TIMS

NOTE: As of April 17, 2024, PDE has announced greater scrutiny in evaluating applications for certification in which the candidate has waited more than 5 years to apply after completing a PDE approved program. Here is the language that PDE used in communication to all PDE approved program providers: 

 For program completion dates of 5 or more years ago (before the date of receipt in TIMS by the Certifying Officer), Certification Services will refer any In-State application (Instructional I, Intern, Educational Specialist I, Administrative I, Program Specialist, Endorsement, Letter of Eligibility etc.) to PETQ (Professional Education and Teacher Quality). Certifying Officers must then confirm the applicant has completed all competencies required by guidelines at the time of application.

Lehigh recommends applying for certification IMMEDIATELY upon completing a program in order to avoid a delay and possible denial of certification by PDE. 

TIMS:

Please see this video for instructions on how to apply for PA certification in TIMS.  You may find this file helpful as well.

TIMS is the system that all applicants use to request certification in the state of Pennsylvania.  The system is used by all applicants for initial certification (Instructional I), Education Specialist, Endorsement and Administrative certificates in Pennsylvania.  The OPC works in conjunction with the programs, in the position of the Certifying Officer for Lehigh applicants.  

Our office is always available to help students navigate the process, so please call with any questions you may have.

See here for the TIMS Frequently Asked Questions for Instructional I Applicants.

Please see this file for Educational Specialist and Educational Leadership Applicants.

For information on certification RECIPROCITY, please review this webpage.  Expect that you may need to take additional tests or courses in order to fully meet the requirements of the state.  Note the final sentence on this page: "It is not necessarily "full" reciprocity. The educator may have to complete additional requirements, such as coursework, assessments, or classroom experience, before receiving a full professional certificate in the new state." 

PLEASE NOTE: All applicants must wait to submit the final TIMS application until the Registrar posts the FINAL grade point average after the semester in which you have completed your program.