View the requirements for Illinois licensure to determine what endorsements and grade levels are available so you apply appropriately. Create an account in the Educator Licensure Information System (ELIS). Once you create an account you can apply for the desired credential.

The information below is designed to provide educators with the information needed to become a licensed teacher in the state of Illinois, as well as opportunities for experienced teachers to expand their qualifications. View specific requirements for licensure by selecting a your desired credential below. Ready to get your license? View ...

Illinois offers multiple pathways to licensure. To find the route that best suits you, please review the options below. Did you complete an approved out-of-state educator preparation program and become licensed in that state? You can qualify for the …

To become a teacher in Chicago through the traditional route, you must earn a bachelor’s degree, complete a teacher preparation program, and pass several tests demonstrating your literacy skills, subject area knowledge, and teaching proficiency.

Join the CPS Teacher Residency—a full-time, paid teacher training program offering a bridge to teaching for career-changers.

Find Illinois educator licensing requirements, information about license renewal and reinstatement, professional development opportunities, and guidelines to become an approved professional development provider.

Obtaining your Professional Educators License (PEL) through Loyola's School of Education teacher preparation programs is essential if you wish to teach in CPS or other public school districts in Illinois. All of our licensure programs are approved through the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE).

University of Illinois at Chicago, DePaul University, National Louis University and Roosevelt University are four universities in Chicago that offer teacher degree programs that can help you earn certification.

The main steps for the traditional path to teacher certification in Illinois are: Complete a bachelor’s degree with a state-approved teacher preparation component. Complete a student teaching placement. Pass the required teacher certification exams. Apply for a …

In 2013, the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) changed its credentialing terms for educators from a certificate to a license. So what used to be called a “teaching certificate” in Illinois is now a Professional Educator License (PEL).