Requirements for First-Time LET Takers
Taking the Licensure Examination for Teachers for the first time can feel overwhelming. This comprehensive guide walks you through every requirement, making your first LET application smooth and stress-free.
Introduction
Taking the licensure examination for teachers for the first time can feel overwhelming. You've spent four years earning your education degree, and now one crucial step stands between you and your teaching license. What documents do you need? When should you apply? How much will it cost?
This comprehensive guide walks you through every requirement for the LET Philippines, specifically tailored for first-time takers. Let's transform your anxiety into confidence.
Who Can Take the Licensure Examination for Teachers?
Before gathering documents, confirm that you meet the basic eligibility requirements for the LET exam. The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) has clear prerequisites that all first-time takers must satisfy.
Elementary Level
You can take the Elementary LET if you have:
- Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEEd) degree from a CHED-recognized institution
- Any bachelor's degree with at least 18 units of professional education subjects
Professional Ed units typically include: Principles of Teaching, Child and Adolescent Development, Educational Psychology, Assessment of Learning, Curriculum Development
Secondary Level
You can take the Secondary LET if you have:
- Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSEd) degree with a specific major or specialization
- Any bachelor's degree with a major relevant to teaching plus at least 18 units of professional education
Common majors: English, Mathematics, Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics), Social Studies, Filipino, MAPEH, Technical-Vocational subjects
Important Note About Graduation Status
Can you apply before graduating?
Yes! You can apply for the LET even if you haven't graduated yet, provided you will graduate before the exam date. You'll need a "Certification for Graduation" or "Certificate of Expected Graduation" from your school's registrar.
⚠️ However: You must be a graduate by the time you take the actual examination. If you don't graduate in time, your exam results will be invalidated.
Verifying Your School's Accreditation
Not all educational institutions are CHED-recognized. Before applying for the licensure examination for teachers in the Philippines, verify that your school appears on the Commission on Higher Education's list of accredited colleges and universities.
Check through: CHED Official Website
Complete Documentary Requirements for First-Time Takers
Gathering the right documents is crucial for a successful application. Missing even one requirement can delay or invalidate your application. Here's your complete checklist.
1. Duly Accomplished Application Form
The PRC provides an online application system for the LET Philippines. You'll need to:
- Create an account on the PRC online services portal
- Fill out the LET application form completely
- Double-check all information for accuracy (spelling of name, birth date, school details)
- Upload required documents in the specified formats
Pro tip: Fill out the form using the exact name format that appears on your birth certificate and transcript. Any discrepancy may cause problems during verification.
2. Official Transcript of Records (TOR)
Your TOR is the most critical document for first-time takers. Here's what you need to know:
If you've already graduated:
- Request an Official TOR with "Graduated" status and graduation date
- Must show your complete academic record
- Should be authenticated (school seal, registrar's signature)
- Most schools require 3-5 working days to process
If you're graduating soon:
- Request a TOR "For Board Examination Purposes"
- Should include expected graduation date
- Some schools mark it as "For LET Application Only"
Important reminders:
- The TOR must be an original copy from your school's registrar
- Photocopies, even if certified, are not accepted
- The document should be recent (issued within the application period)
- For online applications, scan the original TOR in high resolution
3. Certificate of Graduation or Diploma
This document proves you've completed all requirements for your degree.
If you've graduated:
- Submit a certified true copy of your diploma or Certificate of Graduation
- Must bear the school seal and registrar's signature
- If diploma hasn't been released yet, request a Certificate of Graduation
If still completing requirements:
- Request a "Certification for Graduation"
- Must state you will complete all degree requirements before exam date
- Must specify your expected graduation date
Pro tip: Many schools take weeks or months to release diplomas after graduation. Don't wait for your diploma if you want to apply immediately. Request a Certificate of Graduation instead.
4. Valid Government-Issued Identification Card
You need a valid ID with your photo, signature, and full name. Accepted IDs include:
Requirements for your ID:
- Must not be expired
- Photo must be clearly visible
- Signature must be present
- Name should match your application form exactly
5. Passport-Size Photographs
The PRC requires recent passport-size photos with specific requirements (see detailed section below):
Size:
2x2 inches
Background:
Plain white
Attire:
Professional or formal wear
Expression:
Neutral (no smiling, mouth closed)
Accessories:
Remove glasses if possible; no caps/hats (except religious)
Quality:
Clear, high-resolution, not pixelated
6. Proof of Payment
After completing your online application, you'll receive instructions for paying the examination fee. Payment options typically include:
- Over-the-counter bank payment
- Online banking
- Payment centers (like Bayad Center, SM Payment Center)
What to keep: Official receipt, transaction reference number, screenshot or photo of payment confirmation. Keep multiple copies until you receive your Notice of Admission.
7. Marriage Certificate (If Applicable)
If you're married and your name on the application differs from your name on academic records:
- Submit a certified true copy of your marriage certificate from PSA (Philippine Statistics Authority)
- Ensure the name transition is clear
- Some first-time takers prefer to use their maiden name to avoid complications
Examination Fees and Payment Options
Understanding the costs involved helps you budget appropriately for your LET application.
Standard Examination Fee
As of 2024-2025, the LET fee is:
₱900
for either Elementary or Secondary level
⚠️ Fees are subject to change. Always verify the current fee on the PRC official website before applying.
Additional Costs to Consider
Document processing:
- TOR: ₱100-₱300 per copy
- Certificate of Graduation: ₱50-₱150
- Passport photos: ₱50-₱200
- Document authentication: ₱100-₱500
Review materials (optional):
- Review books: ₱500-₱1,500
- Review center: ₱3,000-₱15,000
- Online reviewers: ₱500-₱2,000
Exam day expenses:
- Transportation: ₱100-₱1,000
- Accommodation (if needed): ₱1,000-₱3,000
- Meals: ₱200-₱500
Total estimated budget:
₱1,500-₱5,000 for basic requirements, or ₱5,000-₱20,000 if including review courses
Photo Requirements (Strict!)
Exact Photo Specifications:
- Passport size (4.5 cm x 3.5 cm or 2x2 inches)
- Plain white background
- Full name tag at the bottom (First Name, Middle Initial, Last Name)
- Taken within the last 6 months
- Applicant must wear a collar (with sleeves)
- Neutral facial expression, no smiling, mouth closed
- No eyeglasses, ears visible
- No caps, hats, or headbands (except for religious purposes)
How many photos:
- For online applications: 1 digital copy (specific file size as indicated)
- For over-the-counter applications: 3-4 printed copies
Pro tip: Take photos specifically for your LET application. Don't use old photos or selfies. Professional photo studios that offer "ID picture" services know the PRC requirements.
Additional Requirements for Special Cases
For Foreign Graduates
- Authentication of diploma and transcript from Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)
- CHED evaluation and recognition of foreign credentials
- English translation of documents (if not in English)
For Graduates of Closed Schools
- Certificate of Transfer of Credentials from CHED
- Alternative documentation as specified by PRC
For Those with Name Changes
- Court order for name change
- PSA-authenticated documents showing the name change
Where to Get Documents
PSA Documents
PSA Serbilis online or SM Business Centers
TOR
Your University Registrar. Request EARLY (3-5 days processing)
Cedula
Your Barangay Hall or Municipal Hall
Documentary Stamps
PRC Office or BIR
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion: Your First Step Toward a Teaching Career
Applying for the licensure examination for teachers as a first-time taker marks a significant milestone in your journey to becoming a professional educator. While the process involves numerous requirements and careful attention to detail, thousands of graduates successfully navigate it every year.
Remember these key takeaways: start your application early, prepare all documents carefully, double-check every detail, and pay attention to deadlines. The LET Philippines application process may seem complex, but breaking it down into manageable steps makes it straightforward.
Your education, preparation, and determination will carry you through not just the application, but the board exam itself. Your future students are waiting for an excellent teacher like you!
How to Apply
Learn the step-by-step process and requirements for the LET application.