How to Become an English Teacher in Alabama: Certification, Praxis Exams, and Step-by-Step Requirements

Becoming an English teacher in Alabama is a rewarding path for those passionate about literature, language, and shaping young minds. If you’re searching for how to become an English teacher in Alabama, this guide walks you through the full process—from education and Praxis exams to licensure and test-day preparation—so you can move forward with confidence and clarity.

Whether you’re a college student, career changer, or aspiring educator feeling overwhelmed by certification requirements, this article breaks everything down into manageable steps aligned with the Alabama State Department of Education (ALSDE) standards.

Overview: What It Takes to Teach English in Alabama

To teach English in Alabama public schools, you must earn state certification through the Alabama Department of Education (ALSDE). This process typically includes:

Earning a qualifying bachelor’s degree
Completing an approved teacher preparation program
Passing required Praxis exams
Undergoing background checks and fingerprinting
Applying for an Alabama teaching certificate

Most new teachers begin with a Class B Professional Educator Certificate, which authorizes teaching at the secondary (middle or high school) level.

Step 1: Earn the Required Degree

What Degree Do You Need to Teach English in Alabama?

You must hold at least a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution. Common degree paths include:

Secondary English Education
English (with a teacher preparation program)
Secondary Education with an English concentration

Your degree program must align with Alabama teaching certification requirements and include supervised student teaching.

If you already have a bachelor’s degree in English or a related field but no education coursework, you may qualify through Alabama alternative teacher certification routes.

Step 2: Complete an Approved Teacher Preparation Program

A teacher preparation program in Alabama provides essential training in:

Instructional strategies
Classroom management
Assessment and lesson planning
Student teaching (clinical practice)

These programs are approved by ALSDE and are mandatory for standard certification. Alternative programs may allow you to teach while completing coursework.

Step 3: Pass Required Praxis Exams

Is the Praxis Required for Alabama English Teachers?

Yes. Most candidates must pass Praxis exams to demonstrate readiness to teach. Requirements depend on your pathway, but commonly include:

Praxis Core (If Required)

Some programs require the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators, which assesses:

Reading
Writing
Mathematics

This exam is often waived if you meet certain GPA or ACT/SAT benchmarks. You can review preparation resources on prepsaret.com’s Praxis Core pages.

Praxis English Language Arts Exam

To earn English teacher certification in Alabama, you’ll typically take a Praxis English Language Arts content exam. This exam evaluates subject-matter knowledge needed for secondary English classrooms.

Praxis English Language Arts Exam: Format & Structure

While exact details vary by test version, most Praxis English Language Arts exams include:

Selected-response questions (multiple choice)
Constructed-response questions (short written analyses)

Typical structure includes:

Reading and literary analysis
Writing, grammar, and rhetoric
Language usage and vocabulary
Pedagogical applications (depending on exam)

Time limits are strictly enforced, so pacing and familiarity with question styles are essential.

Content Areas You’ll Be Tested On

Literature and Textual Analysis

Fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and drama
Interpreting themes, tone, and author’s purpose

Language and Linguistics

Grammar, syntax, and usage
Language development and structure

Composition and Rhetoric

Writing processes
Argumentation and style
Revising and editing

Instructional Knowledge (If Included)

Teaching strategies for secondary English
Assessment and differentiation

Scoring and Passing Requirements

Praxis exams are scored on a scaled system set by ETS and adopted by ALSDE. Alabama establishes its own passing score requirements, which may change over time.

Important notes:

Passing scores are determined by the state, not the test-maker
Scores are usually available within a few weeks
Always verify current requirements through ALSDE or your preparation program

Avoid guessing passing thresholds—focus instead on mastering the tested content.

Step 4: Background Check and Fingerprinting

All Alabama teachers must complete:

State and federal background checks
Fingerprinting through approved vendors

This step ensures eligibility to work in Alabama schools and is required before certification is issued.

Step 5: Apply for Alabama Teacher Licensure

Once you’ve met all requirements, you’ll apply for certification through ALSDE. For most new teachers, this means earning a Class B teaching certificate in Alabama, valid for teaching English at the secondary level.

If you’re certified in another state, teaching license reciprocity in Alabama may allow you to transfer credentials, though Praxis or coursework may still be required.

How Long Does It Take to Become an English Teacher in Alabama?

Traditional pathway: 4–5 years (degree + preparation program)
Alternative certification: As little as 1–2 years, depending on program and testing timeline

Planning ahead for Praxis exams can significantly reduce delays.

Study and Preparation Tips for Praxis Success

Preparing effectively reduces anxiety and boosts first-attempt pass rates.

Recommended strategies:

Start studying at least 6–8 weeks in advance
Review official test objectives carefully
Take full-length practice tests under timed conditions
Focus on weak areas, not just strengths
Practice written responses if your exam includes them

You can reinforce these strategies using targeted study guides and practice tests available throughout prepsaret.com.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Waiting too long to schedule your Praxis exam
Ignoring test objectives and over-studying irrelevant material
Skipping practice questions
Underestimating time management on test day

Test-Day Strategies

Arrive early with required identification
Read questions carefully—watch for qualifiers like best or most appropriate
Pace yourself; don’t spend too long on one question
Stay calm—stress management improves accuracy

Remember, preparation builds confidence.

Salary and Career Outlook

How Much Do English Teachers Make in Alabama?

Salaries vary by district, experience, and education level. Alabama uses a state salary schedule, with local supplements possible. While compensation differs, English teachers benefit from:

Job stability
Opportunities for advancement
Professional development and continuing education

Continuing Education and Career Growth

To maintain certification, Alabama teachers must complete continuing education or renewal requirements set by ALSDE. Many educators pursue:

Advanced degrees
Instructional leadership roles
Curriculum or literacy specialization

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take to become an English teacher in Alabama?

The timeline depends on the certification pathway you choose:

Traditional route: Typically 4–5 years, including earning a bachelor’s degree, completing a teacher preparation program, and passing required Praxis exams.
Alternative certification route: Often 1–2 years, designed for candidates who already hold a bachelor’s degree and complete pedagogy coursework while working toward full licensure.

Planning ahead for Praxis exams and application steps can help avoid delays.

What degree do you need to teach English in Alabama?

To teach English in Alabama public schools, you must have at least a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution. Acceptable degrees usually include:

Secondary English Education
English with an approved teacher preparation program
Secondary Education with an English concentration

Your degree must align with Alabama English teacher certification standards and include supervised student teaching (unless completed through an alternative pathway).

How to get an English teaching license in Alabama

To obtain an English teaching license in Alabama, you must:

Earn a qualifying bachelor’s degree
Complete an ALSDE-approved teacher preparation program (or alternative program)
Pass required Praxis exams, including the Praxis English Language Arts exam
Complete background checks and fingerprinting
Apply for certification through the Alabama State Department of Education (ALSDE)

Most new teachers receive a Class B teaching certificate in Alabama.

Can you teach English in Alabama without an education degree?

Yes, in some cases. Alabama offers alternative teacher certification pathways for candidates who:

Hold a bachelor’s degree in English or a related field
Meet Praxis testing requirements
Enroll in an approved alternative teacher preparation program

These routes allow you to teach while completing required education coursework, though full certification is still required.

How much do English teachers make in Alabama?

English teacher salaries in Alabama vary based on experience, education level, and school district. The state uses a standardized salary schedule, with many districts offering local supplements.

While exact pay differs, teachers benefit from:

Predictable salary progression
Benefits and retirement options
Opportunities for advancement through additional credentials

Is the Praxis required for Alabama English teachers?

Yes. Most candidates must pass Praxis exams as part of the Alabama teacher licensure process. Requirements typically include:

Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators (unless waived by GPA or test scores)
Praxis English Language Arts exam for subject-area certification

Praxis exams ensure candidates meet Alabama’s standards for teaching English at the secondary level.

Final Thoughts: You Can Do This

Understanding how to become an English teacher in Alabama is the first step toward a meaningful career in education. While the process involves multiple steps—education, Praxis exams, and licensure—each one is achievable with the right preparation and mindset.

Take it one step at a time, use reliable study resources, and trust in your preparation. With focus and persistence, you can pass your exams and begin teaching English in Alabama schools with confidence.

How to Become an English Teacher in Alabama