Frequently Asked Questions
Eligibility
Who is eligible for the Rural Teacher Residency Program through CSU, Chico?
The Rural Teacher Residency seeks applicants who express a strong interest in the learning process either in their professional and/or academic endeavors. Applicants may be career changers, college graduates, paraprofessionals, or other educators seeking to become a credentialed classroom teacher.
What are the eligibility requirements for the Rural Teacher Residency?
- Completion and award of a Bachelors degree by May 2011.
- U.S. Resident/Citizen or have a permanent work visa.
Can I become a Teacher Resident if I already hold a teaching credential or a teaching license from another state?
No, the Rural Teacher Residency is designed for individuals who aspire to become a teacher and do not currently hold a credential or teaching license. Applicants who currently hold a teaching credential/license from another state may contact the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing to learn how to apply for a California teaching credential.
Do I have to be a California resident to be eligible for the Rural Teacher Residency?
No, the program does not have any state residency requirements and will accept applicants from all 50 states.
What if I find the Rural Teacher Residency is not a good fit for me and does not meet my needs?
The School of Education at California State University, Chico offers many alternative routes to becoming a teacher. An interested applicant should consider the following options:
- Multiple Subject Credential Options (Elementary)
- Multiple Subject Credential Program
- Concurrent Multiple Subject Education Specialist Credential Program
- Bilingual Multiple Subject Credential Program
- Rural Teacher Residency Multiple Subject Or Education Specialist Credential / MA Program
- Ireland Exchange Opportunity
- Single Subject Credential Options (Secondary)
- Single Subject Credential Program
- Bilingual Single Subject Credential Program
- Concurrent Single Subject Education Specialist Credential Program
- Special Education Credential PRogram Options
- Special Education Credential Program
- Special Education Credential Program Through Internship
- Option For Incoming Freshman
- Integrated Teacher Education Core BA/Multiple Subject Or Education Specialist Credential Program
Application Process
How do I apply and can you send me an application?
The Rural Teacher Residency Application is available here on our Web site. Print and complete the application, follow the instructions on the checklist, and submit your application by the stated deadline.
I have previously turned in official transcripts for my other college work to the University; why are you asking for new copies of these same transcripts?
The California Commission on Teacher Credentialing requires the Department to supply recently printed,official copies of transcripts for all institutions of higher education for every credential candidate. Any transcripts that are a part of your permanent record at CSU, Chico cannot be used for this purpose, so we ask you to provide additional official transcripts.
Should I have transcripts from other schools mailed directly to your department?
No. Since many offices on campus receive transcripts that come through the campus mailroom, we have found that it is usually a more dependable for the transcripts to be mailed to the applicant (you), kept sealed, and included in your packet of application materials or hand-delivered to our office.
Do I need an official transcript from CSU, Chico?
No, an unofficial transcript from Student Records or an unofficial transcript downloaded from the Portal will suffice as a record of your CSUC coursework. All other transcripts must be sealed, official transcripts.
Is my credential program application separate from the Graduate School application?
Yes. View complete instructions for the admission process at the Office of Graduate Studies. For any questions about this process, call 530-898-6880.
If I am currently a CSU, Chico student, do I need to apply to the Graduate School?
Submit an application to the School of Graduate Studies if:
- You are a current undergrad at CSU, Chico who will be awarded a degree at the end of spring semester, or
- You have a baccalaureate degree from any institution, including CSU, Chico, and are not currently (this semester) enrolled at CSU, Chico
If you have any questions about your student status, contact Student Evaluations or the School of Graduate Studies.
Is graduate student status required for acceptance into the Rural Teacher Residency program?
Yes, but you must be a regularly admitted student to the University, whether as an undergraduate or graduate student.
When I took the CBEST (California Basic Educational Skills Test) exam, I indicated that the scores should be sent to CSU, Chico. Do I still need to submit an official scoresheet?
Yes. Please provide a photocopy of your individual official CBEST scoresheet sent to you for the records of the Department of Education. The same is true of other required exams (e.g. CSET). You may keep the original; a photocopy is needed for your file.
What happens if I try but cannot obtain some of the documents required for the application?
Submit your application on or before the due date with everything you have at that time. You may include a written explanation of any deficiencies with the dates you expect to be able to complete the application. As you obtain the missing pieces, please bring or send these items to the School of Education office as soon as possible. A complete application is best, so start early to obtain everything needed.
What are my chances of being accepted into the credential program?
Each application is carefully considered – we are looking to accept highly qualified future teachers.
Standards for admission as well as comparative strengths and weaknesses of candidates are evaluated. Many factors are weighed, and of course the number of applicants vs. available openings will affect the outcome. For more detailed information about this process and help in planning your own individual career possibilities, make an appointment to talk to a Rural Teacher Residency Program Recruitment Coordinator. Appointments to discuss application matters should be at least two weeks before applications are due.
What is the application process?
Rural Teacher Residency applications are due on the first of each month from October through January, for early consideration. The deadline is January 14, though late applications may be considered depending on space availability. Complete application details are available at Rural Teacher Residency Application Process.
Each application is checked for completeness and an acknowledgement letter is sent to each applicant. Program faculty evaluate the applications, then the program coordinator reviews the evaluations and determines admittance status for each applicant. Follow-up interviews are conducted, and a letter is sent to each candidate with notice of acceptance or non-acceptance and follow-up procedures. The process usually takes 4-6 weeks.
Can I apply if I have not taken and/or passed the required exams?
Credential applicants may submit an application even if all requirements have not been met. In some cases, it is possible to be conditionally accepted to a program and take credential courses while completing testing requirements. The student teaching component will be delayed if all requirements have not been met.
Where can I obtain information about and help with the required examinations - CBEST, CSET, RICA?
Information may be obtained online by visiting the following sites:
What happens if I am not accepted into the Rural Teacher Residency program? Can I apply again later?
You are welcome to apply again to the Rural Teacher Residency program in subsequent admissions cycles. You may submit an application for a fee waiver so there is no additional cost. You should also update your file at the time of re-application.
What should I do if I know my GPA is below the admission standards?
If your GPA is below admission standards you may still apply. If you are considered a highly qualified applicant in all other respects, you may be conditionally accepted and asked to complete a GPA appeal process. The steps of the process will be mailed to you with your conditional acceptance.
Can I apply to a program to teach a subject that was not my major?
Yes, as long as you have subject matter competence in that subject. Subject matter competence can be obtained by taking the CSET test in that area. Information is available online at on the CSET website.
Do I need to take the GRE or the GMAT?
No, Rural Teacher Residency applicants are not required to take the GRE or GMAT.
Can I get more than one credential?
Yes. Single Subject ‘Adding a Second Credential’ courses are available during summer session after completion of the RTR program.
Financial Information
What is the cost of the M.A./Credential Rural Teacher Residency Program from CSU, Chico?
Residents cover application fees, books, and other student fees for the M.A. from CSU, Chico. Fees and associated school costs for the eighteen-month residency program are approximately $15,500. This does not include living and personal expenses.
Additionally, there are some initial costs associated with applying to and being accepted into the program. Below are different costs you should expect to assume should you decide to apply and if you are accepted into the program. Please note that this is an estimate only and is not to be considered an exact calculation of the costs associated with the Rural Teacher Residency.
- Initial Application Expenses
- RTR Application Fee - $50
- CSU, Chico Graduate School Fee - $55
- Additional Program Expenses
- CCTC Certificate of Clearance - $27
Is there financial compensation during the Residency year?
Yes, Residents may request to apply for a $11,000 living wage stipend from the RTR Program, in exchange for future service.
What is the Cost of Attendance at CSU, Chico?
The estimated budget below represent a moderate standard of living, or “cost of attendance" for students attending CSU, Chico during the Fall 2011 - Spring 2012 academic year:
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Fees* | $8,050 |
| Books/Supplies | $1,656 |
| Room/Board | $10,864 |
| Transportation | $1,032 |
| Personal | $2,748 |
| TOTAL | $24,350 |
*Fees are based on full–time enrollment. This figure represents a weighted average of Credential and Graduate fees. All fees are subject to change based on Board of Trustees action. See Student Financial Services for fees and deadlines.
What types of financial aid are available to prospective Residents?
The first step in applying for financial aid is completing the financial aid application, called the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or the FAFSA. It's a federal application that becomes available on January 1 each year, and must be completed every year you wish to receive assistance. Submit the FAFSA no later than March 2nd for the following year in order to be considered for all available funds. Visit Steps to Financial Aid for complete instructions.
Total financial aid (federal, state, additional resources) must fit within the student budget. Chico offers financial counseling to advise Residents about available loans and how to apply for loans for which they qualify.
Students admitted to the Rural Residency Teacher Program may be eligible for the following aid:
- State University Grant* up to $6,348
- Federal Stafford Subsidized Loan* up to $8,500 (No longer available to graduate students effective 7/1/2012)
- Federal Stafford Unsubsidized Loan: total subsidized + unsubsidized loan eligibility = $20,500 (Total unsubsidized eligibility $20,500 effective 7/1/2012)
- Federal Perkins Loan* up to $2,000
- Graduate Plus Loan up to the cost of attendance minus any financial aid * Must meet need-based qualifications.
Teach Grant - The new Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant Program is available for selected post-baccalaureate and master’s programs and plans in education. The TEACH grant is not included in financial aid offers but can be offered retroactively to eligible students during the award year. Students may be eligible for up to $4000 for an academic year. Visit TEACH Grant for more information.
CSU, Chico Scholarships - CSU, Chico provides scholarship awards to eligible students. Scholarships are based on any or all of the following criteria: scholastic excellence, financial need, outstanding achievement in school or community service, active affiliation with honors organizations, and educational objectives. The application period for Chico State Scholarships is October 1 through December 15 each year. Scholarship recipients are selected in the spring for the following academic year. For more information on Chico State Scholarships, please visit Scholarships.
Stafford Loans - Stafford Loans are federal student loans made available to university students to supplement personal and family resources, scholarships, grants, and Work-Study. Nearly all students are eligible to receive Stafford loans regardless of credit. A portion of the loan may be federally subsidized for loans disbursed prior to 7/1/2012, meaning interest and payments are deferred until six months after graduation. The remaining portion is not federally subsidized, meaning interest will accrue during the time the student is enrolled at CSU, Chico. Payments, however, are still deferred until six months after graduation. CSU, Chico will not reimburse any interest accrued on a loan used to pay for tuition. Visit Loans for more information.
Alternative Loans - Alternative loans are private loans offered through a lending institution and are not a part of federal student aid programs. Interest rate and repayment provisions vary from lender to lender. It is the responsibility of the student to research and understand the implications of borrowing an alternative educational loan. Keep in mind that alternative loans, along with other aid and educational resources, can never be more than the cost of attendance. Students and parents are advised to maximize federal and state aid, as well as scholarships, before borrowing private alternative loans. Visit Loans for tips and additional information.
Loan Cancellation and Deferment Options for Teachers - California has a loan forgiveness program for students obtaining their original credential. The Assumption Program of Loans for Education (APLE) teacher program may assume up to $19,000 in outstanding educational loan balances in return for eligible teaching service. Applications must be completed prior to obtaining your credential. For more detailed information visit APLE.
Stafford and Perkins Loan Forgiveness - A percentage of Federal Stafford loans and Perkins loans may be eligible for loan cancellation for teaching at a low-income school or teaching in certain subject areas. To find out more information, visit www.studentaid.gov and search for Cancellation/Deferment Options for Teachers.
How do I fill out the FAFSA?
The FAFSA application must be completed online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. Completing a FAFSA is not part of the RTR application process.
Can I get help filling out the FAFSA?
- The FAFSA Website has a section called "Before Beginning a FAFSA." This section helps you get organized to simplify the application process.
- The Federal Student Aid Information Center provides assistance with the FAFSA application. They can be reached at 1-800-4-FED-AID.
- www.finaid.org also offers information about the FAFSA application at no charge.
Is it possible to receive a budget increase through the Financial Aid and Scholarship Office?
- A financial aid advisor has the ability to work with a student to calculate other educational expenses that may not be included in the standard budget for each academic year. The Financial Aid and Scholarship Office may be able to increase your budget by expenses such as childcare, non-reimbursed medical costs, required travel, car repair, the cost of a computer, and other educationally related costs not included in the standard budget. These expenses usually need to be documented by receipts. Usually these requested increases result in additional loan.
- If you have extraordinary expenses and wish to have your budget increased, you will need to submit an Exceptional Circumstances Appeal to the Financial Aid and Scholarship Office. For more information regarding exceptional circumstance appeals, visit Appeals.
What if I have financial aid questions?
Please feel free to make an appointment with an advisor at the Financial Aid and Scholarship Office (530-898-6451) or e-mail finaid@csuchico.edu if you have any questions. Phone appointments are available.
What is the potential salary for a teacher after the Residency year is completed?
Residents who successfully complete the residency year can earn a starting annual salary of approximately $36,000 - $41,000 with the ability to earn up to $8,000 in bonuses for achieving student growth objectives and continued professional development. The average salary for teachers in California is $59,825.
Do Residents have access to health care?
Yes, Residents can access health care through CSU, Chico. Visit Student Health Service for information.
Program Overview
How long is the program?
The Rural Teacher Residency program is an eighteen-month program.
What grades can Residents teach?
During the residency year, Residents will be partnered with a Mentor Teacher matching the area of certification each Resident pursues. Residents pursuing a multiple subject credential will be partnered with a Mentor Teacher in grades Kindergarten - 6. Residents pursuing an Education Specialist credential will be partnered with a special education teacher in grades Kindergarten - 8. Residents pursuing Single Subject credential will be partnered with a high school teacher in grades 7-12 in the specific content area being pursued.
The project will specifically be targeting the content areas of math and science in Years 3-5.
What does a typical week look like in the life of a Resident?
Four days a week are spent in an RTR partner school, learning and teaching alongside a Mentor Teacher. One full day a week is spent with fellow Residents participating in the CSU, Chico seminar. Additionally, up to one or two Saturdays per month are spent in the seminar on the CSU, Chico campus.
What are the Rural Teacher Residency partner school sites?
Partner school sites are the high-needs schools within the Rural Teacher Residency partnership.
How are Residents and Mentor Teachers matched?
The Rural Teacher Residency partnership of University faculty and public school partners are responsible for matching Residents with Mentor Teachers, and are committed to successful partnerships. Before pairing decisions are made, Residents and Mentor Teachers have the opportunity to meet and interact in order to help us make the best possible matches.
What type of teaching credential will I receive?
Upon successful program completion, Residents will receive a preliminary teaching credential in the area for which they received training. Visit Credential Options for details. Once they obtain full-time teaching positions, Residents will work to earn a professional credential by participating in induction activities and expectations for new-teacher effectiveness and development through their employing school district or county.
Exam Requirements
What exams and assessments are required?
There are four exams and assessments associated with earning a California credential: the CBEST exam, the CSET exam, the RICA exam, and the PACT assessment.
What is the CBEST Exam?
The California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) assesses and verifies proficiency in reading, writing, and mathematics skills in the English language. The test provides separate scores in each of these three areas.
Who must take the CBEST?
In most cases, students must take the CBEST if any one of the conditions listed below applies (unless they already hold a valid California teaching credential).
- Candidates are applying for admission to an accredited teacher preparation or services credential program.
- Candidates are applying for their first California teaching credential or services credential.
- Candidates are applying to be a day-to-day substitute.
- Candidates are applying for an Emergency Teaching Permit.
- Candidates are applying for a Pre-Internship certificate.
- If candidates have not taught in a school district during the 39 months prior to new employment, the CBEST may also be required as a condition of employment under Education Code Section 44830.
Exam dates, bulletins, and Internet registration are available at on the CBEST website.
What is the CSET Exam?
The California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET) is designed to measure a candidate's knowledge and skills in relation to an established standard rather than in relation to the performance of other candidates.
Who must take the CSET?
To earn a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential all candidates must pass the Multiple Subject CSET. To earn a Single Subject Teaching Credential or Education Specialist Credential, passing the CSET is one method of satisfying the subject matter competence requirement for these credentials. Candidates wishing to earn a Single Subject Teaching Credential or an Education Specialist Credential may verify their subject matter competence in one of the following ways:- by completing a California Commission on Teacher Credentialing approved subject matter program, or
- by passing the appropriate subject matter examination(s).
Exam information, dates, bulletins, and Internet registration are available at on the CSET website.
What is the RICA Exam?
The Reading Instruction Competence Assessment (RICA) ensures that candidates for Multiple Subject and Education Specialist Credentials possess the knowledge and skills important for the provision of effective reading instruction to students.
Who must take the RICA?
Based on the California Education Code, the following two groups of credential applicants are required to pass the RICA:- California-trained candidates for the initial Multiple Subject Teaching Credential, preliminary or professional clear, with or without emphasis, based on a fifth-year, blended, or intern program or on three or more years of applicable private school experience.
- California-trained candidates for the initial Education Specialist Instruction Credential (special education), preliminary level I or professional clear level ll.
Exam information, dates, bulletins, and Internet registration is available on the RICA website.
What is the PACT Assessment?
PACT, the Performance Assessment for California Teachers, is one of the final assessments completed by credential students before they become teachers.
Complete information and instructions for the PACT Assessment are provided at PACT Information.
Partners
Which public school districts are partners in the Project?
- Cascade Union Elementary School District
- Marysville Joint Unified School District
- Orland Unified School District
- Palermo Union School District
Which colleges on campus are partners in the Project?
- College of Behavioral & Social Sciences
- College of Communication & Education
- College of Humanities and Fine Arts
- College of Natural Sciences
Photo Credits: Cris Guenter
