Connecticut Teacher Certification Guide
To teach in Connecticut, you’ll need to complete a few steps. Read this page for more info or download our full PDF guide!

Pathways to Teaching
Your path to teaching will partly depend on your background. Get an overview here, and download our free guide for more details!
Select the tab that fits you best.
"Schools are more than just places where students learn how to read and write — they're communities. They're like second families to our students." — Dr. Miguel Cardona, U.S. Secretary of Education
Get Your Connecticut Teacher Certification
- 1
Choose your teaching subject and certification area
Your certification area (also called your endorsement area) will depend on the subject and grade level you want to teach. You'll need to choose both before you start teaching.
Getting certified in a shortage area can provide more opportunities and even higher pay!
- 2
Earn a bachelor’s degree
In general, your bachelor’s degree should be in a field closely related to what you want to teach. If you have a degree in a different subject than the one you want to teach, you may be able to take post-baccalaureate courses to get the credits you need.
Connecticut accepts degrees from a large number of universities, but you should confirm that yours is regionally accredited.
Paying for your program can feel like a lot. That's where our Financial Aid Guide comes in: Get our best tips to find grants, scholarships, loan forgiveness opportunities and other ways to cover your costs!
- 3
Complete an approved Connecticut teaching program
You can complete a teaching program as part of your undergrad coursework, or by applying to a teaching program after you earn your bachelor’s degree. Make sure to choose a program that offers your chosen certification area!
Explore Connecticut teaching programs.
TEACH Connecticut can help you save money on teaching program applications! We’ll reimburse up to $100 for any expenses required for you to apply to a teaching program (like application fees, transcript fees and more). Get $100 back.
- 4
Pass required tests
You’ll have to take a few tests to show you’re ready to lead your own classroom. These include a subject matter exam and a teaching portfolio.
The timing of these tests will depend on your teaching program. Some programs will have you take the subject test before you enroll. Others will have you take this test during your program or after you finish. In general, you’ll complete the teaching portfolio toward the end of your program.
Stressed about testing? You're not alone! Our Testing Guide covers everything from how to register to study tips and resources.
- 5
Apply for your teacher certification
Almost there! After you’ve completed a teaching program and passed your exams, it’s time to apply for your teacher certification. Your teaching program must formally recommend you for certification.
Your program can help you with your application. Once you’ve applied, processing time usually takes six to twelve weeks. By creating an online account with the Connecticut Educator Certification System, you can pay fees online, check the status of your application, or print unofficial copies of your certificates and permits
Get the Guide

The TEACH Connecticut Certification Guide has everything you need to start your journey: Get details about teaching pathways, certification areas and steps to certification, all in one place.
It’s all free.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s next
Connecticut Program Explorer
Ready to explore teaching programs? Find the right fit with our Program Explorer! Filter by degree, online options, tuition costs and more. You can even save favorites to revisit later.
Explore ProgramsConnecticut Guides
Applying to teaching programs or jobs? TEACH Connecticut can help, with step-by-step advice and downloadable templates. From resumes to recommendations, test prep to financial aid, we'll tell you everything you need to know to apply with confidence.
Read MoreCareer Coaching in Connecticut
Have questions about becoming a certified CT teacher? Talk to an expert. Attend a group info session or get 1-on-1 advice on what to teach and how to choose and apply to the right program. It's all free.
Read MoreReferences
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“Teacher Pay and Spending: How Does Your State Rank?” National Education Association.
April 24, 2023. https://www.nea.org/resource-library/educator-pay-and-student-spending-how-does-your-state-rank