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Who Should Apply?

To be eligible for our teacher residency cohort, you must:

Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, conferred before June 1 of the year you begin the program
Have a background (generally 30 undergraduate credits) in one of these content areas:

Be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident or already possess eligibility to work legally in the U.S.
Not have completed a teacher preparation program or ever have held a license to teach

Submit an application form with essays (see essay topics)
Provide contact information for two references who will each complete a recommendation
Submit your academic transcript
Participate in an interview with UBTR faculty, staff and a district representative
Receive notification of acceptance
Provide notice of commitment with signature
Complete pre-residency activities (UB GSE application, New York State Fingerprint Clearance for authorization to work in schools, certification workshops, content exam, proof of New York State residency, etc.)
Begin online coursework in May, in-person coursework in July and participate in the UB Teacher Residency Summer Institute in August
Begin residency in Buffalo Public School District, Partnering WNY Charter Schools Sweet Home Central School District, Amherst Central School District or Kenmore-Tonawanda School District in September

You will need to submit two written essays with your application. The essay topics are included below to help you prepare.

Essay Topic 1 (250 to 300 words)
Please outline your reasons for applying to UB’s Teacher Residency Program. Include a discussion of one or two pivotal experiences that have brought you to the profession of teaching, your professional goals (both long- and short-term), and how your values align with the mission and vision of the UBTR program.
Essay Topic 2 (500 to 700 words)
The demographics of PK–12 students in Western New York have shifted significantly over the past decade, with an increase in diversity across districts. Teachers increasingly serve students from different countries, cultures, religions, linguistic backgrounds, gender identities, sexual orientations, racial identities, ethnicities, socio-economic classes and neurodiversities. These demographic changes present enormous opportunities and real challenges for educators working to meet the needs of all students. Please share your beliefs and experiences working with diverse student populations. Discuss how you approach teaching and meeting the needs of students from diverse backgrounds. Include specific challenges or successes you have encountered. If you have limited or no experience working with diverse populations, please discuss that as well.

For this upcoming cycle, the application deadline is February 1, 2025 and then rolling until all seats are filled.