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Becoming a substitute teacher can be an excellent way to make the most of skills and talents while finding fulfillment. Not only is it a great opportunity to help out in one’s community, but it also allows the flexibility of choosing when and how often to work.

For those who decide to become a substitute teacher, the job can be beneficial as a source of income while completing a higher degree course like a master’s degree in education or while working another job, as it enables achieving both goals simultaneously.

Moreover, substitute teaching can be a great way to gain valuable classroom experience and make meaningful connections with teachers, administrators and other substitute teachers. It can also teach new skills, explore educational philosophies and gain exposure to various classroom environments. However, before taking on teaching as a profession, it’s crucial to understand the requirements associated with substitute teaching in various geographic areas.

In most states, the requirements to become a substitute teacher aren’t as time-consuming or specific as those necessary to be a full-time teacher. But��requirements differ��depending on which grade, school district or districts the sub works for, and the state they're in.

In general, an aspiring substitute teacher needs to have at least a��bachelor’s degree, although not necessarily a degree in education. Nor do substitute teachers need advanced degrees like a��master’s in education.

The exception may be with regard to long-term substitute teachers. These educators cover a regular teacher’s absence for several weeks or even months in events like maternity leave or extended sick leave, and they may be required to hold the same educational qualifications as a full-time teacher.

Teaching experience isn’t always a requirement to be hired as a substitute teacher, especially since��substitute teacher shortages��are common throughout the country. Depending on the school district, the hiring professionals may prefer applicants who have experience working with children and youth — but that’s also not a universal requirement.

For anyone planning to become a long-term substitute, teaching experience will help reach that goal. Some graduates from teaching programs will even use long-term substitute positions to get their foot in the door when looking for a permanent teaching position.

There’s��no universal credential for substitute teaching��in the United States, which means each state varies in its certification requirements.��Every state has certification requirements to become a substitute teacher, meaning what is required to obtain a permit can vary considerably.

For instance, some states only employ candidates with an��official teaching license, while other states merely require��passing a state course. Right now, the following��states ��in order to substitute teach:

• Alabama
• Colorado
• Iowa
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Missouri
• Montana
• Nebraska
• New Hampshire
• Oregon
• Pennsylvania
• West Virginia

For aspiring to become a substitute teacher, some states demand that applicants have a��bachelor’s degree, while others necessitate the��completion of college credits.��

The following states have such requirements:

• California
• Connecticut
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Kansas
• New Jersey
• Tennessee
• Wyoming

In some states, having��a��degree and passing a background check��are enough to apply to become a substitute teacher.

Check with the state’s Department of Education to determine which certification are needed to be eligible for hire.

Of the requirements to become a substitute teacher,��undergoing a background check is required in all states. Candidates should expect a background check to verify employment history, check references and document any criminal record. There may also be drug screening.��

Substitute teachers often��complete��safety training before they’re allowed to teach in a classroom. By providing safety training to substitute teachers, schools can better ensure the��ongoing protection of their students.��

As of May 2024, short-term substitute teachers��earned between , according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Pay can vary as a result of a number of factors including state, school, experience and industry.

BLS reports a of substitute teachers, with 20% of all substitute requests going unfulfilled.

Salary ranges are not specific to students or graduates of ���۴�ý. Actual outcomes vary based on multiple factors, including prior work experience, geographic location and other factors specific to the individual. ���۴�ý does not guarantee employment, salary level or career advancement. BLS data is geographically based. Information for a specific state/city can be researched on the BLS website.

While becoming a substitute��teacher for K-12��or higher education doesn’t require as much time commitment as becoming a full-time teacher, substitute teachers must still follow certain steps to be eligible for teaching positions.

Before applying for a position, it’s important to understand the requirements specific to a state or district. As mentioned, requirements vary from one area to the next, so be sure to know what’s expected for an application to be considered.

Common��state licensure requirements��include:

• Clearances: Fingerprint clearance, background checks, child abuse clearances and criminal records checks
• Verifications: Valid driver’s license, proof of education, professional references and certifications
• Exams: Passing an exam on substitute teaching competencies
• Clinical hours and practice: Practicing substitute teaching for a certain number of hours before applying for substitute teaching positions
• Certifications: Completing substitute teaching courses or taking continuing education classes to become certified as a substitute teacher

A substitute teacher resumé should accurately and concisely reflect a candidate's education credentials, relevant experience and volunteer positions. For example, an education resumé might include details such as the following:

• Teaching philosophy and approach
  
• Professional teaching experience
• Certifications related to teaching
• Education level (associate degree or higher)
• Awards and recognition for substitute teaching excellence

Most schools or states require substitute teachers to complete training after they have been hired. This could include attending orientation, taking substitute teaching classes��or completing online substitute teacher courses. In addition, some school districts offer specialized certifications to help further an education career.��

No matter the grade level,��several skills are helpful when working as a substitute teacher:

• Leadership: Strong leadership skills will prepare subs to take charge of a classroom and effectively manage student behavior. These skills will also help set the tone for a successful lesson, build relationships with students and create a positive learning environment.
• Clear communication: Communication skills will facilitate relationships with administrators, faculty and students. These skills will also help navigate many challenges.
• Organization: Monitoring students, lesson plans, classroom supplies and any materials needed to keep the classroom running smoothly is essential. Strong organizational skills can help manage time effectively and ensure what is needed to cover subjects in the allotted time.
• Flexibility: Plenty can go wrong when preparing lesson plans, teaching students and scheduling. Being adaptable, especially when working with students of various ages, can help efficiently handle last-minute changes.

Substitute teaching is a rewarding experience. Whether someone is looking for a part-time job or a way to gain teaching experience while working toward becoming a full-time teacher, working as a substitute teacher can provide a flexible and meaningful way to make a living.