Applications for the 2026–27 ESD-U cohort are now open. This one-year, residency-based, flexible teacher certification program offers alternative routes to teacher certification for individuals with bachelor’s degrees.

Compared to traditional certification routes, ESD-U provides a significantly more affordable pathway to becoming a certified teacher. Tuition for the 2026–27 cohort is $11,000 and covers the entire one-year program, including books and materials, while many other programs require tuition and additional expenses over multiple years.

“Through ESD-U, we’re able to support future educators in earning certification in a way that is practical, affordable, and grounded in local school districts,” said Alissa Jolly, ESD-U Program Specialist. “Our one-year model helps remove common barriers to entering the profession.”

Learn More at an Upcoming Information Session

Curious about the program? ESD-U will be hosting free virtual information sessions on Zoom in the coming months. Attendees will learn more about the application process, program structure, and funding opportunities for qualified candidates.

Those interested can register online for one of the following sessions:

  • Monday, January 12, 2026 @ 4:00pm
  • Wednesday, January 21, 2026 @ 4:00pm
  • Monday, February 9, 2026 @ 4:00pm
  • Wednesday, February 25, 2026 @ 4:00pm
  • Monday, March 9, 2026 @ 4:00pm
  • Wednesday, March 25, 2026 @ 4:00pm
  • Wednesday, April 8, 2026 @ 4:00pm

Apply Online

Applications for the 2026–27 cohort are now open. The priority application deadline is April 12, 2026. Candidates can pursue single or dual endorsements in:

  • Special Education (stand-alone)
  • Elementary Education (stand-alone)
  • Special Education & Elementary Education (dual)
  • Special Education & English Language Learners (dual) - NEW!
  • English Language Learners & Elementary Education (dual)

Existing certified teachers can add one of the following endorsement areas:

  • English Language Learners
  • Reading
  • Elementary Education
  • Special Education

Learn more about retooling endorsements >

Affordable & Flexible

Tuition for the 2026–27 cohort varies by pathway:

  • $11,000 for Initial Teacher Certification with a stand-alone endorsement
  • $14,000 for Initial Teacher Certification with dual endorsements
  • $6,500 for teachers who are already certified and seeking to add an endorsement

Multiple payment plan options are available, including lump-sum, installment, and monthly payment plans.

Learn more about tuition and payment policy >

Scholarships & Financial Aid

Funding opportunities may be available for qualified candidates through the Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC).

Teachers pursuing additional endorsements may apply for the Educator Retooling Conditional Scholarship, a competitive scholarship of up to $3,000. Additional need-based programs, including the Teacher Shortage Conditional Scholarship and Student Teaching Grant, are offered on a limited basis.  Additional details about these funding opportunities can be found on the WSAC website.

While ESD-U is not part of a college or university and does not use a FAFSA or WAFSA institutional code, candidates may still qualify for state financial aid.

Don’t let cost be a barrier – find out more by attending an information session or contacting esd-u@esd112.org to discuss your options.

ESD-U is operated by Educational Service District 112, an Professional Educator Standards Board (PESB) provider. For more information about program pathways, application requirements, and upcoming information sessions, visit the ESD-U website or email esd-u@esd112.org.