Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NJ Board of Education
School Counselor Licensing in New Jersey
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for school counselor in New Jersey, 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 New Jersey
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Education • Office of Licensing and Credentials
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$77,940 median (20% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#5 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 New Jersey
With a median salary of 77,940, School Counselors in New Jersey earn 20% above the national median of $65,140. New Jersey ranks #5 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,565Median annual salary
$77,940Hourly estimate
$37.4720% above national median
Difference: +$12,800
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSchool Counselor Salary Ranking
#5 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | $77,940 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| New York | $69,900 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $61,460 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Delaware | $72,450 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| New York | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Pennsylvania | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Delaware | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Education • Office of Licensing and Credentials
PO Box 503, Trenton, NJ, 8625
Phone: 6092922070
Related Careers in New Jersey
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| K-12 Teacher | $77,150 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Librarian | $79,380 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Architect | $97,980 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Audiologist | $103,510 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a School Counselor in New Jersey?
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 New Jersey?
The median annual salary for School Counselors in New Jersey is 77,940. Salaries range from $58,710 (10th percentile) to $113,170 (90th percentile).
How does the School Counselor salary in New Jersey compare to the national average?
School Counselors in New Jersey earn 20% above the national median of $65,140, with a state median of 77,940.
How many School Counselors work in New Jersey?
New Jersey employs approximately 7,590 School Counselors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my School Counselor license to New Jersey 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 New Jersey?
The licensing agency is Department of Education / Office of Licensing and Credentials. Review agency details at https://www.nj.gov/education/license/.