Teacher Education
EDUCATOR PREPARATION INSTITUTE - FAQs
What is the EPI program?
The Educator Preparation Institute is an alternative certification route for individuals who possess a bachelor’s degree in a non-education major. Through the completion of the EPI program and Florida Teacher Certification Examinations, candidates are eligible for a 5 year renewable professional teaching certificate in the state of Florida. The program consists of 24-25 credit hours which includes 8-9 courses and 2-3 field experiences, depending on the program of study. Generally, the EPI program can be completed in three semesters, or one year.
How do I qualify for the EPI program?
In order to qualify for the EPI program candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum overall GPA of 2.5.
- Possess a suitable disposition for becoming an educator.
- Possess an “Eligible” Statement of Eligibility from the Department of Education.
- Possess a passing score on the Subject Area Exam that corresponds to the certification area listed on the Statement of Eligibility and have attempted the General Knowledge Test. Equivalent GRE scores or a Master’s Degree or higher in any subject can be used to satisfy the General Knowledge Test requirement.
How do I apply to the EPI program?
Visit the EPI Application Web page. This Web page will have all the necessary application information and documents.
What are the EPI completion requirements?
In order to be eligible for a Professional Teaching Certificate through the EPI the following must be completed:
- Complete and pass all FTCE exams; General Knowledge, Subject Area, and Professional Education (with score reports on file)
- Complete and pass all EPI coursework with a grade of “B” or better
- Have an “Eligible” Statement of Eligibility on file (which matches the Subject Area Exam the candidate has completed)
- Complete portfolio on file with the Teacher Education Department (completed during your last semester in EPI 0020-Professional Foundations)
How much does the EPI program cost?
Currently, the EPI program is estimated at $3,800-$4,000 for in-state tuition. This estimate includes tuition, textbooks, and fees. Please note that this estimate can vary depending on the semester and tuition increases. This estimate does not include any exams or fees associated with the Department of Education.
Is financial aid available?
There is financial aid available to EPI students in the form of student loans. Please complete a FAFSA and apply for your financial aid early on in the application process and check on it regularly. You can find financial aid information on our website (https://www.sjrstate.edu/finaid.html), or call 386-312-4040 for more information.
What is a Statement of Eligibility?
The Statement of Eligibility is a document that outlines the customized steps an individual needs to complete in order to become eligible for certification.
In order to receive a Statement of Eligibility please complete the following steps:
- Apply online through the Department of Education through this link http://www.fldoe.org/edcert
- Select the specific subject and/or grade level in which you wish to become certified in (such as Elementary Education K-6)
- Pay the $75 fee
- Mail official, unopened transcripts to the FDOE from all institutions in which you earned college level credit, including the institution in which you received your Bachelor’s degree. Be sure to send your Master’s Degree transcripts also, if applicable. Send all transcripts to:
Florida Department of Education
Bureau of Educator Certification
Room 201, Turlington Building
325 West Gaines Street
Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0400
- Once you have completed the online application process and your transcripts have been received, your Statement of Eligibility will be sent to you by email in approximately 6-8 weeks. Please make sure to print a copy of your receipt.
What are the Florida Teacher Certification Examinations?
The Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (FTCE) are state exams which are required in order to obtain professional certification through the Florida Department of Education. The three FTCE exams that EPI candidates must complete are the General Knowledge Test, Professional Education Test, and Subject Area Exam (matching the subject area listed on the Statement of Eligibility).
How do I register to take the FTCEs?
Please register for the FTCEs at this website: http://www.fl.nesinc.com. Through this website you will be able to view available appointment locations as well as specific dates and times. Please note you can generally register for these exams a month or two before your desired date. Be sure to check available appointments regularly if your desired date is not available the first time as it can change regularly.
How much do the FTCE’s cost?
The exam fees are as follows:
General Knowledge Test - First time registration is $130 (all 4 subtests at once)
General Knowledge Test - Retake registration is $32.50 per subtest
Professional Education Test - First time registration is $150
Professional Education Test - Retake registration is $150
Subject Area Exam - First time registration- $150
Subject Area Exam - Retake registration- $150 (price varies for exams with subtests)