27m(7) First-Time Candidate Grant application window opens July 31 and closes August 28, 2026, at 5 p.m. Eastern Time. Apply Here.
Michigan teachers interested in earning National Board Certification may be able to get help covering the cost through the 27m(7) First-Time Candidate Grant.
The grant is designed for teachers beginning the National Board Certification process for the first time. It can help reduce one of the biggest barriers to getting started: the cost.
Eligible teachers working in schoolwide Title I buildings may receive support for up to four certification components at $475 each, for a total of $1,900. The grant may also cover up to three years of $75 annual application fees, adding another $225 in potential support.
This grant differs from the 27m Recognized Achievement Grant, which supports teachers who have already earned National Board Certification.
How the Grant Works
Teachers do not apply for the grant directly. Traditional public school districts, public school academies, and intermediate school districts apply on behalf of eligible teachers.
The district receives and manages the funding and may create its own process for paying fees or reimbursing teachers. All awarded funds must be used for the approved certification costs.
Teachers should connect with their school or district administrator early to learn how the local application process will work.
Who Qualifies
To be eligible, a teacher must:
- Work in a schoolwide Title I school
- Hold a valid or expired Michigan teaching certificate
- Be employed as a teacher by a district or intermediate school district
- Pay for and complete at least one National Board Certification component for the first time
Teachers serving in certain leadership roles, such as peer assistance and review coach, mentor, or other teacher support provider, if the position does not require a school administrator certificate, may also qualify.
The Certification Advances Teachers
National Board Certification gives teachers an opportunity to take a closer look at their work, reflect on classroom practices, study student needs, and document the strategies they use to support learning.
The process takes time and commitment, but many teachers describe it as a valuable professional experience. In one National Board survey, 98% of teachers said certification had a positive effect on their careers, while 96% ranked it among their three most meaningful professional development experiences.
Time Sensitive Application Due Date
The next 27m(7) First-Time Candidate Grant application window opens July 31 and closes August 28, 2026, at 5 p.m. Eastern Time. Apply Here.
Awards are made on a first-come, first-served basis. Teachers who are interested should begin talking with their district now so there is enough time to confirm eligibility and prepare the application.
For teachers ready to grow professionally and strengthen their classroom practice, this grant can make the first step toward National Board Certification more manageable.
Schools That Have Received First-Time Candidate Awards
- Detroit Public Schools Community District – $379,575
- Detroit Service Learning Academy – $53,125
- Lansing Public School District – $27,150
- Saginaw Public Schools – $23,900
- Kentwood Public Schools – $23,825
- Summit Academy North – $21,250
- Pickford Public Schools – $19,125
- Traverse City Area Public Schools – $13,125
- Crestwood School District – $12,750
- Detroit Academy of Arts and Sciences – $10,850
- Dearborn City School District – $10,625
- University Preparatory Academy – $9,900
- Sault Ste. Marie Area Schools – $8,650
- Grand Rapids Public Schools – $8,500
- Ann Arbor Public Schools – $8,500
- And more!
