Special Education Induction Program (Clear Credential Only)
How to Apply
If you are applying for the Fall 2026 semester, please check back in September for updated application dates. The application opens October 1st each year for fall start.Apply to this program if you already hold a preliminary or level 1 education specialist credential and need to clear or renew it.
Interested in applying for a Master's degree along with the Clear Credential?
Important Dates for Spring 2026
Note, information below subject to change. Please continue to monitor this website for updates.
| Item | Deadline |
|---|---|
| 1. Cal State Apply application (opens August 1 each year) |
August 31, 2025 |
| 2. Official transcripts due | September 15, 2025 |
Steps to Apply
1. Submit Cal State Apply Application
Get help and tips on how to complete the Cal State Apply application.
2. Request Official Transcripts
Request that your official transcripts be sent to SDSU. Follow instructions on Submitting Your Official Transcripts.
We do NOT requiring a second Program Application for this credential program. Instead applicants must complete the Cal State Apply application and complete the following steps:
- Hold a valid California Preliminary or Level 1 Ed Specialist credential: Admissions staff will verify this with the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CCTC).
- Letter of Recommendation: Letters of recommendation are only required if you did not attend SDSU for your preliminary credential. If you earned your preliminary SPED credential at a school other than SDSU, then please contact 2 individuals who you have interacted with professionally and who would be able to write a letter of recommendation for you. Have these letters emailed to the admission staff at: [email protected]
- Employment verification: Starting Fall 2018, employment verification will be required to enroll in the Special Education Clear Credential program. You must be employed as "teacher of record" — substitute teaching and aid positions will not meet this requirement.
Get in Touch
Application Process Questions
- Christie Pearson, Credential Analyst: [email protected]
Cal State Apply Application Help
Program Questions
- Lauren Collins, graduate advisor: [email protected]
- Department of Special Education: [email protected]