Frequently Asked Questions

We want YOU to come visit and get to know MTR! Grab a friend and come on over!

It might be tough to envision what being an MTR resident would look and feel like without ever actually stepping foot on our property. Visiting MTR is an essential step in your decision-making process, and we are committed to providing you with a comprehensive and informative experience.

Please sign up for a time here. We look forward to welcoming you and answering any of your questions.

Nope! Any graduate of an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s degree and 2.75 undergraduate GPA is eligible to apply for Memphis Teacher Residency.

Residents are required to have US Citizenship or Permanent Residency, a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75, and a Bachelor’s degree by the start of the residency year.

There are three stages in the application process for MTR:

1. Online application

2. Video Interview

3. Selection Weekend (invitation only)

The selection process is competitive with multiple stages of review and interaction from application to offers. We are looking for outstanding people who have the desire and potential to be effective teachers in Memphis’ high-need schools.

Yes. For the Elementary Education cohort, residents are required to pass the Elementary Education: Content Knowledge Praxis exam. For the Secondary Education cohort, residents are required to pass the Praxis II Content Knowledge exam required for the specific content area. Please see our Praxis page for test names and codes and information on registration.

If you already have a teaching license in another state you are still eligible and encouraged to apply for MTR! The State of Tennessee Department of Education offers reciprocity with most states. MTR requires all residents to secure a TN State Teaching license through the reciprocal process prior to enrolling in MTR. Regardless of your license status, all MTR applicants will be required to take and pass all required Praxis exams for the State of Tennessee. All forms for out-of-state licensure are available online. Talk to your recruiter for more information.

An MTR Selection Weekend is the final component of the application process. MTR hosts two Selection events; one in December and one in March. Selection Weekend is mandatory in order to be considered for residency.

The December Selection Weekend is designed to expose applicants to MTR in-person and gain a clear picture of the environment and dynamics of the program. The weekend includes a tour of MTR offices, resident apartments, and partner schools. Additionally, applicants provide a teaching sample, writing sample, and interview with both a graduate and staff member.

The March Virtual Selection Day takes place on a Friday and consists of all the same activities — just through a Zoom call.