How to Apply
The application process is entirely online. No items need to be mailed, upload all of your application items to your application account.
- Create an account. Then, complete the application at your own pace.
- Ensure that your uploaded documents are easy to view online.
- Complete all required sections.
- Save often, submit once. You may access and update your application as many times as you like before submission. You are encouraged to submit your completed application a few weeks before the deadline.
Basic Skills Requirement & Subject Matter Requirement
The BSR and SMR are required by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) and must be met at specific times during your USF program.
Basic Skills Requirement (BSR)
As of June 29, 2024, the BSR can be met through USF’s verification of your bachelor's or higher degree from a regionally accredited institution. If you previously met the BSR through one of the other available options, please note that you do not need to submit this documentation with your application.
Subject Matter Requirement (SMR)
SMR can be met through passage of the applicable California Educator Credentialing Examinations (CSETs), or through USF’s verification that previous coursework or degree majors fulfill the requirement.
In some cases, previous coursework or degree majors can satisfy part or all of the SMR. USF will review your transcripts for SMR during the admissions process, after the application has been reviewed by program faculty, and admitted students will receive further information about their SMR status and guidance about how to fulfill any remaining sections of the SMR, if applicable.
If not met at the time of admission, Completion of the SMR through coursework, examination, or a combination of these options is required prior to enrollment in Student Teaching II/III and/or a credential recommendation (including an intern credential).
You can review CTC-approved options for meeting the SMR at ca.gov.
Contact schoolofeducation@uscfca.edu if you have questions about these requirements.