Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

User Account Access

I want to use LangCred. Can you e-mail me a username and password?

  • To obtain a username and password, you must create a LangCred account. To do so, click the “Sign Up/Register” link at the upper right of the website or click here.

I cannot access my LangCred account. How can I reset my username and password?

  • Steps to reset your LangCred password:
    1. Click the “Log In” link at the upper right of the website.
    2. Click the “Forgot your password?” link the upper right of the modal window.
    3. Type in the username or email address that you used to create your account.
    4. Answer the Anti-spam question.
    5. Click “Request Secret Key”
    6. Check your email  and follow the instructions.
    7. Copy the secret key from the email and paste it into the Your Secret Key box.
    8. Type in a new password, at least 8 characters long.
    9. Answer the Anti-spam question.
    10. Click the “Change my Password” button.
    11. Log into LangCred.

Is my profile data confidential?

  • LangCred will not share or sell any of your personal information to third parties for any reason. Every effort is made to maintain the security of the site and your information.

Using LangCred

What can I do with a LangCred account?

How do I save routes for future reference?

  • Log In or Create a LangCred account.
  • Search for a route or Search for a program.
  • Click the  “Save this Route” button or “Save this Program” button.
  • Visit My Saved info to see all saved routes and programs.

Language Teacher Credentialing

What skills do I need in order to become a credentialed language teacher in the U.S.?

  • Your academic background is very important. In most states you will need a bachelor’s degree (or U.S. equivalent). Teaching experience and/or training through and approved teacher education program is often required. Most importantly, you must submit proof of proficiency in English and the content language you wish to teach.
  • Skills in public speaking, lesson planning, educational methods, American classroom management and technology can be quite helpful in today’s classroom, but these can be learned through a traditional or alternative teacher program and/or online courses.

What is the difference between traditional and alternative teacher programs?

  • Traditional teacher programs are typically university-based, for-credit classes which require payment of university tuition. These programs can lead to a degree with certification or certification only, and can be for undergraduate or graduate students. A traditional certificate-only program generally takes 9-18 months (up to 1.5 academic years) to complete. A degree and certificate program generally takes 2 academic years for master’s degree programs and 4 academic years for bachelor degree programs to complete.
  • Alternative certification programs are typically not university-based and may be offered by school districts or private entities approved by the state to offer a teacher education program. Applicants entering these programs often have a bachelor’s degree. Many programs are taught in the evenings and/or online to accommodate students with various commitments. Typically these programs allow applicants to teach while earning their credential. Alternative certification program generally are swift and intense, taking only 9-12 months to complete.

Can I get a language teacher credential with a degree from outside the U.S.?

  • Yes, in most states you can get a language teacher credential with a degree from outside the U.S. on a case-by-case basis. Most often, you will be required to have your academic transcripts evaluated for US equivalency to determine eligibility for entrance into a teacher education program. Approved transcript evaluation agencies in your state can be found here.

How much will it cost me to get a language teacher credential?

  • The total cost to obtain a language teacher credential in the US can vary by state and teacher program. Typical costs may include fees for transcript evaluation (if applicable), exams (basic skills, English proficiency, pedagogy and content language), teacher education program application, tuition/course fees, books, student teaching or internship placement, fingerprinting/background check, application for credential, etc. Check your state and teacher education program for specific fees.