FAQ
School Principal FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a school principal.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a school principal: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about school principals
Do principals need teaching experience?
Almost always. Most states require it for an administrator license.
What does an assistant principal do?
Often handles discipline, attendance and operations.
Do principals work summers?
Many do, planning, hiring and scheduling.
How much does a school principal make?
The median annual wage for school principals was $105,870 in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $76,280 and the highest 10% earned more than $167,770.
How long does it take to become a school principal?
Most people need about 5+ years of teaching plus a master’s of training. A master’s degree in educational leadership or administration, teaching experience and a state administrator license are typical.
Do you need a degree to be a school principal?
Yes. BLS lists a master's degree as the typical entry-level education, and you also need a state license to practice.
Is school principal a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change -0.3% from 2025–35 (little or no change), with about 20,600 openings each year. Upsides include shape a whole school; a common challenge is that long hours.
What skills does a school principal need?
Key technical skills include instructional leadership, teacher evaluation, school budgeting, and data analysis. Employers also value leadership, communication, and conflict resolution.
What certifications are available for school principals?
Common credentials include State administrator license, Master’s in educational leadership, Teaching license, and Ed.D.. Public school principals need a state administrator or principal license, which usually requires teaching experience and a leadership program.
Still deciding?
Try the School Principal fit quiz, compare with Elementary School Teacher, or explore School Principal training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 11-9032 (Education administrators, kindergarten through secondary).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Education administrators, kindergarten through secondary (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.