississippi participates in the NASDTEC compact. Out-of-state educators with valid certificates may receive a Mississippi license; content exams may be required.
Tip: If you hold a valid teaching license from another state, contact Mississippi 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 Mississippi?
Now that you know how to get certified, find out what to expect to earn. Mississippi teachers start around $36,059 and average $49,534 per year statewide.
Mississippi Teacher Salary Guide →Ready to apply?
Browse current teaching positions in Mississippi — apply directly on district sites.
Data sources: Mississippi Department of Education. Certification requirements change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with Mississippi Department of Education before beginning a preparation program. EduJobsBoard is not affiliated with any state education department.
Frequently asked questions about teaching in Mississippi
- How do I become a teacher in Mississippi?
- Mississippi certification is administered by Mississippi 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 ACT/SAT/GRE scores), Praxis Subject Assessments), and a background check. Total timeline is approximately 12–18 months traditional; MAPT allows classroom entry immediately with completion over 3 years.
- What exams are required to teach in Mississippi?
- Mississippi requires the following exams: Praxis Core Academic Skills (or qualifying ACT/SAT/GRE scores) (Basic reading, writing, and mathematics); Praxis Subject Assessments (Content knowledge for your certification area). Most are computer-based and offered year-round at testing centers.
- How long is a Mississippi teaching license valid?
- The initial Novice Educator License is valid for 3 years. After meeting professional development and experience requirements, you can advance to the Standard Educator License which is valid for 5 years, renewable.
- Can I teach in Mississippi with a license from another state?
- Mississippi participates in the NASDTEC compact. Out-of-state educators with valid certificates may receive a Mississippi license; content exams may be required.
- Are there alternative routes to teaching in Mississippi?
- Mississippi Alternate Path to Quality Teachers (MAPT): Earn certification while teaching in a shortage area; Teach For America (active in Mississippi Delta); Career and Technical Education licenses; Special Educator Preparation and Leadership (SEPL) program