- 1). Visit SCTeachers.org to request the packet, which will include necessary forms and a fingerprinting card for out-of-state applicants. You can also call the office at 803-734-8466 (out of state) or 877-885-5280 (in state), but inquiries are taken only from 1 to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday
- 2). Complete the application included in the packet. You'll provide personal information such as your name, Social Security number and date of birth. In addition, you'll detail your education, national board certification status, teacher examination scores and teaching experience.
- 3). Request your teacher examination scores from the Educational Testing Service in Princeton, N.J. ETS will send official scores directly to the certification office. Contact ETS as 800-772-9476 or ETS.org. Double-check SCTeachers.org to get information about testing requirements for specific endorsement areas. For initial certification, you likely will have to submit scores from the PPST (Pre-Professional Skills Test); the Praxis II: PLT (Principles of Learning and Teaching); and the Praxis II: Subject tests in your specialty area.
- 4). Arrange to be fingerprinted. In-state applicants can schedule an appointment online. Out-of-state applicants must take the fingerprinting card to their local police station and be fingerprinted. In each case, the cost of processing in June 2010 was $54.25. Mail the fingerprinting card and fee to L-1 Enrollment Services, ATTN: SC Card Scan, 1650 Wabash Ave Suite D, Springfield, IL 62704-5370. Do not send the fingerprinting card to the certification office.
- 5). Request official transcripts from each college or university you attended. You can have them sent directly to the certification office or submit sealed transcripts with your completed application packet. Most schools charge a small fee for official transcripts.
- 6). Send the recommendation form included in the packet--with personal data complete--to the college or university where you completed your teacher education. The school must send the recommendation form directly to the certification office, so include a self-addressed, stamped envelope.
- 7). Submit the application fee, which in June 2010 was $95. The fee is nonrefundable and may be paid online with a credit card or by check payable to "South Carolina Department of Education." The application fee is separate from the fingerprinting fee.
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