For Out-of-State Applicants to Alaska

Alaska accepts Out of State (OOS) Certificates as the most common and easiest methods to become a certified teacher in Alaska. A current, valid Out-of-State teaching certificate can be used to apply for the extendable one-year Initial OOS certificate. Please complete an Initial Out-of-State (OOS) application (PDF).

To become a certified teacher, you will need to complete an Initial Out-of-State (OOS) application (PDF). You must also include your transcripts showing at least a bachelor's degree, a copy of your current teaching certificate, a fingerprint card, and the required fees. Your teaching certificate needs to be valid when you are scheduled to start a contract and verifiable online, otherwise Teacher Certification needs an original teaching certificate.

At no cost, you can extend the OOS certificate to a second year by submitting passing scores on a Basic Competency Exam such as the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators (Core).

Also at no cost, you can extend the OOS certificate to a third and final year by submitting transcripts for an Alaska Multicultural Course and an Alaska Studies Course (PDF).

Before your Initial OOS expires, you will file for the Professional certificate, or without the 2 years teaching experience requirement, the Second Initial; both of which require a Content Area Exam (PDF).

If your Initial certificate expires before you qualify for the extension(s) or the Professional/Second Initial, please contact the Alaska Teacher Certification staff at tcwebmail@alaska.gov.

Visit Alaska's Teacher Certification website for more information.