How to Become a Teacher

Alternative Certification Program
Houston Independent School District

Application Process

Phase 1

Phase 2

Phase 3

Application

  • Submit application and fee
  • Meet GPA minimum requirement
  • Review THEA results
  • Review transcripts

Sample Lesson

  • In person or video submission

Math Assessment

Structured interviews

Reference Check

Essay

  • All phases are sequential. Applicants will be notified by email of status after each phase in the application process. Refer to Timeline Tab for application cycle dates.
  • Double Benefit: The screening process for Houston ISD Alternative Certification Program is the same process for Teacher Selection Process to be eligible for teaching positions in HISD. Successful completion provides acceptance into the HISD teacher candidate pool and HISD ACP. Click here for information on the HISD District and ACP teacher selection phases.

General Program Requirements

  • Four-year college degree from an accredited university, 2.5 overall grade-point average (GPA) on a 4.0 scale or 2.75 in the last 60 hours.**
  • 3.0 grade point average on bachelors degree transcript or passing scores on the writing and math portions of the Texas Higher Education Assessment (THEA) test and a score of 250 or higher on the reading portion of the THEA.
  • Meet standards of interview process
  • Must be able to meet program costs
  • Meet certification area requirements