Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WV Board of Education
School Counselor Licensing in West Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for school counselor in West Virginia, 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 West Virginia
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
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
COUNSELING
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$55,420 median (15% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#46 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 West Virginia
With a median salary of 55,420, School Counselors in West Virginia earn 15% below the national median of $65,140. West Virginia ranks #46 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$55,420Hourly estimate
$26.6415% below national median
Difference: -$9,720
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSchool Counselor Salary Ranking
#46 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | $55,420 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $61,460 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $74,970 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $67,350 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $64,390 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $61,960 | Degree required | State exam required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | 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. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Virginia | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Kentucky | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Ohio | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- 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
COUNSELING
See official licensing board website
Phone: 8005203852
Related Careers in West Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| K-12 Teacher | $55,550 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Librarian | $48,640 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Architect | $86,530 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Audiologist | $87,980 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a School Counselor in West Virginia?
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 West Virginia?
West Virginia 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 West Virginia?
The board typically expects Degree required for School Counselor licensure in West Virginia.
What is the typical School Counselor salary in West Virginia?
The median annual salary for School Counselors in West Virginia is 55,420. Salaries range from $36,840 (10th percentile) to $73,670 (90th percentile).
How does the School Counselor salary in West Virginia compare to the national average?
School Counselors in West Virginia earn 15% below the national median of $65,140, with a state median of 55,420.
How many School Counselors work in West Virginia?
West Virginia employs approximately 1,390 School Counselors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my School Counselor license to West Virginia 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 West Virginia?
The licensing agency is COUNSELING. Review agency details at http://www.wvbec.org/.