Applying to Relay Graduate School of Education (Relay GSE) is an exciting step toward becoming an impactful educator. While there is no application fee to apply to Relay, prospective students should be aware of certain costs associated with the admission process. This guide will help applicants plan for any expenses they might incur during the application process, including exam fees, background checks, and other potential costs, which may vary based on their location.

1. Exam Fees (State-Specific)

Depending on the state you are applying to teach, you may be required to take state-specific exams as part of the admission process. These exams are often required for teacher certification/licensure and could include content knowledge or basic skills exams. Please see the “Educator Preparation Program (EPP) Admissions Requirements” on your location page to determine if your program has an exam requirement for admission.  Fees may vary based on state-specific certification exams. Be sure to check with your state’s education department for the latest exam requirements and associated costs.

Note: Be sure to check Relay’s specific admissions requirements for your program and state. Some programs may accept alternative exams or have different requirements.

2. Background Checks

Many states and school districts require that prospective teachers undergo a background check as part of the admissions process. The cost of background checks varies by state and can range from $40 to $100. For some programs, a background check may be required not only for employment but also for admission.  Applicants are advised to complete this step early to ensure timely processing.  Please see the “Educator Preparation Program (EPP) Admissions Requirements” on your location page to determine if your program has a background check requirement.

3. Official Transcripts

Relay GSE requires official transcripts from all postsecondary institutions that applicants have attended. Depending on the institution, there may be a fee associated with requesting official transcripts, typically ranging from $5 to $20 per transcript. Be sure to factor in this cost if you’ve attended multiple institutions.

4. Relocation and Housing Costs (if applicable)

While not directly related to the application process, prospective students may need to consider relocation or housing costs if they have secured a new instructional role aligned with their Relay program. While the majority of Relay's programs are fully online for the 2024-2025 academic year, there may be one or more programs in the following states that may have an in-person component: Colorado, Connecticut, New Jersey, and Tennessee. 

5. Additional Costs to Consider

• CPR Certification: Some states require CPR certification as part of teacher certification. Costs typically range from $40 to $60.

• Study Materials for Exams: Applicants may wish to purchase test preparation materials or enroll in prep courses, which could cost between $20 to $200, depending on the exam and resources chosen.  See a list of exam preparation resources here.

Summary of Potential Costs:

While the costs associated with the admission process can vary, Relay Graduate School of Education is committed to making the journey as accessible as possible. Prospective students should carefully review the specific requirements for their program and state to budget accordingly. For questions or concerns regarding fees and associated costs, feel free to reach out to the Prospective Student Advising Team at [email protected] or refer to your location page for more details.