How to Obtain a School Counselor Educator License in Illinois

For those aspiring to work as a professional school counselor in K-12 school settings in Illinois, obtaining an Educator License through the Illinois State Board of Education is essential. This blog provides a comprehensive guide on how to navigate the licensure process, ensuring you meet all state laws and regulations.

Steps to Obtain a School Counselor Educator License

The licensure program provided by Northern Illinois University is certified by the Illinois State Board of Education. Upon completing the 60-semester hour program in school counseling, students are eligible to apply for Educator Licensure with an endorsement in School Counseling. This license allows graduates to work as a K-12 Professional School Counselor in Illinois.

1. Complete a Department-Level Entitlement Request Form

During your first academic term of program matriculation, you need to complete a department-level entitlement request form. This form is crucial as it starts your journey towards obtaining your Educator License.

2. Register and Pass the School Counselor Content Area Exam

Before starting your school counseling internship, you must register and pass the school counselor (181 or 235) content area exam. You can register through the Illinois Licensure Testing System and ensure your scores are sent to the Illinois State Board of Education.

3. Complete the Educator Licensure Process

Prior to your last semester of internship enrollment, you must complete the department application for Professional Educator License and Endorsement for School Counseling. This step involves submitting your official transcripts via email to transcripts@isbe.net or by mail to:

4. Receive Confirmation from Program-Level Licensure Liaison

After graduation, ensure that the appropriate paperwork has been submitted to the Illinois State Board of Education licensure office. You should receive confirmation from your program-level licensure liaison that this has been done.

5. Check ELIS Account for Status Change

Finally, look for an email from the Illinois State Board of Education and check your ELIS account for a "Completed Program" status change. This notice will inform you to redeem your license, which involves paying the associated licensure and registration fees.

By following these steps, you can successfully obtain your Educator License and start your career as a professional school counselor in Illinois.

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