How to become a principal—a step-by-step guide

A synthesis of two decades of research reveals that effective principals have a pronounced, positive effect on their schools, significantly contributing to student achievement, reduced absenteeism, and higher teacher retention.¹ Among school-related factors, school leadership is second only to classroom instruction in its influence on student learning.² Furthermore, teacher turnover is significantly associated with effective and supportive school leadership, which is critical when considering that 15.1% of U.S. teachers moved schools or left the profession between 2020 and 2022.³ Given these findings, those exploring how to become a principal are pursuing a path that carries significant responsibility for shaping school outcomes and supporting both students and staff. This post explores what the educational requirements are, the certification pathways available, and the steps to transition from the classroom to administration.

Understanding principal requirements and roles

Elementary, middle, and high school principals oversee all school operations.⁴ The core responsibilities of a school principal include managing activities and staff, establishing schedules, developing curriculum standards, and evaluating teacher performance.⁴ In addition, principals assess student achievement data, organize professional development, manage budgets, and establish security procedures.⁴ The role is demanding, as principals are often accountable for meeting state and federal standards for student performance, with many working more than 40 hours per week.⁴

When considering what are the requirements to be a principal, candidates must look at both foundational experience and state-specific criteria. Most states require public school principals to be licensed as school administrators; requirements vary by state but typically include a master's degree, a passing exam score, and a background check.⁴ In Kansas, for example, the Initial School Leadership License requires completion of a graduate-level leadership program, a minimum GPA, and a passing score on the relevant leadership assessment.⁵ Additionally, candidates must have five years of experience in a state-accredited school while holding a standard teaching or school specialist license.⁵ These rigorous principal requirements ensure that leaders are well-prepared to support both students and faculty.

What degree do you need to be a principal?

Aspiring leaders often ask what degree do you need to be a principal to begin their administrative careers. The typical entry-level education is a master's degree.⁴ Before entering a master's program, candidates generally need a bachelor's degree and teaching licensure or experience.⁴

A master's degree in educational administration is the standard credential for leadership roles because these programs teach prospective leaders how to manage staff, create budgets, set goals, and work collaboratively with parents and the community.⁴ In Kansas, applicants for leadership licensure must complete a graduate-level program focused on school leadership.⁵ High-quality principal learning programs are also associated with positive outcomes for staff perceptions of school climate, teacher retention, and student achievement.⁶

Steps on how to become a school principal

Transitioning from a classroom teacher to an administrative position requires targeted education and hands-on experience.

Earn a bachelor's degree and become a licensed teacher

Aspiring principals generally begin with a bachelor's degree in education or a related field, then earn their initial teaching licensure to gain classroom experience.⁴

Gain meaningful classroom experience

Educators typically need five years or more of related work experience.⁴ In Kansas, educators must complete five years of experience in a state-accredited school while holding an appropriate license before applying for an initial school leadership license.⁵

Complete a master's in educational administration or leadership

According to BLS, most states require a master's degree for school leadership licensure.⁴ Enrolling in an online Master of Science in Education (M.S.E.) in educational administration provides the necessary academic framework. Alternatively, some educators may pursue an online PK-12 Certificate in Educational Administration to supplement their existing graduate education.

Complete practicum or internship-based preparation

High-quality principal preparation includes opportunities to practice leadership skills in schools, such as through an internship.⁶ These robust field experiences are an important differentiator for effective leaders.

Pass required leadership assessments and apply for licensure

Candidates must pass state-mandated exams for those seeking Kansas building leadership licensure, such as the School Leaders Licensure Assessment.⁵

Complete mentoring and continue developing

Many states require ongoing development. Kansas requires a one-year mentoring program to upgrade an initial school leadership license, ensuring new administrators receive adequate on-the-job support.⁵

Tailoring your path: How to become a high school principal

Those learning how to become a high school principal will find that their duties often vary based on school size and complexity. In larger secondary settings, principals may work with additional staff and specialized administrators to coordinate across diverse departments, activities, and operations.⁴ Secondary school leaders manage all aspects of high school administration, including curriculum updates, teacher supervision, and decisions regarding departmental funding.⁷

Data from the National Center for Education Statistics show that the percentage of teacher leavers is higher for high schools (16%) than for combined or other schools (11%).⁸ To address these challenges, secondary leaders must rely on specialized skills such as communication, critical thinking, decision-making, interpersonal skills, leadership, and problem-solving.⁴ In return for managing these unique challenges, secondary school leadership can be highly rewarding both professionally and financially. According to PayScale, the average annual pay for a high school principal is $113,243.⁷

Lead the next generation with the University of Kansas

Becoming a school principal requires a steadfast commitment to educational excellence, beginning with foundational teaching experience and culminating in advanced graduate studies and state licensure. By acquiring the necessary credentials and refining your leadership skills, you can significantly enhance student achievement and build a supportive environment for your faculty.

The University of Kansas School of Education and Human Sciences offers an online Master of Science in Education (M.S.E.) in educational administration designed to prepare you for building-level leadership roles. Through robust, experiential coursework, KU is designed to help you develop the administrative expertise needed to foster a positive school climate and guide the next generation of learners.

Take the next step in your professional journey and explore our admissions requirements. If you have questions about the application process, please contact our enrollment team. Start moving toward your career goals and schedule a call with one of our admissions outreach advisors today.