GraduateSmart
GraduateSmart
Manage daily activities and staff of elementary, middle, or high schools. Plan, direct, and coordinate the academic, administrative, and auxiliary work of a school anywhere from kindergarten through the secondary grades.
$72,400
Lower reported wage
$104,070
Median
$165,820
Upper reported wage
Annual U.S. salaries. Actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience. The lower and upper figures do not represent starting and senior salaries.

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Create free account →Most states license public-school principals; requirements may include a master’s, exam, and background check. [1]
Search CareerOneStop by occupation and state, then confirm the rules with the issuing agency. Coverage is incomplete; an empty result does not mean no license is required.
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U.S. career guide. Program, employer, and state requirements can differ.
BLS 'Elementary, Middle, and High School Principals' (11-9032). Median $104,070.
Illustration: AI-generated image · Illustrative scene
Ask whether any internship, field placement, or supervised training in your chosen route is paid; arrangements vary. [1]
Compare tuition after aid, required supplies and exams, travel, and any unpaid training time for the route you choose.
Planning questions: request a written estimate from each program or sponsor. A total cost has not been verified here.
A related major can be preparation; it does not by itself qualify you for the career.
A relevant graduate route after teaching experience; check your state’s approved administrator pathway. [1]
Direct school operations, support teachers, manage staff and budgets, and work with families. [1]
Principals lead public and private elementary, middle, and high schools. [1]
Usually year-round and full time; evenings, weekends, and more than 40 hours may be needed. [1]
Student safety, staff decisions, family concerns, and performance accountability can be stressful. [1]
Some principals move into district leadership, such as superintendent roles, with additional qualifications. [1]
These are possible directions. Promotion timing and pay depend on the role and employer.