Massachusetts Initial School Counselor Certification

School Counselor Certification

by School Counselor Certification Staff

Updated: January 3rd, 2025

Initial Massachusetts School Counselor Certification

Aspiring school counselors in Massachusetts primarily navigate the Professional Support Personnel pathway to obtain certification. This comprehensive route, outlined in 603 CMR 7.11 (see Massachusetts Administrative Code), emphasizes a robust foundation in education and experience. While meeting all requirements is ideal, the Department of Education facilitates a Panel Review process for those who may not fully meet specific criteria, such as passing the Communication and Literacy Skills test. This flexibility ensures that qualified individuals with valuable experience and education can still pursue their career goals.

This guide will delve into the key aspects of the certification process, including educational prerequisites, testing requirements, background checks, and the application process through the ELAR portal. It will also explore the options for Elementary (pre-K-8) and Secondary (grades 5-12) certifications, and emphasize the importance of a well-rounded educational and experiential framework for successful school counselors in Massachusetts.

Education or Degree Requirements

Candidates aiming for initial school counselor certification must fulfill the following degree and educational criteria:

  • Practicum: Accumulate a minimum of 450 practicum hours in an educational setting.

Tips:

  • Opt for a reputable postgraduate program in school counseling, ensuring a curriculum that covers diverse counseling aspects.
  • Seek practicum opportunities aligned with educational contexts to gain practical experience.

Experience Requirements

Candidates must engage in a practicum of 450 hours within an educational setting, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge under experienced supervision.

Tips: Diverse practicum experiences more often lead to a more well-rounded understanding of the school counseling role.

Testing Requirements

To meet the testing requirements, candidates must pass the Communication and Literacy Skills test administered by the Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL).

  • Subtests: Reading (42 multiple-choice questions) and Writing (35 multiple-choice questions, 7 short-answer sentence correction items, and 2 open-response assignments).
  • Exam Fee: $112.
  • Exam Provider: Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL).

Background Checks

Background checks are essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of students. While not required for certification, your employing school district will require it prior to entering the school professionally.

  • Requirement: Complete fingerprint-based state and national background checks.
  • Fee: $55 for licensed professionals, including school counselors.

Application Process

The application for initial school counselor certification is submitted online through the Educator Licensure and Renewal (ELAR) portal. Key steps include:

  • Submission: Complete the application online via the Educator Licensure and Renewal (ELAR) portal.
  • Supporting Documents: Include a completed application, official transcripts, and proof of passing Communication and Literacy Skills exam scores.
  • Fees: The license application fee is $100 (Payable online through the ELAR portal).

Contact Information:

  • Licensure Call Center: (781) 338-6600 – (Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 1 PM and 2 PM to 5 PM).
  • Walk-In Welcome Center: The Department of Education, 1st floor, 75 Pleasant Street, Malden MA 02148, (Monday through Friday, 8:45 AM to 4:45 PM).

Note: Bring a photo identification card.