Important: This guide provides general information for foreign-trained professionals seeking US licensure. International licensing pathways change frequently. Always verify requirements directly with the credential evaluation agency, state licensing board, and — for visa questions — a qualified immigration attorney. LicenseMap does not provide legal or immigration advice.
Nigeria-Trained Teacher License in Illinois
Key Facts
- State
- Illinois (IL)
- Licensing Board
- Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE)
- US Exam
- Praxis
- Timeline
- 6–18 months
- Est. Cost Range
- $1,500–$4,000
- Credential Eval
- WES or ECE
Illinois Requirements for Nigerian Teachers
To practice as a teacher in Illinois, internationally educated applicants must have their B.Ed. (Bachelor of Education) / NCE (Nigeria Certificate in Education) evaluated for US equivalency and pass the Praxis (or state-specific equivalent). Illinois may have additional state-specific requirements such as jurisprudence exams, supervised practice hours, or continuing education.
NCE is a 3-year post-secondary certificate and may not be evaluated as equivalent to a bachelor's degree. B.Ed. holders generally have an easier path. For the full list of Illinois teacher licensing requirements including fees, education prerequisites, and renewal details, see the complete Illinois teacher license guide.
All applicants must complete a background check as part of the Illinois application process. Fingerprinting requirements vary by state.
Step-by-Step: Nigeria to Illinois
- Get credentials evaluated by WES or ECE (general credential evaluation) — submit official transcripts and degree certificate from Nigeria.
- Meet English proficiency requirements — typically via TOEFL iBT. Check Illinois board for minimum scores.
- Pass the Praxis — the same licensing exam required of US-educated teachers. State-specific teacher certification required. Many states offer alternative certification pathways for internationally educated teachers..
- Apply to the Illinois licensing board — submit your credential evaluation, exam results, and application fee.
- Complete background check — fingerprinting and criminal history review as required by Illinois.
Estimated Costs for Illinois
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Credential Evaluation (WES or ECE) | $200–$500 |
| English Proficiency Exam | ~$200–$300 |
| Praxis Exam | Varies |
| Illinois Application Fee | Varies by state |
| Background Check / Fingerprinting | ~$30–$100 |
| Estimated Total | $1,500–$4,000 |
Costs are approximate. See the full Illinois teacher guide for detailed, state-specific fee information.
Full Illinois Teacher License Guide
For complete details on Illinois licensing requirements including education prerequisites, exam info, fees, renewal, and reciprocity — see the full state guide.
View Illinois Teacher Requirements