Montana School Counselor Certification Reciprocity

School Counselor Certification

by School Counselor Certification Staff

Updated: January 29th, 2025

Certification for Out-of-State School Counselors

Reciprocity is not an option in Montana for applicants from outside the state. For out-of-state school counselors seeking Class 6 Specialist School Counselor Certification in Montana, the process involves several steps outlined below:

Gather and Submit Required Documents:

  • Start by providing a copy of your current out-of-state School Counselor license.
  • Provide proof of completion of either a Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Education Program (CACREP) accredited Counseling program, along with a 600-hour school-based internship, or obtain a masters degree in School Counseling from a regionally accredited institution, including the completion of a 600-hour school-based internship.
  • You’ll also need to complete the free online course titled “An Introduction to Indian Education for All in Montana” and furnish official transcripts from all previously attended colleges/universities.
  • You must also satisfy the background check requirement, and opt for either a name-based or fingerprint-based background check.
  • Provide proof of passing the Professional School Counselor Exam (ETS Test Code 5422).

Complete Application:

  • Submit your application online on TeachMT, Montana’s licensing system. Ensure all requisite information and documents are prepared for submission.
  • Prepare to remit the applicable licensure fee, totaling $95 plus an additional $10, as part of the application procedure.
  • Following the submission of your application, anticipate a review by the Montana Board of Public Education. Please be aware that this review process may take some time, so exercising patience is advised.

By adhering to these steps and fulfilling the prerequisites established by the Montana Board of Public Education, out-of-state School Counselors can pursue Class 6 Specialist School Counselor Certification in Montana.