Becoming An International School Counselor
How to become an International School Counselor?
First, it’s important to know that there is no single, universal credential for international school counselors. Each school sets its own requirements, which are also shaped by the host country’s policies and government regulations.
If you are pursuing a career as a school counselor, the best path is to obtain the recognized counseling credential or license in your home country, as this is often what international schools look for when hiring.
Keep in mind that requirements can vary significantly—not only from country to country (e.g., UK, Australia, Ireland), but also by state (in the U.S.) or province (in Canada). It’s equally important to research the
requirements in the specific country or region where you hope to work, since schools must comply with local laws and regulations when hiring counselors.
Please note: There are some international programs where you can receive a Certificate (which is not the same as a Counseling Credential and may not allow you to work back in your home country should you return) or get a Master’s in Counseling.
International School Counseling Model
The ISCA International Model for School Counseling Programs is the cornerstone of our profession. It outlines what school counselors do, why their role matters, and how to design effective programs in international schools. The Model emphasizes global perspective and identity development, ensuring counselors are equipped to support the unique needs of diverse, globally mobile students while promoting their academic, social-emotional, identity development and career readiness.
Counseling Programs
Please note: completing one of these programs is not mandatory. Many schools will accept a valid school counseling credential or a master’s degree (or equivalent) in counseling from your home country, state, or province. In addition to formal qualifications, schools also look for experience working in a school setting, experience with children and adolescents, and—where possible—international experience, as these make you a stronger candidate in the global job market.
The ISCA-Certified Counselor Program was developed to provide individuals with specialized preparation for working in international schools. While graduate programs establish a strong foundation in counseling, this program addresses the distinct experiences and challenges students face in international settings—such as cultural identity development, mental health, frequent transitions, and global mobility. It equips participants with the knowledge, skills, and international perspective needed to design and deliver comprehensive, best-practice counseling programs aligned with the ISCA International Model and Student Standards.
- ISCA-Certified Counselor – The curriculum for the ISCA Certified Counselor Program consists of a series of courses (16 total), each ranging from 2 to 16 hours in duration. The course topics reflect the important areas of which the role of a school counselor needs to have knowledge.
- ISCA Specialization Certificate – The ISCA Specialization Certificate Program focuses on specific areas of interest, based on topics which have been identified as essential to their supporting students and working in schools. These specializations will allow participants to deepen their expertise and expand their knowledge and capabilities in these areas.
- Master of International Counseling (M.Ed): Lehigh University or their domestic Counseling Program with includes Pennsylvania Certification: Lehigh University
- Masters of Arts in Counseling: The College of New Jersey in Lisbon, Portugal
- Ed.M. in School Counseling and New York Certification (Certificate of Advanced Study in School Counseling)
- Summer Institute for International Counselors (College Counseling)
stay connected to the international school community
- Our organization (ISCA) offers Annual Conferences where you can receive Continued Education Units (CEUs) ; many counselors have used the CEUs for recertification through their professional development.
- Join ISCA and connect with other international school counselors! We are an international association meeting the needs of counselors overseas. Our ISCA members come from diverse backgrounds and nationalities. We are united by our diversity as we work in international schools around the world!
- Attend an ISCA event.
Find a Counseling Job Internationally
If you are interested in pursuing a school counseling position overseas, the best first step is to connect with recruiting agencies that specialize in international education. These organizations partner directly with schools and can guide you through the application and placement process:
- Teach Overseas
- ISS
- Search Associates
- The International Educator
- As an ISCA member you can post and view job listings on the ISCA website during the recruiting season.
What is it like being an international school counselor?
Become An ISCA Member
Join the premier association formed by international school counselors for counselors. Experience a supportive, open-minded community dedicated to professional learning. Empower yourself with culturally-competent programs that enhance your advocacy and help students thrive.
