2026 Certification Guide
How to Become a Teacher in South Carolina
Everything you need to know to earn a South Carolina teaching certificate — from degree requirements and required exams to alternative routes and reciprocity.
Step-by-Step: Getting Certified in South Carolina
- 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
South Carolina 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
- edTPAPerformance assessment during student teaching
- 4
Apply for Your Certificate
Submit your application to South Carolina 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 Teaching Certificate (valid 3 years) allows you to begin teaching. Advance to a Professional Teaching Certificate (5 years, renewable) by meeting additional requirements such as completing a mentorship program or additional coursework.
Alternative Paths to Certification in South Carolina
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.
- Program of Alternative Certification for Educators (PACE): Earn certification while teaching in a shortage area
- Teach For America (active in Columbia and rural SC)
- Career and Technical Education certification
Out-of-State Certification & Reciprocity
South Carolina participates in the NASDTEC compact. Out-of-state educators with valid certificates may receive a South Carolina certificate after evaluation; content exams may be required.
Tip: If you hold a valid teaching license from another state, contact South Carolina 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 South Carolina?
Now that you know how to get certified, find out what to expect to earn. South Carolina teachers start around $40,000 and average $55,368 per year statewide.
South Carolina Teacher Salary Guide →Ready to apply?
Browse current teaching positions in South Carolina — apply directly on district sites.
Data sources: South Carolina Department of Education. Certification requirements change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with South Carolina Department of Education before beginning a preparation program. EduJobsBoard is not affiliated with any state education department.