STR Application Requirements
All applications for the STR program are submitted through the University of Washington Graduate School online application system. After logging into your account, select the Graduate program: Education – Seattle (MIT – Teacher Education – Elementary Seattle Teacher Residency). For Special Education Pathway applicants, indicate this option under "Area of Interest" in the online application.
Bachelor's degree
Your 4-year bachelor’s degree must be completed before starting the STR program. There is no specific major/coursework requirement for the program.
Resume
Your resume should detail relevant work and volunteer experience.
Statement of Purpose
The Statement of Purpose has 3 sections, with separate prompts and maximum word counts. It is recommended that you save them as 3 separate files and submit in PDF or MS-Word format before uploading to the online application.
Three References
Each reference should complete a STR reference survey. References should email completed forms to eduapp@uw.edu or submit to: Office of Student Services, College of Education, 206 Miller Hall, Box 353600, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195-3600.
Unofficial Transcripts
Unofficial transcripts should be uploaded in the online application. Official transcripts will be required if you are accepted into the program.
Basic Skills Test (WEST-B)
The State of Washington requires all teacher certification candidates take an approved assessment of Basic Skills in writing, reading and mathematics. Please upload a copy of your approved Basic Skills assessment report for all three subareas (Reading, Mathematics, Writing). Official scores must be sent to the University of Washington from the testing agency in addition to uploading a copy to your application.
Subject Matter NES Test (Not required for admission)
The NES is not required for admission, but will be required for eventual full certification.
Application Fee
There is a non-refundable $85 application fee, due when you are ready to submit.
Get your own copy of the detailed application checklist here!
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the Seattle Teacher Residency program, you must: hold a Bachelor’s degree by the time the program starts, have a minimum 3.0 GPA, take the WEST-B test or equivalent before the application deadline, and be legally authorized to work in the United States.
What are we looking for?
Commitment to Social Justice and Racial Equity
Our strongest applicants have a deep belief that all students can learn and a sense of responsibility for student learning. They are open and willing to engage around issues including race, equity, gender, socioeconomic background, power, and privilege.
Passion for Service in Urban Communities
STR applicants make a minimum 5-year commitment (post-residency year) to teaching in Seattle Public Schools in schools serving low income communities and historically marginalized student populations.
Leadership Ability
Applicants are committed to ongoing learning, collaboration, and communication. They demonstrate resilience and perseverance, especially when faced with challenges.
Prior Experience with Youth
Volunteer or professional work experience with youth is strongly encouraged. In particular, successful and sustained engagement with youth of color from urban settings is highly valued in the admissions process.
Past Residents include…
- Recent college graduates going on to earn their Master’s degree
- School paraprofessionals and instructional assistants
- Career changers
- Parents
- Out-of-staters
- AmeriCorps/Peace Corps alumni
- People of all ages and backgrounds
