When you apply for your teaching certificate, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania requires you to indicate if you are a citizen of the United States. If you are not a citizen of the United States, you will follow a special set of policies and procedures to obtain a Pennsylvania Instructional I Teaching Certificate. The specific procedure that you follow will depend upon your particular citizenship status and personal circumstances. For this reason, Messiah College does not provide official guidance or advice to teacher-certification students who are citizens of countries other than the United States. Furthermore, the Messiah College Certification Office will not interpret the policies and procedures of the Pennsylvania Department of Education regarding certification for non-United States citizens.
The Messiah College Certification Office will assist you in identifying relevant information and resource persons from the Pennsylvania Department of Education. However, obtaining accurate information and following the appropriate procedures for your particular circumstances is ultimately your responsibility.
Please note the following information resources:
1. The Pennsylvania Department of Education provides information about certification for Foreign-Educated Graduates on its website. This website provides valuable information for non-U.S. citizens who are pursuing teacher certification at a college or university in the United States.
3. Read page 2, number 11 of Form PDE 338G. The instructions for this essential PA certification form have specific directions for non-U.S. citizens.
4. For further information or clarification of regulations governing the certification of non-U.S. citizens, please contact the Pennsylvania Department of Education, Bureau of Teacher Certification and Preparation, 717-787-3356.
