Potential Barriers to Licensure
Even if you have completed all of the requirements outlined in your Student Portal, there may be temporary or permanent barriers to educator licensure.
Criminal Background
Criminal history or Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) indications for child abuse or neglect may temporarily or permanently bar prospective candidates from licensure. Candidates must comply with background checks associated with their early field, student teaching, and internship placements. The Illinois State Board of Education collects additional information on applicable criminal history through the Candidate Entitlement Application questionnaire, which is completed in the candidate's Educator Licensure Information System (ELIS) account at the time of licensure.
Documentation Integrity
All documentation submitted to CoTE must be accurate, truthful, and unaltered. Any attempt to alter, falsify, or misrepresent information – whether in field experience letters or logs, evaluations, time reports, or any other required materials – may result in the document being rejected. In addition, such actions may lead to further consequences through the University’s student discipline process, and/or a formal misconduct complaint to the Illinois State Board of Education. These are serious matters that can temporarily or permanently impact the opportunity to obtain licensure.
Once a document has been signed by another individual – such as a cooperating teacher, university supervisor, or school administrator – it must not be altered in any way. This includes changes to dates, content, or formatting. Any updates or corrections must be made through official channels with the full knowledge and consent of all signatories.
These expectations are in place to uphold professional and ethical standards essential for licensure. Candidates should ensure that all documents reflect authentic and verifiable experiences.
For further information from the Illinois State Board of Education, please consult the Educator Quality page.
Assistance and additional information can be obtained from the Council on Teacher Education. For assistance, request an appointment with a Licensure Officer by emailing info@cote.illinois.edu.