Apply for Teaching Fellows & Choose Lander
Apply to the South Carolina Teaching Fellows Program and select Lander University for the largest cohort, personalized support, and 25-year legacy of excellence.
Choose Your Institution Wisely
Teaching Fellows can attend any of 14 SC institutions—here's why Lander is your best choice
Lander University
100 Fellows - LARGEST COHORT
Research Universities
USC Columbia, Clemson
- • Extensive research facilities
- • Large academic departments
- • Diverse student populations
- • Multiple campus resources
- • Graduate school opportunities
Regional Institutions
12 other excellent SC colleges
- • Specialized program focuses
- • Unique campus cultures
- • Regional community partnerships
- • Diverse educational approaches
- • Strong local connections
Complete List of 14 Participating Institutions:
Anderson University • Charleston Southern • Clemson • Coastal Carolina • College of Charleston • Columbia College • Francis Marion • Lander (Largest) • Newberry • North Greenville • USC Aiken • USC Columbia • USC Upstate • Winthrop
Eligibility Requirements
Make sure you meet these requirements before applying
Basic Requirements
- U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
- Legal resident of South Carolina
- High school senior or junior graduating early
- Genuine desire to teach in South Carolina
Academic Excellence
- High academic achievement record
- History of service to school and community
- Demonstrated leadership potential
- Commitment to educational innovation
Application Process
Follow these steps to complete your application
Complete Online Application
Submit your application through the CERRA website. The application window is open from October 1st to December 1st.
Access CERRA Application PortalSubmit Required Documents
Gather and submit all required documents by December 7th:
- Official transcripts with class rank
- ACT and/or SAT score reports (if applicable)
- Two letters of recommendation
- Personal statement essay
Interview Process
Selected candidates will be invited for interviews. This is your opportunity to share your passion for teaching and demonstrate your leadership potential.
Mock Interview Workshop
Nine years ago, we started the first TF Mock Interview Workshop in South Carolina. 25 students from across the state came to practice their writing and interview skills. Each year it's grown and grown, and we've gotten better and better at preparing future Teaching Fellows to be their best selves on Interview Day.
About Our Mock Interview
Each year, we schedule our Mock Interview exactly two weeks before the official Interview Day. We have found that it gives you the appropriate amount of time to digest our feedback and to continue to improve your presentation.
Our goal is to make sure you are the best you can be on Interview Day. We want you to be a Teaching Fellow and to make a difference in the lives of South Carolina's children. Whether or not you pick Lander doesn't matter. We're here to help you, no matter where you end up!
Schedule
Our Mock Interview day is conveniently situated 2 weeks before your interview:
- Group A: Check-in at 9am, begin at 9:15am
- Group B: Check-in at 12:15pm, begin at 12:30pm
- Duration: The day runs from 9am-2:30pm
We'll have light refreshments for you (and your parents). Come early, grab some treats and get ready to interview!
Important Preparation Tips
- Come prepared with an introductory speech for the interview portion
- Be prepared to write - there will be a mock writing session
- Dress professionally and arrive at the Learning Center by your assigned time
- Be flexible and invite feedback to help you improve
- Prepare questions to ask Teaching Fellows about the interview process
- Come ready to learn about your strengths and areas for improvement
Award Notification
Successful candidates will be notified of their Teaching Fellows Award and can begin their journey as future educational leaders.
Important Dates 2025-2026
Mark your calendar for these critical deadlines
Mock Interview Workshop
Prepare for success with our exclusive interview preparation program
About Our Mock Interview Workshop
Nine years ago, we started the first TF Mock Interview Workshop in South Carolina. 25 students from across the state came to practice their writing and interview skills. Each year it's grown and grown, and we've gotten better and better at preparing future Teaching Fellows to be their best selves on Interview Day.
Each year, we schedule our Mock Interview exactly two weeks before the official Interview Day. We have found that it gives you the appropriate amount of time to digest our feedback and to continue to improve your presentation.
Our goal is to make sure you are the best you can be on Interview Day. We want you to be a Teaching Fellow and to make a difference in the lives of South Carolina's children. Whether or not you pick Lander doesn't matter. We're here to help you, no matter where you end up!
Schedule
Our Mock Interview day is conveniently situated 2 weeks before your interview:
- • The day runs from 9:00 AM - 2:30 PM
- • Group A checks in at 9:00 AM to promptly begin at 9:15 AM
- • Group B checks in at 12:15 PM to begin at 12:30 PM and we hope to be done by 2:00 PM
- • Light refreshments for you (and your parents)
Important Preparation Tips
- • Come prepared with an introductory speech for the interview portion
- • Be prepared to write - there will be a mock writing session
- • Be flexible and invite feedback to help you improve
- • Prepare questions to ask Teaching Fellows about the interview process
- • Dress professionally and arrive by your assigned time
Ready to Start Your Application?
Don't wait—fellowship spots are limited and the application process is competitive.