Applying for Initial Certification

Candidates are strongly encouraged to apply for certification at the time of program completion, even if they do not intend to teach at that time. Those who delay requesting certification may need to complete additional program requirements prior to being certified.

Use this Pre-certification Checklist to keep track of the requirements for certification

Do not apply to the state for certification prior to being recommended for certification by the Certification Office. Doing so may result in additional fees and a delay in certification.

There are three steps in certification by entitlement.

Step 1 (candidate):

During the final term of the program, candidates must apply for certification online or through a paper process.

Online (via NLU Portal):

1. Log into your portal account.
2. On the right side of the portal home page, select "Request for Initial Certification by Entitlement."
   
3. Complete the form online. Be sure to print a copy for your records before pressing the "Submit Form Online" box. You will receive a message stating "Thank you for your submission" when your form has been successfully submitted.

Via paper process:

1. Complete the NLU Request for Certification by Entitlement form and send it to the Certification Office in the Office of Admissions and Records (OAR). The Request for Certification by Entitlement form can be filled out and submitted anytime in the term.
2. Download and complete the application for certification (Form 73-03C) and print, sign, and mail this form to the Certification Office in the Office of Admissions and Records or drop it off at any Student Services desk. The address for the certification office is:

*unsigned or faxed forms will be returned to the candidate

Step 2 (Certification Office):

After verifying that the requirements are met, the NLU Certification Office will send an electronic entitlement notice of the candidate's certification eligibility to the state.

The Certification Office cannot recommend certification by entitlement until all of a candidate's documentation is available. This will typically be after the end of the term and, where applicable, after award of degrees.

Candidates will be notified via NLU email when this step is completed. If the candidate submitted Form 73-03C to the Certification Office, it will be returned to the student, with University signature and seal, via USPS.

Step 3 (the candidate):

The candidate is required to complete the process of becoming certified by submitting the application and the $75 application fee to the state.

Do not apply to the state for certification prior to being recommended for certification by the Certification Office. Doing so may result in additional fees and a delay in certification.

To complete the application process online
To complete the application process through the ROE