What is a short term substitute teacher license in Illinois?

In Illinois, a Short-Term Substitute (STS) license lets you teach PreK-12 in public schools for up to five consecutive days per licensed teacher, requiring an Associate's degree or 60 college semester hours, plus a background check and training; it's a non-renewable license valid for five years, expiring June 30, 2028, with lower fees than a regular substitute license.

What is a short term substitute license in Illinois?

A Short Term Substitute License (STS) may be issued to anyone who holds an Associate's Degree, or who has completed 60 semester hours of coursework from a regionally accredited institution of higher education. Valid for substitute teaching in all grades of the public schools, prekindergarten through grade 12.

How long does it take to get a substitute teacher license in Illinois?

Beginning January 1, 2023, applicants enrolled in an Illinois approved educator preparation program qualify for the license with 90 semester hours of coursework.

How do I get my substitute teacher certification in Illinois?

Application Process

1. Apply online through the Educator Licensure Information System (ELIS).
2. Pay the fee (please have a credit card available).
3. Send an official transcript showing your bachelor's degree to the following address: Illinois State Board of Education. Educator Licensure. 100 N. 1st St. Springfield, IL 62777.

Can you substitute teach without a degree in Illinois?

Requirements. Must hold an Associate's degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution of higher education or show completion of 60 semester hours of coursework.

Becoming a Short-Term Substitute Teacher

How much do substitute teachers make per day in Illinois?

Average Illinois School District U-46 Substitute Teacher daily pay in Illinois is approximately $145, which meets the national average. Salary estimated from 196 past and present job postings on Indeed.

What are the requirements of being a sub?

Substitute requirements vary by state and district but generally involve at least a high school diploma/GED (often a bachelor's degree is preferred/required), background checks (fingerprinting), application/fees, official transcripts, and sometimes a TB test, with specific state permits or authorizations needed, often focusing on basic eligibility and eligibility for "emergency" permits. Requirements can differ for teaching vs. non-teaching (classified) substitute roles, notes. 

How much does a sub license cost in Illinois?

Download a Substitute and Paraprofessional License Checklist here. On your Homepage, under your Action Center box, click on “Apply for a Credential." Then click on Substitute License (SUB). Continue the wizard. You will pay a $50 application fee, plus a service fee with a credit or debit card.

What is the quickest way to get a teaching certificate?

The fastest way to get a teaching certificate, especially with a bachelor's degree in another field, is through an Internship/Alternative Certification Program (ACP) or a 1-year Master's program, allowing you to teach as a paid "teacher-of-record" while completing coursework, often in under a year, by leveraging your subject expertise. Key options include district-sponsored internships (like California's Intern Program), online accelerated programs (like the American Board or Teacher Ready for Florida), and even portfolio-based reviews in some states, bypassing traditional education degrees. 

Can you be a substitute teacher with no experience?

No, you often don't need prior teaching experience to be a substitute teacher, as requirements vary by state and district, with many hiring people with a high school diploma/GED or some college credits, but relevant experience with children (like daycare, volunteering) or a degree in any field can be very helpful and sometimes preferred. Key requirements usually include a background check and meeting education minimums (often a Bachelor's degree or 60+ college credits), plus some districts offer training for those without experience. 

Do substitute teachers work 5 days a week?

At most school districts across the country, substitute teaching hours are scheduled to be 6-7 hours a day-up to five days a week. It's typically a part-time, hourly, or per diem role. So even long term substitute teachers don't qualify as full-time status.

What is the 70 30 rule in teaching?

The 70/30 rule in teaching is a guideline that shifts focus from teacher-led instruction to student-centered, active learning, suggesting students should be actively practicing/talking for 70% of class time, while teachers provide direct instruction for 30%. It also applies to lesson planning (70% activities, 30% content) and language learning (understanding 70% of content, focusing on improving the remaining 30%). This approach promotes deeper engagement, critical thinking, and skill application, moving beyond passive memorization. 

What is the shortest time to become a teacher?

The fastest way to become a teacher, especially with a bachelor's degree in another field, is through an Alternative Certification Program (ACP) or a teacher internship/apprenticeship, allowing you to teach as a paid employee while completing coursework, often in under a year. Competency-based programs and private school roles (which often don't require state certification) are also quick routes for career changers. 

Can substitute teachers work half days?

While most schools pay substitutes per day (or per half-day if needed), most substitute teachers work anywhere from six and one-half to seven and one-half hours per day. Substitute teaching offers excellent flexibility within a professional schedule that is unavailable in most other occupations.

What states don't require a degree to be a substitute teacher?

Florida, South Carolina, Texas, and Maryland all allow substitute teachers to work with a high school diploma or equivalent. Georgia, Missouri, and Minnesota allow substitute teachers with some college credit, while Wisconsin says you need a degree to be a substitute teacher--a bachelor's degree.

Do full-time substitute teachers get benefits?

Substitute teachers—especially those working day by day or part-time—often receive limited or no benefits due to the nature of their role. However, some full-time substitute teachers or long-term substitutes may access a small selection of supports: Health benefits. Retirement plans.

Can public schools hire uncertified teachers?

All states allow at least some uncertified teachers, under waivers or emergency, temporary, or provisional licenses; in Texas, uncertified teachers are those who have not completed a teaching license or an approved educator preparation program.

Can you become a teacher full online?

TeacherReady was one of the first online teacher certification programs to offer an alternative certification route. The program provides an avenue for students to earn professional teacher certification online, while still working a full-time job.

What is the easiest degree to get to become a teacher?

Bachelor's Degree: If you're looking for the most straightforward path, an associate degree or a bachelor's in general elementary education or early childhood education might be the best options, as they typically have fewer rigorous subject-specific requirements than secondary or special education.

How do I get a short-term sub license in Illinois?

✅STEP ONE: Apply Online Through ISBE

1. Go to www.isbe.net.
2. Click “Log Into ELIS” in the top-left corner.
3. Click “CLICK HERE FOR FIRST TIME ACCESS TO THE ELIS SYSTEM” to set up your ELIS account.
4. Once logged in: Go to Home → Action Center → Apply for Credentials. Select “Apply for Short-Term Substitute Teacher License”

Do substitute teachers get paid by the day?

Daily Substitute Pay: Most substitutes are paid per day worked, typically earning between $100 and $200 depending on the state and school district. Long-Term Substitute Pay: Assignments that last several weeks or months often pay significantly more—sometimes up to $250 per day or higher.

How does sub-licensing work?

In a sub-licensing agreement, the original licensee acts as an intermediary between the trademark owner and the sub-licensee. The licensee grants the sub-licensee permission to use the trademark under terms that should align closely with the original licensing agreement.

What is a short-term substitute teacher?

Teach students on a short-term basis as a temporary replacement for a regular classroom teacher, typically using the regular teacher's lesson plan.

What's a typical day like for a substitute teacher?

A day in the life of a substitute teacher: what to expect

Prepare for the day ahead with materials and a positive mindset. Check in at the office for keys and instructions. Locate the classroom and review sub plans, rosters, schedules, and emergency procedures. Introduce yourself to neighboring teachers for support.

Is there a demand for substitute teachers?

Yes, substitute teachers are in very high demand across the U.S., with many school districts struggling to fill absences, a situation intensified by the pandemic but with roots in pre-existing teacher shortages, leading to unfilled requests and increased reliance on subs for regular teaching gaps. Demand consistently outstrips supply, making substitute teaching a reliable way to get into schools, though challenges like low pay and lack of support persist.