Admissions: MEd and Teaching License

Prerequisite evaluations

Each MEd program requires prerequisite coursework based on content area. View a list of the prerequisites by program area that are required for admission to each teaching MEd and initial teaching license program.

Submit your unofficial transcript via email to the following contacts based on licensure area:

• English, Second Language Education: Contact CIAdviser1@umn.edu
• Social Studies, Science, Mathematics: Contact CIAdviser2@umn.edu
• Arts in Education: Contact artseducation@umn.edu
• Elementary Education: Contact elementaryed@umn.edu

Elementary Education Foundations majors do not need to complete this step.

Transcript evaluations can take up to four weeks to complete; please plan accordingly and request a transcript evaluation well in advance of the November 30 deadline.

Application instructions

Utilize the resources below to ensure you have all the required forms and documents needed to apply.

• Reference the application checklist.
• Use the following resources to help you through the required steps for the application and to answer questions that may come up along the way.
  • Resume writing video tutorial
  • CEHD career services resume help page
  • Essay writing video tutorial
• Apply online

We are here to help! If you have questions, please contact the advisor who completed your prerequisite evaluation. Email addresses are listed in the prerequisite section above.

Note: The Dual Language and Immersion license has a separate application process.

Application requirements

1. Prerequisite evaluation. Prior to applying you will want to work with an MEd advisor to have your transcripts reviewed. The MEd advisors will evaluate your coursework and determine which classes meet licensure-specific prerequisites. (Elementary Education Foundations majors do not need to complete this step).
2. A bachelor's degree from an accredited U.S. institution, or a comparable degree from a recognized college or university in another country, is required.
3. A 2.80 GPA or above is required for immediate consideration of your application. If your GPA is less than 2.8, your application will require special review. In this situation, an Extenuating Circumstances statement may be appropriate.
4. Transcripts. Unofficial transcripts from all previous institutions. Official transcripts aren't required until after you are admitted.
5. Resume. Tailor your resume to highlight your experiences and achievements working with children and youth.
6. Essay. Describe the world you come from--for example, your family, community or school. Tell us about a time when your worldview has informed and/or been challenged by working with children or youth. Reflecting on this and other experiences, how do you hope to grow as a reflective teacher through our program? Please submit an essay that is no longer than five pages, standard font-size, and double-spaced. Include your name at the top of each page.
7. Letter of recommendation. Ask someone to write your letter of recommendation who can speak to your experience working with children or youth, or who can vouch for your commitment to educational equity. When you apply, list the name and email of your recommender. We will email them with instructions on how to submit their letter into the UMN application system.
8. Diversity Statement. Given the well-documented racial, ethnic, and/or cultural differences between teachers and the students they teach in K-12 spaces, what have you done to further your knowledge and understanding about equity and diversity? How have you demonstrated your learning? Please submit a response that is no longer than two pages, standard font-size, and double-spaced. Include your name at the top of each page.
9. Extenuating circumstances statement (optional). While this is not required, if there is something on your transcript that does not accurately reflect who you are as a student, please write no more than 500 words documenting unusual circumstances or hardships you have faced and the ways in which you have overcome or responded to them.
10. Application fees are $75 for US applicants and $95 for international students.

The GRE is not required.