Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MA Board of Education
School Counselor Licensing in Massachusetts
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for school counselor in Massachusetts, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for School Counselor in Massachusetts
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Board of Registration of Genetic Counselors
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$78,840 median (21% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#4 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Massachusetts
With a median salary of 78,840, School Counselors in Massachusetts earn 21% above the national median of $65,140. Massachusetts ranks #4 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,805Median annual salary
$78,840Hourly estimate
$37.9021% above national median
Difference: +$13,700
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSchool Counselor Salary Ranking
#4 of 50 statesfor School Counselor median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | 94,320 |
| #2 | Washington | 83,930 |
| #3 | Alaska | 80,020 |
| #4 | Massachusetts | 78,840 |
| #5 | New Jersey | 77,940 |
Nearby States Comparison
School Counselor licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $78,840 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Hampshire | $68,410 | Degree required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Vermont | $60,920 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $69,900 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Connecticut | $70,400 | Degree required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Rhode Island | $71,590 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Hampshire | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Vermont | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New York | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Connecticut | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Rhode Island | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Board of Registration of Genetic Counselors
251 Causeway St. Suite 400, Boston, MA, 02114
Phone: 8004140168
Related Careers in Massachusetts
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| K-12 Teacher | $83,260 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Librarian | $75,790 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Architect | $101,980 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Audiologist | $98,620 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a School Counselor in Massachusetts?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for School Counselors in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for School Counselors.
What education do you need to become a School Counselor in Massachusetts?
The board typically expects Degree required for School Counselor licensure in Massachusetts.
What is the typical School Counselor salary in Massachusetts?
The median annual salary for School Counselors in Massachusetts is 78,840. Salaries range from $55,180 (10th percentile) to $111,860 (90th percentile).
How does the School Counselor salary in Massachusetts compare to the national average?
School Counselors in Massachusetts earn 21% above the national median of $65,140, with a state median of 78,840.
How many School Counselors work in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts employs approximately 11,850 School Counselors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my School Counselor license to Massachusetts from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for School Counselors in Massachusetts?
The licensing agency is Board of Registration of Genetic Counselors. Review agency details at http://www.mass.gov/eohhs/gov/departments/dph/programs/hcq/dhpl/genetic-counselor/about/.