Mississippi Initial School Counselor Certification

School Counselor Certification

by School Counselor Certification Staff

Updated: January 14th, 2025

Initial Mississippi School Counselor Certification

Obtaining an Initial School Counselor license in Mississippi entails fulfilling specific criteria to ensure competence and suitability for the role. Prospective candidates can pursue three distinct pathways (AA / AAA / AAAA) to meet educational requirements: completing a master’s degree program specializing in guidance and counseling alongside a five (5)-year educator license, achieving an accredited master’s degree in guidance and counseling with internship experience and meeting academic benchmarks, or holding a National Certified School Counselor (NCSC) credential (see Mississippi Licensing Guidelines).

The application process involves completing an online or mail-in application via the Mississippi Educator Career Continuum Archive (MECCA) System, submitting official transcripts, and providing proof of passing exam scores. While there’s no specified licensure application review fee, applicants are advised to consult the Mississippi Department of Education website for updates on associated fees. Expert support is available through the Mississippi Department of Education’s license division during weekdays via phone or email.

For more specific information on each step, follow below:

Education or Degree Requirements

To become a licensed School Counselor in Mississippi, individuals have three (3) options to meet the educational requirements:

Option 1 (AA Licensure):

  • Five (5)-Year Educator License: Obtain a five (5)-year educator license in Mississippi.
  • Pass Praxis II Exam: Successfully pass the Praxis II exam specifically designed for guidance counseling. This exam assesses the knowledge and skills necessary for effective counseling in educational settings.

Option 2 (AAA Licensure):

  • Accredited Master’s Degree Program: Complete an accredited master’s degree program in guidance and counseling, which includes a year-long internship. This internship provides practical experience in a school counseling setting.
  • Achieve ACT Score Equivalent or Praxis CORE Exam: Attain a score equivalent to 21 on the ACT or meet the nationally recommended passing score on the Praxis CORE exam. The Praxis CORE exam evaluates academic skills in reading, writing, and mathematics.
  • Maintain GPA: Maintain a minimum GPA of 2.75 in pre-major coursework related to counseling.
  • Pass Praxis II Exam: Successfully pass the Praxis II exam in guidance counseling.

Option 3 (AAAA Licensure):

  • Hold NCSC Credential: Obtain the National Certified School Counselor (NCSC) credential issued by the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC).

Regardless of the option chosen, aspiring School Counselors should also consider networking with professionals in the field, seeking mentorship opportunities, and staying updated on best practices and trends in school counseling. Additionally, gaining relevant experience through internships, volunteer work, or part-time employment can further strengthen your skills and readiness for a career in school counseling.

Experience Requirements

If the candidate currently needs to possess MS Teaching Certification, they will be required to undertake a comprehensive year-long internship program.

Testing Requirements

The Praxis® School Counselor test, designated as exam code 5422, evaluates the proficiency of aspiring school counselors in adhering to the ASCA School Counselor Professional Standards & Competencies. This assessment gauges whether candidates possess the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities essential for effective professional practice in the field of school counseling, spanning grades pre-K through 12. Successful completion of this examination is a prerequisite for certification as a Guidance Counselor K-12. The examination fee (instructional support personnel/Guidance Counselor K-12) amounts to $130.00, with a qualifying score set at 153.

Background Checks

Background checks are required to ensure the safety and suitability of individuals working in schools, especially when dealing with students. It helps identify any past criminal history or other concerning issues that might affect the individual’s ability to work effectively with students. However, there is no pre-application requirement for criminal background checking.

Application Process

The application process involves the following steps:

  • Submit official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended, including transfer credits leading to earned degrees.
  • Provide proof of passing scores from the Professional School Counselor Exam (ETS Test Code 5422).
  • If submitting by mail, send all supporting documents in a single, complete packet to the Mississippi Department of Education, Office of Educator License, P.O. Box 771,  Jackson MS 39205-0771.

There is no licensure application review fee mentioned. However, applicants should refer to the Mississippi Department of Education website for any updates on fees.

The Instructional Support Personnel Licensure (School Counselor K-12) Application Checklist contains the following:

  • Submission of an online recommendation by an educator preparation provider in Mississippi upon fulfillment of requirements for the School Counselor licensure program is mandatory before applying for licensure.
  • Prospective educators should access the online recommendation through their Educator Management System account.
  • Completing the Verification of Lawful Presence (VLP) form is required if not previously submitted.
  • Official transcripts, encompassing all degrees and coursework, including a masters degree or higher in School Counseling with evidence of a full-year internship, must be provided.
  • A Test Score Report from the appropriate testing company for the School Counselor Praxis Assessment is necessary.
  • If adding a School Counselor as an endorsement, the online recommendation is not obligatory.

If you require support with your School Counselor license application, feel free to reach out to the Mississippi Department of Education’s license division at 601-359-3483. Expert assistance is accessible on weekdays from 9 AM to 4 PM CST. Alternatively, you can contact a specialist via email at teachersupport@mdek12.org.