Directions for Applying for an Initial Professional Service License for School Counseling Through Reciprocity (Out-of-State Programs)

Use this process if you do not hold a valid Iowa teaching license and meet one of the following criteria:

  • You have completed at least 75% of a master’s degree program in school counseling.
  • You have completed a master’s degree program in school counseling at an out-of-state institution.

Before You Begin

The following requirements need to be met and have the appropriate documentation:

  1. Official U.S. Department of Education accredited college/university transcripts of your preparation. Include all transcripts (undergraduate and graduate).
  2. Verification of all previous professional school counseling experience.
  3. Form completed by the advising or recommending official from your preparation program or copy of counseling license issued by another state.
  4. Mandatory reporter training for child abuse and completion certificate.

Completing the Online Application

  1. Go to the Apply webpage under Educator Licensure.
    1. Have your folder number ready if you already hold a license.
    2. Use the License Search if you are unsure of you folder number or unsure if you have one.
  2. From the Apply webpage, select either:

    1. Create a new account (if you have never use our online application system)

      or

    2. Log In (if you already have an account)
  3. Once you have created an account or logged in, select New Application or Renew.
  4. Confirm your profile information and select Next.
  5. Select Apply for a new License.
  6. Select Professional Area: Support Services
  7. Select Application: First Prof Svc Counsel (Out of State Institution)
  8.  The system will now have you:
    1. Agree to creating an application, read through the instructions and scroll to the red X’s.
    2. Complete a checklist
      1. This is where you will agree to FBI fingerprinting and click on BOEE Instructions for using Fieldprint to schedule your appointment. Note: There is a code in the instructions you will need.
      2. It is important to read each checklist question so you create an accurate application.
    3. Upload the required documents.
    4. Pay the fees/Submit application.