Teaching in Canada is a rewarding career, but it’s also a regulated profession. That means you must meet provincial certification requirements before you can work as a teacher. If you’re wondering how to become a teacher in Canada, then this article is for you. It contains all the details that you need to know about obtaining a Teacher certification in Canada.
The good news? Canada has a growing demand for educators, and the federal government has added teaching to Express Entry’s category-based draws, making it easier for qualified teachers to immigrate. Obtaining a Teacher certification in Canada can also lead to a very rewarding career.
This guide covers:
- Provincial certification requirements for teachers
- How to apply as an internationally trained educator
- Types of teaching jobs in Canada (full-time, supply, LTO)
- Express Entry pathways for teachers
Step-by-Step: How to Get Certified to Teach in Canada
Step 1: Check Eligibility Requirements
Each province has its own rules, but most require:
✔ A recognized Bachelor’s degree (foreign degrees need an Educational Credential Assessment – ECA)
✔ Teacher training program (with practical experience)
✔ Language proficiency (English or French, depending on the province)
✔ Proof of good moral character (criminal record check, references)
Additional Requirements in Some Provinces:
- Ontario: Must complete the Sexual Abuse Prevention Program (SAPP)
- British Columbia: Internationally trained teachers must take a familiarization course
- Alberta, Quebec, etc.: May have extra steps for certain teaching categories
Step 2: Apply for Certification
Submit your application to the provincial regulatory body with:
- ID documents (passport, birth certificate)
- Police clearance certificate
- Official transcripts & teaching credentials
- Proof of language proficiency (IELTS, TEF, etc.)
- Application fee (varies by province)
Pro Tip: If your documents aren’t in English/French, you’ll need certified translations.
Step 3: Get Certified (Full or Interim License)
- Some provinces (like Alberta) grant interim certification first, allowing you to teach while working toward full certification.
- Others (like Ontario) require full certification before you can teach.
You can apply in just 60 seconds – Take the free online assessment test and find out the best immigration options for you.
Where to Apply for Teacher Certification (By Province)
| Province | Certification Body |
|---|---|
| Alberta | Alberta Education |
| British Columbia | BC Ministry of Education |
| Ontario | Ontario College of Teachers |
| Quebec | Ministère de l’Éducation |
New in 2024: Some provinces use Pathways to Teach Canada, a streamlined application system for internationally trained teachers.
Types of Teaching Jobs in Canada
1. Full-Time (Permanent) Teachers
- 10-month contracts (summers off)
- Unionized positions with pension benefits
- Pay scales based on experience & qualifications
2. Supply (Substitute) Teachers
- On-call work (daily assignments)
- Flexible schedule (good for gaining experience)
- Paid per day
3. Long-Term Occasional (LTO) Teachers
- Temporary full-time contracts (e.g., covering maternity leave)
- Lasts weeks to a full school year
- Can lead to permanent positions
You can apply in just 60 seconds – Take the free online assessment test and find out the best immigration options for you.
Public vs. Catholic Schools in Canada
- Public Schools: Secular, no religious requirements
- Catholic Schools: May require teachers to be practicing Catholics
Express Entry for Teachers: New Immigration Pathway
In 2025, Canada added education jobs to Express Entry’s category-based draws, including:
- Early childhood educators
- Elementary & secondary school teachers
- Special needs instructors
Why This Matters:
- Lower CRS score requirements than general Express Entry draws
- Faster PR pathway for qualified teachers
Final Tips for Aspiring Teachers in Canada
- Start the certification process early (it can take months).
- Check provincial requirements before applying.
- Consider supply/LTO roles to gain Canadian experience.
- Explore Express Entry’s education category for PR.
Ready to begin? Find your province’s certification body and get started today!
Did you find this guide helpful? Share it with future educators! 🍁
By following these steps, you’ll be on your way to a successful teaching career in Canada.
