National Board Certified Teachers 2026 (NBCTs) are committed to students and their learning. They know the subjects they teach and how to teach them well. They think systematically about their practice and learn from experience.
The National Board is a national voluntary system that establishes accomplished teaching standards and certifies accomplished teachers who meet those standards. It also advocates related education reforms and capitalizes on the expertise of NBCTs.
National Board Certification is a voluntary advanced teaching credential that goes beyond state licensing. Teachers achieve National Board Certification through a rigorous process that includes intense self-reflection and analysis of their practice. The certification process is not easy, but it is an incredibly powerful and transforming experience for teachers. National Board certified teachers say that it has made them more focused, reflective, and confident. The National Board also has a profound impact on their schools and students.
Teachers who are National Board certified believe that all students can learn and they work to make knowledge accessible to all learners. They also recognize the cultural and family differences that make each student unique, and they take into account those differences when assessing their students.
The National Board’s assessment process consists of four components that take between one and three years to complete. The components are criterion-referenced, meaning that certification decisions are based on teacher candidates’ performances against an established performance standard for accomplished teaching. The National Board’s assessments are created by educators, so they are more relevant to the practice of teaching.
English language learners and international test-takers can assess their proficiency level and practice all test sections with our Cambridge TKT teaching exam 2026.
Prepare for the NBPTS - National Board for Professional Teaching Standards exam with our free practice test modules. Each quiz covers key topics to help you pass on your first try.
NPTS, the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. Teachers seeking advanced certification from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards are actively supported by the California Department of Education (CDE) (NBPTS).
For what outstanding instructors ought to be aware of and capable of, NBC has established national standards. Teachers who complete the demanding certification procedure are awarded certification by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS).
Beyond state licensing, National Board Certification (NBC) is a voluntary advanced teaching certificate. For what outstanding instructors should understand and be able to do, NBC sets national standards.
The National Board Credential is the most prestigious professional certification available in education and offers instructors, students, and schools several advantages. Its objectives were to foster continual progress in educational institutions across the country and to produce, retain, and honor excellent teachers.
To obtain the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) certification, you need to go through a rigorous process that assesses your teaching knowledge, skills, and abilities. The NBPTS certification is a voluntary, advanced teaching credential that demonstrates your expertise and commitment to the teaching profession. Here are the general steps to pursue NBPTS certification:
Yes, teachers can work together on pursuing National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) certification. Collaborating with other teachers can provide valuable support, guidance, and shared experiences throughout the certification process.
The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards offers certification in 25 areas to educators.
Each year a candidate completes components, there is a $75 registration fee that is not refundable. The $475 fee or $125 per exercise and/or the Selected Response section for Component 1 must be paid by candidates who opt to retake components. Costs for the whole Maintenance of Certification are $495 + $75 for registration.
To become National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) certified, you will need to follow a rigorous process that assesses your teaching knowledge and skills. Here are the general steps to pursue NBPTS certification:
Component 4 of the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) focuses on being an effective and reflective practitioner. This component requires you to submit a portfolio that demonstrates your ability to reflect on your teaching practice and professional growth.
Deciding whether the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) certification is worth pursuing depends on your individual goals, priorities, and circumstances.