To become a licensed teacher in Minnesota public schools, here’s what you’ll need to do: 

1. Earn a bachelor’s degree (or meet alternative criteria like having experience in a skilled trade)
2. Complete a Minnesota teacher prep program
3. Apply for a Tier 3 license through the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board, or PELSB

Learn About Licensing

Here’s a quick overview of Minnesota’s four-tier teaching license system and how it works:

Most future teachers aim for Tier 3 after completing their degree and teacher prep program. 

Many school staff hold Tier 1 licenses while working in the classroom. To grow into a Tier 2 or Tier 3 license, you’ll usually need to complete a Minnesota teacher preparation program. 

Some programs are designed with current school staff in mind. You can keep working in your school while earning your teaching license. 

Explore programs. 

Already have significant teaching experience but haven’t completed a traditional teacher prep program?

The Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board, a.k.a. PELSB offers a licensure via portfolio route. You can demonstrate your knowledge and classroom skills through a structured portfolio process to qualify for a Tier 3 license. 

Learn more teacher licensure via portfolio. 

From scholarships to tuition assistance, there are programs that can help cover the cost of becoming a teacher.

See financial aid options.

Looking for an earn-while-you-learn option? These Minnesota schools offer residency or apprenticeship programs, where you can work in a classroom and get paid while earning your teaching license: 

• Hamline University
• Southwest Minnesota State University
• St. Mary’s University of Minnesota
• University of Minnesota Twin Cities
• University of St. Thomas 
• Winona State University

Learn More. 

Your school district may offer: 

• Scholarships and grants
• Grow Your Own teacher programs
• Paid student teaching options
• Mentorship and career guidance

Be sure to ask your HR department or school leadership about opportunities in your district. 

These Minnesota school districts and charter schools offer Grow Your Own teacher programs:

• Burnsville School District
• Eagle Ridge Academy
• Edina Public Schools
• Fridley Public Schools
• Minneapolis Public Schools
• North St. Paul-Maplewood-Oakdale School District
• Robbinsdale School District
• Rosemount Apple Valley Eagan ISD
• St. Paul Public Schools
• Star of the North Academy
• Success Academy