Arkansas Credential Guide
English as a Second Language (ESL), K-12 Endorsement Requirements in Arkansas
Issued by Arkansas Department of Education, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education.
Arkansas treats K-12 ESL as an add-on endorsement. You need a teaching license, approved ESL study and the state-listed Praxis result.
Official sources reviewed . Requirements can change, so confirm your route with the issuing agency before enrolling.
Arkansas ESL Add-On
The ESL Area Cannot Be Added by Testing Alone
Arkansas offers a test-only route for some license additions, but its ESL K–12 Additional Licensure Plan specifically excludes ESL from that shortcut. A standard Arkansas license holder assigned to teach ESL needs the approved study route and the applicable assessment.
- Confirm your current Arkansas teaching license and the ESL assignment with the district.
- Ask an approved provider how its ESL program of study or ESL Academy credit meets the add-on plan.
- Complete the required assessment and submit the provider and test evidence under the state's add-to-license process.
Districts use the Additional Licensure Plan for out-of-field assignments. Ask your district which part of that plan it will document before assuming a Praxis result is enough.
Arkansas Department of Education, checked September 29, 2026: current add-to-license process and ESL Additional Licensure Plan.
Arkansas Requirements
Start With Your Arkansas Teaching License
The add-on route assumes you already hold a valid teaching license. Check that status before choosing an ESL program.
License requirement
Arkansas requires a valid teaching license for its add-on endorsement pathway.
Arkansas Requirements
Choose Approved ESL Study
Arkansas names an approved program of study and an ESL Academy for college credit. Ask how your chosen option leads to the endorsement.
Preparation options
Applicants complete an approved ESL program of study. Arkansas also identifies an ESL Academy for college credit as an available option.
Arkansas Requirements
Check Praxis 5362 Before Registering
Use the current state assessment list to confirm the test and passing score that apply to your application.
Published test
Arkansas lists Praxis English to Speakers of Other Languages test 5362 with a minimum score of 155.