If you are eligible to renew your National Board Certification, now is the time to begin the Maintenance of Certification (MOC) process. Renewing your certification shows that your professional practice continues to meet the high, rigorous standards for your certificate area.
After submitting your application, check the MOC Eligible List to confirm your status. This list includes the names of candidates who have:
The list is updated weekly on the NBRC website (excluding holidays) until the application window closes.
Being marked as ELIGIBLE means you have successfully completed the application and your information has been verified. It does not confirm NBPTS registration or component submission.
If you are approved for the Illinois MOC Fee Subsidy, the $495 will be paid directly to NBPTS on your behalf.
In your NBPTS profile, you will be asked the following question:
“Do you elect to have your name released to third-party agencies that may provide incentives, support, and rewards for teachers seeking National Board Certification?”
To be considered for the Illinois MOC Fee Subsidy, you must answer “YES” to this question.
If you select “NO,” your name will not appear in the reports NBRC uses to determine eligibility and approval.
If you encounter issues with this step or are unable to make changes, please contact NBPTS directly for assistance.
Once all instructions are complete and your eligibility is confirmed via the MOC Eligible Not Purchased report, a date will appear next to your name in the “APPROVED” column on the MOC Eligible List—indicating that you are officially approved for the subsidy.
Applying third party funds: Subsidy payments are paid directly to NBPTS, not to individual candidates. We will notify candidates once NBRC has sent your subsidy payment to NBPTS. After that, you will need to take additional action to apply the subsidy payment to your account. Please read these Instructions for applying for third-party funds from NBPTS (make sure you are paying attention to the MOC instructions, not the instructions for initial certification). NBPTS also provides this Third-Party Payer Funding FAQs for Candidates. If you have additional questions about this process, please contact NBPTS directly
Submit your completed Profile of Professional Growth (PPG) to NBPTS by the NBPTS deadline (actual date determined by NBPTS).
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.
NBRC-trained facilitators lead all cohorts, comprising 12 two-hour sessions.
For NBCTs renewing their National Board Certification, this online cohort provides structure, guidance, and peer support.
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.
