If you are a Nigerian teacher planning to work abroad, you may need a Letter of Professional Standing (LoPS) to verify your teaching credentials.
Many international employers, licensing bodies and immigrations require this document to confirm your qualifications, experience and professional conduct.
In this guide, you will understand:
- What a Letter of Professional Standing (LoPS) is
- Who needs it and why
- Step-by-step process to apply for LoPS from TRCN
- Processing time, fees and common challenges
Let’s begin…
What is a Letter of Professional Standing (LoPS)?
A Letter of Professional Standing (LoPS) is an official document issued by a country’s teaching regulatory body to confirm a teacher’s professional qualifications, registration status, and conduct history.
For Nigerian teachers,
The Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN) is responsible for issuing the LoPS.
This document proves that:
- You are a registered teacher in Nigeria.You hold the required qualifications to teach.
- You have no disciplinary issues or misconduct records.
Who needs an LoPS?
Nigerian teachers applying for Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) in the UK.Teachers migrating to Canada, Australia, or other countries requiring professional verification.
Educators applying for international teaching jobs or seeking certification from foreign regulatory bodies.
Guide to Getting a (LoPS) – Letter of Professional Standing from TRCN
#1. Confirm your TRCN registration status
Before applying for an LoPS, you must be a registered teacher with TRCN.
To check your registration status:
- Visit the TRCN official website: https://trcn.gov.ng
- Click on “Verify TRCN Registration.”
- Enter your TRCN number or personal details.
If you are not yet registered, you must first:
- Obtain a TRCN form from your state office.
- Provide your teaching qualification certificates (NCE, B.Ed, PGDE, etc.).
- Pass the TRCN Professional Qualifying Examination (PQE).
- Receive your TRCN certificate and registration number.
#2. Prepare the required documents
To apply for your LoPS, you need the following documents:
- A formal application letter requesting the LoPS.
- A copy of your TRCN registration certificate.
- A copy of your teaching qualification certificate (B.Ed, PGCE, NCE, etc.).
- A valid means of identification (National ID, International Passport, or Driver’s License).
- Payment receipt for LoPS processing.
#3. Pay the processing fee
TRCN requires a processing fee for issuing the Letter of Professional Standing.
₦60,000 for regular processing.
Additional charges may apply for express processing or international delivery.
Where to Pay:
- TRCN official portal (https://trcn.gov.ng)
- Bank deposit (Check TRCN’s designated banks).
- TRCN State / Zonal offices (confirm before making payments).
Always keep the payment receipt as proof for your application.
#4: Submit your application
After payment, submit your application at the TRCN Headquarters in Abuja or the TRCN State Office in your location.
You may need to submit your request via email too.
#5. Follow-up your application
Processing time for the Letter of Professional Standing (LoPS) can take between 2 – 6 weeks, depending on TRCN’s workload.
To avoid delays:
- Call or visit the TRCN office for updates.
- Send follow-up emails if required.
Ensure your recipient’s details (such as an overseas employer or licensing body) are correct.
Common challenges & how to overcome them
1. Long Processing Time
Apply early and follow up regularly. Consider paying for express processing if urgent.
2. Missing TRCN Registration Details
Contact TRCN for verification or update your records if necessary.
3. Incorrect Recipient Information
Double-check the details of the institution or employer requesting the LoPS before submission.
GOOD LUCK.
Would you like help finding teaching jobs in the UK, Canada, or Australia? Let us know in the comments!
