Application Process

Before you start your application, check your eligibility status:

Expand All Atoms/Icons/ODD Text Link/Dark/Plus Icon Collapse All Will you graduate from an accredited university with a bachelor's by the first day of training?

You must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university by the first day of your summer training. The start date for summer training varies by region, but is typically in June. Some regions specify an earlier date by which you need to have your degree. There are some exceptions to this policy if you have documents proving you have fulfilled your graduation requirements but don’t yet have your degree. We welcome people of all ages and experiences to apply, so whether you’ll earn your degree this year or if you received it a few decades ago, you’re eligible.

Is your GPA at or above 2.5?

Your cumulative undergraduate grade point average (GPA) must be at least 2.50 on a 4.00 scale, as measured by the institution awarding your degree. This requirement is mandated by the districts and states we partner with. If you are admitted to TFA before graduation and your final GPA is below 2.50, you will lose your position. You must also pass any courses in progress on your transcript at the time of your interview. Additional undergraduate courses completed after your official graduation date cannot be averaged in. However, if you attended graduate school and graduated with a 3.50 or above, you may qualify for our GPA waiver.

Are you a citizen, national/legal resident, or EAD holder?

U.S. citizens
National or lawful permanent residents
Authorized to legally work in the United States through a category that does not require employer sponsorship (i.e., Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) from one of the following categories: A02, A03, A05, A10, A11, A12, A16, A19, A20, C08, C09, C10, C14, C18, C19, C21, C25, C31, C33).

You are not eligible to apply if you are in the United States with a student visa, exchange visa, work visa, or tourist visa. If you’re invited to join the corps, you’ll need to provide legal documentation that verifies your identity and citizenship status. If you don’t meet this requirement, you may be eligible to join one of our partner programs through Teach For All.

Not sure about your eligibility?

If you don't meet all of the three criteria above, you may still be eligible. Check our Admissions FAQs (below) for more specific information about our admissions policies and for frequently asked questions.

Special Info for Immigrants & Refugees

We are also committed to supporting immigrants and refugees who want to teach. If this applies to you, check out our Admissions FAQs to learn more.

Choose Your Application Window

Whether you’re a college student navigating midterms and student organizations or a working professional seeking new opportunities, we have an application window that fits your schedule! Review our application deadlines and choose when you’re going to apply.

Submit Early. Find Out Fast!

Apply by Sept. 16 to get an interview decision by Sept. 23

Apply by Oct. 25 to get an interview decision by Nov. 1

Juniors who have participated in Breakthrough, Ignite, or are Campus Ambassadors are eligible to apply for early admission to the 2026 Teach For America corps during the February and March deadline windows.

2025 Critical Needs Deadline

Learn if you’re invited to an interview

Attend your interview Learn your admissions decision plus regional and subject placement (after 3 p.m. ET)

Accept or decline your offer