Alternative Teacher Certification Program - Texas A&M University

Alternative Certification Program (ACP)

Application Procedure
We recommend you print this procedure and refer to it as your go through each step.
Please note: All steps may be done simultaneously.

Step 1: Complete graduate application to Texas A&M University-Texarkana

Choose non-degree/certification seeking
Request that all official transcripts be mailed directly from granting institution to our Admission Office.

Step 2: Complete application to the Alternative Certification Program (ACP)

Step 3:            Print three reference forms. Select three individuals with knowledge of your abilities, performance and/or character. Submit completed forms to the ACP Office.

Step 4: Print “30 Hours of Classroom Observation” form.
Complete 30 hours of classroom observation in a Texas school and document on this form. Submit completed form to ACP Office. (You may utilize up to 9 hours as a Teacher’s Aide and/or as a Substitute Teacher. Attach letter from school to document.)

Step 5: Pay $50 ACP application fee.
Make check payable to Texas A&M University-Texarkana and submit directly to the ACP Office. Fee may be paid with credit card by contacting the Business Office
.
Step 6:            Register to take the content TExES exam in the field/area/level in which you wish to teach.   See So I Have to Take A Test?, Registration Procedure.

You will register as a PACT.
You will have a choice of taking by paper (PBT) or computer (CAT). The paper test is given approximately every 3 months. The computer test is available on a regular basis at special Computer Testing Centers. The closest ones are Texarkana, Arkadelphia, Tyler, Marshall and Commerce.

TExES Test Preparation:

Study Info: So I Have to Take A Test?, Study Info
Our students may check out study guides and take a practice test by contacting the ACP Office.

Admittance into the ACP:

Once all of above is completed and verified, the ACP Office will issue a letter of admittance and Statement of Eligibility to you.
You may begin your job search by completing applications to school districts and attending job fairs. Additional information will be emailed to you. You may access job applications and websites through “How Do I Find Employment?”
Register for coursework. Please contact the ACP Office for a Certificate Plan showing the courses you need to take. To register for courses, click on “Semester Schedule.”