Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MI Board of Education
School Counselor Licensing in Michigan
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for school counselor in Michigan, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for School Counselor in Michigan
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Michigan Department of Education
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$63,240 median (3% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#25 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 Michigan
With a median salary of 63,240, School Counselors in Michigan earn 3% below the national median of $65,140. Michigan ranks #25 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$63,240Hourly estimate
$30.403% below national median
Difference: -$1,900
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSchool Counselor Salary Ranking
#25 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 regionLicense 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan | 64 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Ohio | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Wisconsin | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Michigan Department of Education
P.O. Box 30008, Lansing, MI, 48909
Phone: 5172415000
Related Careers in Michigan
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| K-12 Teacher | $62,350 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Librarian | $59,520 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Architect | $82,170 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Audiologist | $87,530 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a School Counselor in Michigan?
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 is the typical School Counselor salary in Michigan?
The median annual salary for School Counselors in Michigan is 63,240. Salaries range from $43,230 (10th percentile) to $94,440 (90th percentile).
How does the School Counselor salary in Michigan compare to the national average?
School Counselors in Michigan earn 3% below the national median of $65,140, with a state median of 63,240.
How many School Counselors work in Michigan?
Michigan employs approximately 7,950 School Counselors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my School Counselor license to Michigan from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for School Counselors in Michigan?
The licensing agency is Michigan Department of Education. Review agency details at https://www.michigan.gov/mde/0,4615,7-140-5683_14795---,00.html.