National Board Certification (NBC) is a certification program designed and administered by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS). NBC is available to teachers nationwide and requires candidates to demonstrate their teaching practice as measured against high and rigorous standards. Visit the NBPTS website or call at 800-22TEACH (800-228-3224) from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. CDT for more information.
Of the nearly 64,000 teachers nationwide, 781 Iowans have successfully proven themselves to be accomplished teachers by achieving NBC. Use the NBCT Directory to locate and contact certified teachers in your area and across the nation.
Pursuant to amendments made to Iowa Code, the financial incentives for National Board Certified teachers are available only to teachers who are considered eligible individuals. Review the following documents for registration fee reimbursement and annual award information.
National Board Certification Awards
National Board Annual Award Application 2023-24 - $2500 Annual Award Application
First-Time Candidates
The Iowa Department of Education has received funding for first-time candidates that have not received funding for reimbursement of the registration fee for candidacy. First-time candidates can be subsidized for up to one-half of the fee ($950). See the following subsidy instructions and application form for additional information.
- NBC Subsidy Instructions
- NBC Subsidy Application - Due April 30 of each year
Four license renewal units can be earned for successful completion of NBC. The license renewal units can be used one time to renew either the standard or the master educator license. Contact the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners at 515-281-3245 for more information.