About the Course
Buena Vista University offers the Board of Educational Examiner’s approved Substitute Authorization course, which provides the skills and knowledge necessary to substitute in PK-12 school districts. This is a 17-hour self-paced online course, which allows for more flexibility to become a licensed substitute teacher in Iowa. Students who enroll in the course will have two weeks to complete the coursework.
After completing the course and meeting other state requirements, students will be eligible to serve in Iowa school districts as substitute teachers. Classes will be held in an online format, and the course fee is $200.
Upcoming Start Dates
- September 14, 2026
- November 2, 2026
- January 25, 2027
- March 22, 2027
- June 7, 2027
- July 26, 2027
Substitute Authorization Requirements
Admissions Requirements
To be eligible for this program, you must meet the following requirements.
- Must hold one of the following:
- An associate’s degree or 60 complete semester hours through a regionally-accredited institution.
- A current Paraeducator Certificate from the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners.
Background check requirements will be discussed and completed as part of the course.