Out-of-State Completers
If you completed your teacher prep program in another state, you can still become licensed to teach in Mississippi.
License Details
This pathway is designed for educators who finished a traditional, state-approved, or nationally accredited licensure-track program outside Mississippi; whether you’re a new grad or a seasoned teacher moving in. As long as the program is from an accredited institution and meets Mississippi state requirements, candidates can apply to transfer their credentials. It’s a straightforward route for experienced or newly certified teachers moving into Mississippi’s school system.
This pathway applies to:
- Teachers
- Administrators
- Certain supplemental service providers
- Candidates for supplemental endorsements
Requirements
You’re eligible if you:
- Completed a licensure-track teacher preparation program at a regionally or nationally accredited college or university outside Mississippi
- Obtain an official Institutional Program Verification (IPV) form from your program
- Pass the State Board-approved licensure assessments after your IPV is reviewed by Mississippi’s licensure office
Approved Subjects
This pathway applies broadly to most subject areas and license types as long as:
- Your program was completed at an accredited institution
- You meet Mississippi’s testing and documentation standards
For Elementary and certain Special Education licenses, the Foundations of Reading exam is also required.
License Duration
- The initial license is valid for five years
- It’s renewable and can be upgraded to a higher class level based on credentials
- You can add endorsements through coursework, approved programs, or subject-area tests
- The license is transferable between public districts and eligible nonpublic schools in Mississippi
Restrictions
- You must provide the Institutional Program Verification (IPV) form from your original educator prep program
- All required assessments must be passed after your IPV is verified by a licensure specialist
- Degrees and coursework must come from a regionally or nationally accredited institution
Next Steps
Apply for your teaching license using our online portal, MECCA. To create your MECCA account, simply click “Sign up now” under the sign in button on the MECCA login page.