Congratulations on taking the first step toward National Board Certification! This is a powerful opportunity for professional growth, and we’re committed to helping you make the most of it.
From your first steps to final submission, the National Board Resource Center offers guidance, resources, and encouragement throughout the entire process.
The National Board Resource Center (NBRC) at Illinois State University is a support hub for Illinois educators pursuing or maintaining National Board Certification. We serve as a third-party payer for state funding and provide personalized support, resources, and professional development for candidates and NBCTs across the state.
The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) is the national organization that grants certification. NBPTS develops the standards, oversees the certification process, and maintains the integrity of National Board Certification.
If you use the Illinois State Subsidy to pay for your components, you must follow the dates and deadlines according to the NBRC (third-party payer). These deadlines are often BEFORE those followed by NBPTS. The dates and deadlines are listed in the NBPTS Candidate Center; please note third-party payer deadlines are at the bottom.
Explore the key steps below to begin your journey toward National Board Certification. You can also refer to the Quickstart Guide from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS)
Join us for a free, virtual session designed to help you explore the path to National Board Certification. Whether you’re a teacher considering candidacy or an administrator exploring support options, this session will provide key insights.
The NBRC is pleased to offer a fee subsidy program for first-time Illinois candidates pursuing National Board Certification.
Through funding from the State of Illinois, eligible teachers and school counselors will receive a $1,900 subsidy, administered by the NBRC at Illinois State University and paid to NBPTS.
The subsidy is applied directly to the cost of up to two components per cycle and contributes toward the completion and submission of all four (4) certification components through NBPTS.
Read and understand the Guide to National Board Certification.
Please read the Must Read document about the Illinois NB Candidate Fee Subsidy Application.
Please verify that your information (for example, your current school information) is updated on ISBE’s ELIS page – expired or outdated information causes significant delays in processing.
You will receive an email with specific instructions for creating your NBPTS account. Please do not register your account before TBA.
NEW First-Time Candidates 2025-2026: Complete the online Illinois NB Candidate Fee Subsidy Application HERE.
Please allow 10+ business days for your application to be processed. Candidates will be notified by email if any issues are found with their application.
Do not register with the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) until you receive instructions from the National Board Resource Center (NBRC) at Illinois State University.
National Board Certification is a rigorous and rewarding process that requires deep reflection and mastery across a range of professional skills. You don’t have to do it alone!
The National Board Resource Center (NBRC) offers a comprehensive candidate support program designed to guide you every step of the way. Through this program, you’ll be placed in a small cohort led by a National Board Certified Professional Learning Facilitator (PLF) who will walk you through each component with structure, encouragement, and expertise.
Break down each component into manageable steps.
Receive expert guidance and feedback from an NBCT facilitator.
Connect with other candidates in a supportive, collaborative environment.
Stay motivated, organized, and on track for success.
The National Board Resource Center (NBRC) offers a variety of cohort formats to ensure you receive the support that best fits your schedule, location, and certification goals. NBRC-trained facilitators lead all cohorts and include 12 two-hour sessions throughout the year.
Virtual Cohort Connect with peers across the state in a fully online format designed to guide you through the certification process.
A supportive online space specifically for teachers and school counselors of color, offering community and collaboration throughout the certification journey.
Designed for candidates who are not currently submitting components this year but want to stay engaged and plan ahead.
Meet in person or in a hybrid format with educators from your local Regional Office of Education (ROE) area.
Tailored to schools or districts supporting National Board candidates in alignment with local goals. Offered in-person or online.
Even if you’re already part of a cohort, having a one-on-one mentor can make a big difference in your National Board journey. Mentors offer personalized guidance, help you stay on track, and provide valuable feedback tailored to your specific needs and goals.
Whether you’re feeling stuck, need a second set of eyes on your writing, or just want extra encouragement, we’re here to help. Requesting a mentor is a smart step toward success.
Strengthen your portfolio with support from expert National Board Certified Teachers. The NBRC Writing Workshop helps candidates refine their written commentary for Components 1–4, offering guidance on clarity, alignment to rubrics, and evidence-based reflection. Whether you’re just getting started or putting on the final polish, our workshop provides actionable feedback to help you confidently showcase your accomplished teaching.
Connect, collaborate, and grow with educators pursuing National Board Certification in your same certificate area. The NBRC Certificate-Alike Symposium offers targeted support through breakout sessions led by experienced NBCTs, allowing candidates to dive deep into content-specific standards, portfolio expectations, and instructional practices. It’s a unique opportunity to ask questions, share strategies, and build confidence with peers on a similar journey.
Help us continue to provide excellent support for you by updating your information. Remember, all schools have firewalls that block our emails. Please provide a personal email address for the NBRC.