Please see below for answers to frequently asked questions. If you have additional questions, please contact Lisanne Pinciotti, Program Director at lpinciotti@wsmsnyc.org. Please click here for additional contact information.
What is the admissions process?
There are four steps to our admissions/enrollment process:
- Sign up to view the information session videos and review the Program Handbook
- Submit an online application
- Mail additional application materials
- Return the enrollment agreement and fee
When is the application deadline?
The following deadlines apply for 2020-2021 enrollment:
- WSMS-TEP Summer Scholarships:
May 10, 2024 - Infant Toddler (NJ Cohort):
June 7, 2024 - Early Childhood Track 1 (summer entry):
June 7, 2024 - All Elementary Tracks:
June 7, 2024 - Administrator (summer entry):
June 7, 2024 - WSMS-TEP Fall Scholarships:
August 16, 2024 - Early Childhood Track 2 (fall entry):
August 31, 2024 - Infant Toddler:
August 31, 2024 - Montessori Inclusion Endorsement:
Rolling Admission
What is the application fee?
The non-refundable application fee is $75 ($150 for international applicants).
What is the tuition?
Tuition for Montessori credential programs ranges from $7,500 to $12,900. The application fee is $75 ($150 for international applications) and the enrollment fee is $1,375. Payment plans are available. We do not accept credit card payments for tuition.
Do you offer tuition assistance?
Yes, WSMS-TEP is committed to ensuring that our educational offerings are open to all qualified candidates. An individual’s ability to pay is not a determining factor in offering a place in our teacher education program. Those who need assistance with tuition payments may apply through WSMS-TEP’s scholarship program or for an AMS scholarship. Federal financial aid is available for the Master’s program.
What programs do you offer?
We offer Infant Toddler, Early Childhood, Elementary, and Administrator Montessori credential programs. We offer a Montessori Inclusion Endorsement as an additional qualifier to the teaching credential. Our Master’s degree program in partnership with Manhattanville College leads to a degree in either Early Childhood and Special Education or Childhood and Special Education. We also offer ongoing professional development workshops and private consultation to Montessori schools.
Where are you located?
West Side Montessori School (WSMS) is located at 309 West 92nd Street, New York, NY. We offer courses in multiple locations including at West Side Montessori School in New York, NY, Metropolitan Montessori School in New York, NY, Magnolia Montessori School in Whitehouse Station, NJ, and at Ehelin Montessori in Shanghai, China.
How long does it take to complete the program?
Depending on the program and model chosen, our programs are typically completed in 1-3 years.
How is WSMS-TEP different than an online course?
The programs at WSMS-TEP are designed for you to live and learn within the context of community. Something special happens when a group of people join together that can’t be conveyed through handbooks or videos on their own. WSMS-TEP has been at the forefront of Montessori Teacher Education for over 50 years…and every cohort evolves with the distinct personality of the group. WSMS-TEP graduates understand what we’re talking about. We use current technologies to support collaborative learning. We study research to support lessons on development. We believe in educating the whole person, children as well as adults. Join us; find out for yourself how a strong sense of community will enhance the transformative process that is the hallmark of Montessori teacher education.
How do WSMS-TEP graduates find jobs?
Successful completion of the Montessori credential program meets the requirements for a career with children in a Montessori setting. AMS, www.amshq.org, maintains a listing of local and national teacher employment opportunities. WSMS-TEP also maintains a job posting board. The Program Director is available for advisement and counseling. WSMS-TEP does not guarantee employment, salary, or advancement to any student or graduate.
