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Complete Guide to Applying for NTC Ghana’s Letter of Professional Standing: Step-by-Step Process, Requirements, and Tips (2026 Update)

If you’re a teacher in Ghana looking to advance your career internationally or simply verify your professional credentials, the National Teaching Council (NTC) offers a crucial document: the Letter of Professional Standing. This letter serves as official confirmation from the NTC that your teaching license is active and in good standing, with no history of suspension, revocation, or cancellation. It’s often required for job applications abroad, visa processes, or further education opportunities, such as teaching positions in Canada (e.g., Ontario College of Teachers) or other countries.

What is the National Teaching Council (NTC)?

The NTC is the regulatory body for the teaching profession in Ghana, established under the Education Regulatory Bodies Act 2020 (Act 1023). Its primary role is to ensure high standards in teaching by licensing educators, accrediting training programs, and promoting continuous professional development. Key services include:

Administering the Ghana Teacher Licensure Examination (GTLE).
Issuing and renewing teacher licenses.
Providing Continuous Professional Development (CPD) through platforms like iLearn.
Verifying teacher licenses and accreditations via the Teacher Portal (tpg.ntc.gov.gh).

The NTC emphasizes ethical practice and professional growth, helping teachers build portfolios and earn CPD credits for license renewal.

Why Do You Need a Letter of Professional Standing?

This document is essentially a “good conduct certificate” for your teaching career. It’s vital for:

International Opportunities: Many countries require it to recognize your Ghanaian teaching qualifications. For instance, the Ontario College of Teachers in Canada mandates an original letter from the NTC, not older than one year, sent directly from the council.
Job Applications: Employers abroad or international schools may request it to confirm your professional status.
Further Studies or Migration: It’s often part of visa or certification processes.
Professional Verification: Even locally, it can strengthen your resume or support promotions.

If you’re a licensed teacher (having passed the GTLE), you’re eligible. Unlicensed or non-professional teachers may need to first pursue licensing or upgrade programs, like the subsidized Postgraduate Diploma in Education offered by the Ghana Education Service (GES).

Requirements for Applying

Active NTC Teacher Portal Account: Log in at tpg.ntc.gov.gh.
Academic and Professional Documents: Merge transcripts, certificates, and other proofs into a single PDF (not exceeding 2MB).
Reference Number: From the institution or employer you’re applying to (if applicable).
Payment Method: Mobile money, gov.pay, or other options on the portal.
Additional for Verification Issues: If your Staff ID or SSNIT can’t be verified, send your payslip, SSNIT ID, and scanned first appointment letter to it@ntc.gov.gh.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Follow these exact steps from the official NTC flyer to apply seamlessly:

Visit the NTC Teacher Portal and Log into Your Account: Go to tpg.ntc.gov.gh and sign in. If you don’t have an account, register first using your teacher details.
Go to the Section Marked “Professional Standing” on Your Profile: Navigate to this area to start the application.
Where There is a Reference Number, Attach the Reference Number to the Institution You Are Applying To: If applying on behalf of an institution (e.g., for international verification), input their reference number.
Indicate the Email of the Applying Institution: Provide the email address where the letter should be sent (if applicable).
Merge All Your Academic and Professional Transcripts in a Single PDF Format, Not More Than 2MB: Combine all relevant documents (e.g., degrees, licenses) into one file.
Upload All Merged Academic and Professional Documents at the Section Marked ‘Other Documents’ in a Single PDF Format Not More Than 2MB: Ensure the file is clear and under the size limit to avoid rejection.
Make Payment Through Mobile Money, gov.pay, and Other Options Spelt Out on the Portal: Complete the transaction securely via the portal’s payment gateway.
It Will Take 30 Working Days to Receive the Professional Standing Letter: Monitor your email and portal for updates. The letter will be issued digitally or sent directly if requested.

Why This Matters in 2026

With Ghana’s education sector emphasizing professionalism (e.g., mandatory licensing and CPD), the Professional Standing Letter is more important than ever. It not only validates your skills but opens doors globally. As NTC continues to enforce standards such as the subject-based licensing rollout staying compliant boosts your career prospects.