Hailing from Mexico, the Philippines, China, India, and more, California’s immigrant population is the largest in the nation. According to the Public Policy Institute of California (2023), immigrants make up 26.5% of the state’s population—around 10.4 million people—and over a third of its workforce, driving exceptional diversity and economic vitality. Naturally, that makes California home to a huge English Language Learner (ELL) population. The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reports that ELLs in California’s public schools have ranged from about 1.1 to 1.6 million since 2000, with the California Department of Education noting approximately 1.07 million ELLs in the 2022–23 school year—around 19% of the state’s PreK-12 students. With AB 2319 (2022) mandating EL training by 2025–26, the demand for skilled ESL teachers remains strong.
- Liberty University Offers Undergrad Cert and B.Ed. in English as a Second Language.
- The Grand Canyon University offers a Masters of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) Program and a B.A. in Secondary Education.
- Arizona State University - Online Offers Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages, MTESOL
- Campbellsville University Offers an ESL Endorsement (P-12).
- St. John's University Offers a Ph.D. in Literacy: Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
Naturally, that makes California home to a huge English Language Learner (ELL) population. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the number of ELLs in California’s public schools has ranged from about 1.1 to 1.6 million since 2000, with recent data from the California Department of Education showing approximately 1.07 million ELLs in the 2022–23 school year—around 19% of the state’s total PreK-12 student population.
When you’ve got ELL numbers like California, you can bet there’s a steady need for educators with ESL certification.
These steps will show you exactly how to earn TESOL certification (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) and become an ESL teacher in California:
Step 1. Get Familiar with California’s EL/Cross-Cultural Language and Academic Development (CLAD) Program
California is serious about accommodating the needs of the large population of English language learners within the state’s school system. So much so that teachers at all grade levels and in all content areas working in California complete English Learner (EL) coursework as part of the standard teacher preparation process.
Choose an approved teacher preparation program as your pathway to becoming a licensed educator in California and this coursework will be part of your bachelor’s or master’s program.
This means new educators in California will automatically earn an EL/Cross-Cultural Language and Academic Development (CLAD) Authorization on their teaching credential upon earning their teaching license.
Move to Step 2 if you need to complete an approved teacher preparation program.
Did you complete an out-of-state teacher preparation program and want to add an EL authorization to become licensed in California?
While all teacher preparation programs in California have included EL coursework for more than 20 years, if you completed your teacher education through an out-of-state program, you’ll need to either take and pass the California Teachers of English Learners (CTEL) exam, complete specific EL coursework, or complete a combination of the two.
You’ll have three options for achieving EL authorization:
- Option 1: Take and pass the California Teachers of English Learners (CTEL) exam, which is offered four times a year. You can study for the CTEL by attending district or county training. Learn more about registering for and taking the CTEL here.
- Option 2: Complete at least 12 units of college coursework. Check out the list of Commission-approved CTEL programs here.
- Option 3: Complete a combination of university coursework and the CTEL exam. If you’ve passed one or more CTEL exams, you may qualify for EL authorization by completing fewer courses through select colleges/universities.
As of 2024, out-of-state teachers with documented EL training may qualify for EL authorization via reciprocity without additional CTEL exams—check CTC guidelines for eligibility.
Move to Step 4 once you’ve met the requirements for EL/Cross-Cultural Language and Academic Development (CLAD) Authorization.
Step 2. Complete an Approved Teacher Preparation Program
Learning how to become an ESL teacher in California involves completing a bachelor’s degree or higher through a Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC)-approved educator preparation program in either elementary education or in a single-subject at the secondary level.
Shortage-driven programs like the California Teacher Residency offer ESL-focused tracks with stipends up to $20,000. Explore CTC-approved options for faster entry into teaching.
Do you already have a bachelor’s in another field?
If you have a bachelor’s degree but not a teaching credential, you may choose one of California’s post-baccalaureate programs, which combine a fifth year of study (two to three semesters) and a student teaching experience. Many of these programs also culminate in a master’s in ESL.
If you have met the subject matter requirements through previous education (bachelor’s or graduate degree), you may qualify for an alternative certification or intern program, both of which will allow you to begin teaching under supervision while completing your teacher prep courses.
Step 3. Take the Appropriate California Subject Examination for Teachers (CSET)
You’ll need to pass the appropriate Commission on Teacher Credentialing exam after completing your teacher preparation exam.
- If you want to teach at the elementary level, you’ll need to take the CSET Multiple Subjects exam to be eligible for the Multiple Subject Teaching Credential.
- If you want to teach at the middle or high school level, you’ll need to take the CSET exam specific to your content area (which includes everything from Agriculture to World Languages, along with all the standard content areas like Math and English) in order to earn the Single Subject Teaching Credential.
Step 4. Apply For Your Initial Teaching Credential
Once you pass the required exam(s), you may apply for your Initial Teacher Credential by completing the Application for Credential Authorizing Public School Service or by applying through the Commission’s online system.
All initial teaching credentials in California are valid for a period of 5 years and are not renewable. Within this five-year period you’ll need to meet the requirements for a Clear Teaching Credential.
Step 5. Achieve and Maintain a Clear Teaching Credential
California’s two-tiered credentialing system for teachers involves the completion of an induction program (a two-year, job-imbedded program) that provides close support to teachers during this first and second year of teaching.
After completing one of the state’s approved induction programs, you would then be eligible for a clear teaching credential.
Since 2023, induction programs require EL-focused mentorship, ensuring you’re equipped to support English learners effectively.
Step 6. Learn More About ESL Teacher Salary Expectations for Jobs in California
As of May 2023, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports the following salaries for educators in California, reflecting the latest data for teachers at various levels, including those with ESL credentials:
As of 2024, ESL teachers in shortage areas may earn $2,500–$10,000 annual stipends or a $20,000 Golden State Teacher Grant for a 4-year commitment.”
Elementary School
Early Career (25th percentile): $67,470
Median: $92,020
Experienced (90th percentile):$127,590
Middle School
Early Career (25th percentile):$68,830
Median: $92,700
Experienced (90th percentile): $126,550
High School
Early Career (25th percentile): $73,890
Median: $96,490
Experienced (90th percentile): $127,590
BLS stats also reveal what ESL teachers are earning in California in some of its largest metro areas, as of May 2023:
Los Angeles (Elementary School)
Early Career (25th percentile): $76,150
Median: $96,190
Experienced (90th percentile): $129,970
San Francisco (Middle School)
Early Career (25th percentile): $71,310
Median: $97,630
Experienced (90th percentile): $137,980
San Jose (High School)
Early Career (25th percentile): $80,620
Median: $102,990
Experienced (90th percentile): $141,110
Although your salary as an ESL teacher in California will reflect just your experience and education level, in most cases, you may qualify for grants or scholarships if you’re working toward a TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certification or endorsement, or qualify for bonuses or annual stipends if you teach in a school district or region that identifies ESL as a teacher shortage area.
For example, the California Association for Bilingual Education offers a $2,000 scholarship to college and university students interested in pursuing their bilingual teaching credential.
May 2023 Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and job market trends for elementary school teachers, middle school teachers, and secondary school teachers represent state data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed March 2025.
National Center for Education Statistics, English language learner (ELL) students enrolled in public elementary and secondary schools, by state: Selected years, fall 2021 Data accessed April 2024.
- Liberty University Offers Undergrad Cert and B.Ed. in English as a Second Language.
- The Grand Canyon University offers a Masters of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) Program and a B.A. in Secondary Education.
- Arizona State University - Online Offers Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages, MTESOL
- Campbellsville University Offers an ESL Endorsement (P-12).
- St. John's University Offers a Ph.D. in Literacy: Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
FAQs About Becoming an ESL Teacher in California
Q: What is TESOL certification in California, and how do I earn it?
A: TESOL certification in California refers to Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages credentials that prepare educators to teach English Language Learners (ELLs). In California, this is typically achieved through the EL/Cross-Cultural Language and Academic Development (CLAD) Authorization, which is embedded in approved teacher preparation programs. To earn your TESOL certification in California, complete a Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC)-approved program, pass the required exams (like the CSET), and apply for your initial teaching credential. For out-of-state teachers, passing the California Teachers of English Learners (CTEL) exam or completing specific coursework can also qualify you. See Steps 1-4 for detailed guidance.
Q: How do I get ESL certification in California if I’m new to teaching?
A: Earning ESL certification in California starts with completing a CTC-approved teacher preparation program, which includes English Learner (EL) coursework as part of the standard process. This automatically grants you the EL/CLAD Authorization on your teaching credential, qualifying you to teach ESL. You’ll need a bachelor’s degree, followed by passing the appropriate California Subject Examination for Teachers (CSET) for your grade level or subject area. After that, apply for your Initial Teaching Credential and work toward a Clear Credential through an induction program. Check Steps 2-5 for the full process.
Q: Can I pursue TESOL certification in California if I already have a teaching credential from another state?
A: Yes! If you completed an out-of-state teacher preparation program, you can still earn TESOL certification in California by adding an EL/CLAD Authorization. You have three options: pass the California Teachers of English Learners (CTEL) exam, complete at least 12 units of approved EL coursework, or combine coursework and CTEL exam results. Review Step 1 for details on these pathways and how to get started.
Q: What’s the difference between TESOL certification and ESL certification in California?
A: In California, “TESOL certification” and “ESL certification” are often used interchangeably, as both prepare you to teach English to non-native speakers. However, TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) is a broader term that can apply to teaching English globally, while ESL (English as a Second Language) certification typically focuses on teaching within English-speaking countries like the U.S. In practice, California’s EL/CLAD Authorization serves as the state’s standard for both, earned through teacher preparation programs or the CTEL process.
Q: Are there scholarships available for pursuing ESL certification in California?
A: Yes, there are opportunities to offset the cost of earning your ESL certification in California. For example, the California Association for Bilingual Education offers a $2,000 scholarship for students pursuing a bilingual teaching credential, which includes ESL certification. Additionally, teaching in districts with ESL teacher shortages may qualify you for grants, bonuses, or stipends. See Step 6 for more on salary expectations and financial incentives.