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Master’s of Social WorkLicensing Information

States legally regulate the practice of social work to protect the public and control the use of the social work title and practice. Each state defines by law what is required for each level of social work license. Baccalaureate and Master’s degrees must be obtained from programs of social work that are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Our online program is available in 49 states (excluding Colorado).

Steps to consider when applying for licensure:

  1. Identify the state in which you plan to work as a social worker. Search the database on The Association of Social Work Boards for each state’s licensing levels and licensing board websites.
  2. Review the state’s licensure requirements and application materials.
  3. Identify if an exam is required and which exam you must pass.
  4. If you are required to take an exam, consider taking the exam and applying for licensure during the term you plan to graduate.

Social Work Licensure in the State of Ohio

Steps to take to become an LSW in the state of Ohio: 

  1. The first step for licensure is to complete the LSW application online and pay the $80 application fee (plus a $3.50 processing fee) on the eLicense Site. You will need to register and create a User ID and password to access the e-License system. Once you’ve registered, complete the application for Licensed Social Worker.

As part of this application, you will also be requesting approval to take the licensure examination. Bachelor’s-level graduates, or those who are enrolled in the final term of a bachelor’s program, are required to take the bachelor’s exam. master’s-level graduates, or those who are enrolled in the final term of a master’s program, are required to take the master’s exam.  Be prepared to attach a copy of your diploma indicating the social work degree awarded, a letter of good standing detailing your anticipated degree and graduation date (if you have not yet graduated), or an unofficial transcript showing the degree conferred. Please note: An official transcript showing the degree conferred must be received by the Board prior to the issuance of the LSW.  

Requirements for Letters of Good Standing

If you are currently enrolled in the FINAL semester of your social work program, then a letter of good standing would need to be submitted. A letter of good standing may be obtained from your social work program office. The letter must be signed by your social work program director or designee. The letter should be on your school’s letterhead and saved as a PDF, or a PDF copy of an email that you received that was sent directly to you from your program director or designee that states the following:

  • The student’s First and Last name
  • The type of degree being earned and should specify that your major is Social Work
  • Date of anticipated program completion, and/or a statement confirming that you are currently in the final semester of program completion
  • A statement that confirms that you are in good academic standing

The remaining steps for licensure can be completed in any order.

  1. Upon receipt and review of the above items, you will receive an exam pre-approval email from the Board. This email will indicate you are approved to contact the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) to register for your exam. Once you pay for the exam, ASWB will email information so you can schedule an exam date with a Pearson Vue Testing Center. In the event that you are unable to pass the exam on your first attempt, see the instructions for exam re-approval. Note: if the name on your government issued identification is different than the name under which you have applied or wish to practice, please contact the Board at socialwork@cswb.ohio.gov for additional instructions. If you believe you qualify for an exam accommodation visit this page for more information.
  2. View the Board’s online Laws and Rules video. This is a review of the Board’s rules and ethics requirements, and will help you understand your responsibilities as a licensee.
  3. Complete the BCI and FBI background checks. Background checks are valid for one year once completed.
  4. Submit OFFICIAL transcripts, showing your degree conferred. You or your school can email the official transcripts to  socialwork@cswb.ohio.gov(preferred method of delivery). Please note: Your degree must be awarded in order for your official transcript can be accepted. Many schools may take as long as 1-4 weeks following graduation to post your degree to your transcript. Your license cannot be issued until after you have graduated and submitted a transcript showing the degree conferred.

Log into your eLicense account to track the status of your application by clicking on Review Status under Options on your license application tile in eLicense. The review checklist indicates whether the Board has received your background checks, submissions such as your transcript or hours of supervision, and your exam score.

Resources

State of Ohio Social Work Licensing Board

Association of Social Work Boards

Social Work Examination Services

Licensing requirements Information