Special Education Certificate

Application Requirements - Please read through the following steps very carefully. Some of the processes can take up to four months...be sure to plan accordingly.
Application Requirements:

  1. Completed Graduate Application Form (online application).
  2. Completed FAST TRAIN Special Education Certificate Program Departmental Form: See: http://cehd.gmu.edu/documents/ for specific program forms. Include a copy with the mailed application materials and also fax a copy to 703-246-8996.
  3. Two official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended. Applicants with degrees from abroad must have transcripts officially translated and evaluated. Please read admission requirements under International Students for more information.  Your transcripts must show:
  4. The equivalent of a U.S. bachelor's degree (four-year degree) from an accredited institution.
  5. At least a 3.0 GPA in the last 60 credits of undergraduate study. Some applicants with a lower GPA may be admitted provisionally if there is sufficient evidence of potential success.
  6. Three letters of recommendation targeting experience and/or academic abilities. These letters should be sent separately to the Admissions office in a sealed, signed envelope. One of the recommendation letters should address the future graduate student’s ability academically; other appropriate letters may be from a principal, director or other school official who can describe the student’s ability to teach and work with children.  Letters from friends, colleagues or relatives are NOT acceptable.
  7. One- to two-page goal statement that addresses reasons for choosing to become an international teacher.
  8. Non-refundable application fee (click here for current fee amounts). Payment can be made by credit card or check made out to GMU.

International students: Please refer to this page for additional application requirements.

Application Submission:
If possible, submit your application online (otherwise the application fee will be more expensive). If application is submitted online, please notify the FAST TRAIN office by sending a faxed copy of the Departmental Form to:

Jennifer Coarts
1-703-993-2044

If application packet (including transcripts and other materials) must be sent through the mail, send to:

Jennifer Coarts
FAST TRAIN Programs, MS: 1E8
University Townhouse Complex, A1
George Mason University
4260 Chain Bridge Road
Fairfax, VA 22030