Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP)

Many states and school districts accept or align their credentialing requirements with the NCSP, and some offer additional employment benefits for achieving highly qualified professional status. The NCSP is administered by the National School Psychology Certification Board (NSPCB; established by NASP), follows the National School Psychology Certification System Procedures Manual, and is open to NASP members as well as to nonmembers. To qualify for national certification, a school psychologist must meet NASP's established credentialing standards. Graduates of NASP-approved or accredited graduate programs benefit from a streamlined application process. Applicants will complete the appropriate application based on the NASP-approved status of their programs at the time of graduation. Maintaining the NCSP demonstrates continued professional excellence through continuing professional development (CPD). NCSPs must obtain 75 hours of CPD every three years, with 10 hours coming from NASP- or APA-approved providers, 3 hours in the category of ethics or legal regulation in school psychology, and 3 hours in equity, diversity, and inclusion. NASP offers both Inactive (e.g., medical or maternity leave) and Retired NCSP categories for those who are eligible. While NCSPs are required to participate in continuing professional development (CPD), all school psychologists should pursue opportunities for continuous professional growth. Activities should be chosen as part of an overall professional development plan designed to enhance the knowledge in several domains. School psychologists should participate in a variety of activities that emphasize learning and exceed the ordinary requirements of employment, including workshop experiences, coursework, presentations, self-study, program development, or research.