Frequently Asked Questions

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• Key Resources
• Communications and Collaborations
• Early Literacy in Educator Preparation
• Edwin
• ELAR and Security Portal
• Endorsements and Endorsement Import Spreadsheets
• Field-Based Experiences: Pre-Practicum
• Field-Based Experiences: Practicum Hours and Settings
• Field-Based Experiences: Practicum Supervision
• Field-Based Experiences: Candidate Assessment of Performance
• Field-Based Experiences: Other Performance Assessments
• Field-Based Experiences: Waivers for Field-Based Experiences
• Licensure
• MTEL
• Performance Assessment for Leaders (PAL)
• PK–2 Early Childhood Programs
• PK–12 School/District Partnership Resources
• Professional Standards for Teachers (PSTs) and Professional Standards & Indicators for Administrative Leadership (PSAL)
• Program Admission, Advising, Completion
• Program Approval: Formal Review
• Program Approval: Informal Review
• Program Approval: Early Literacy Reviews
• Program Approval: Other
• Program Changes and Updates
• Record Retention
• SEI Courses
• Stakeholder Surveys
• Subject Matter Knowledge Requirements
• Title II/State Annual Report
• Waivers
• Other DESE Resources
• View All

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Licensure

• What are the requirements for a specific license?
  • See the Licensure Requirements Search.
• How can I contact the Office of Educator Licensure?
  • In addition to their website, licensure resources include our Call Center (781-338-6600), available weekdays, 9:00 am to Noon and 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm and Walk-in Service Counter (135 Santilli Highway, Everett, weekdays, 8:45 am to 4:45 pm). Please bring a photo ID.
• Where can I find answers to questions for the Office of Educator Licensure?
  • See the Office of Educator Licensure FAQ page.
• What are the requirements for Emergency License extensions?
  • See the Emergency License webpage for more information.
• Is US citizenship required for a candidate to become a MA licensed educator?
  • No, US citizenship is not a requirement to become a MA licensed educator. If a candidate needs a MEPID and does not have a social security number, they should contact Christiana.Erekosima@mass.gov or call the Office of Educator Licensure at 781-338-6600. DESE does not regulate how districts and schools consider citizenship in their hiring decisions.

Last Updated: January 15, 2025