National Certification

The Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP) credential recognizes school psychologists who meet rigorous national standard (2010) for graduate preparation and continuing professional development. Many states and school districts accept or align their credentialing requirements with the NCSP, and some offer additional employment benefits for achieving highly qualified professional status. The NCSP is administered by the National School Psychology Certification Board (NSPCB; established by NASP), follows the National School Psychology Certification System Procedures Manual, and is open to NASP members as well as to nonmembers. 

Note. While the NASP 2020 Standards have been approved, the NCSP Board will continue using the current rubrics that reflect the 2010 credentialing standards for all portfolio submissions for the NCSP through and including 2023. All submissions from May 2024 and thereafter must submit using the new rubrics that reflect the 2020 standards.

Get Certified

NCSP_LogoTo qualify for national certification, a school psychologist must meet NASP's established credentialing standards. Graduates of NASP-approved graduate programs benefit from a streamlined application process. Applicants will complete the appropriate application based on the NASP-approved status of their programs at the time of graduation.

Maintain Your Certification

Placeholder ImageMaintaining the NCSP demonstrates continued professional excellence through continuing professional development (CPD). NCSPs must obtain 75 hours of CPD every three years, with 10 hours coming from NASP- or APA-approved providers, 3 hours in the category of ethics or legal regulation in school psychology, and 3 hours in equity, diversity, and inclusion. NASP offers both Inactive (e.g., medical or maternity leave) and Retired NCSP categories for those who are eligible.

Check your expiration date and print your certificate in My Account.

Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

Placeholder ImageWhile NCSPs are required to participate in continuing professional development (CPD), all school psychologists should pursue opportunities for continuous professional growth. Activities should be chosen as part of an overall professional development plan designed to enhance the knowledge in several domains. School psychologists should participate in a variety of activities that emphasize learning and exceed the ordinary requirements of employment, including workshop experiences, coursework, presentations, self-study, program development, or research.

State Credentialing

NCSP FAQs

How do I determine whether my program is a NASP-approved program or a non-NASP-approved program?
Access a list of NASP-approved programs to determine this. You can also see the years the programs became approved.

How can I check the status of my NCSP application?
Check the status of your certification and whether Praxis scores are on file by clicking on "My Account." You can also contact us at cert@naspweb.org, (866) 331-NASP or (301) 657-0270 ext. 400.

NASP/ETS Praxis Webinar

This one-hour session provides guidance for those preparing to take the Praxis School Psychologist Exam

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Verify NCSP Status

Employers and other interested parties can check the NCSP status of a particular individual.