Leadership Institute Preliminary Administrative Services Credential Program

ACSA Leadership Institute Preliminary Administrative Services Credential Program.

Build the Skills You Need

The Association of California School Administrators, working in tandem with the Sacramento County Office of Education, has developed a dynamic program that seeks to facilitate a series of opportunities for aspiring leaders to grow in their leadership capacity, and to build the skills they need to solve the biggest challenges in education. 

The Leadership Institute offers candidates an opportunity to earn a Preliminary Administrative Services Credential through our 10-month program. The program is accredited through the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing, and is comprised of six online courses based on the California Administrator Performance Expectations (CAPEs) and integration of CalAPA exam content.

Additional benefits include free ACSA Student membership during enrollment and premier CalAPA support. Scholarships are available.

Information Sessions

Register to attend an upcoming virtual information session to learn more about the program.

May 12, 2026 | 4:00 – 5:00 PM | Register

June 2, 2026 | 4:00 – 5:00 PM | Register

June 24, 2026 | 4:00 – 5:00 PM | Register

Complete a Leadership Institute interest form for updates.

Criteria, Application and Costs

Eligibility Criteria

Copy of one of the following valid credentials:
A minimum of five years of full-time teaching experience to be recommended. 

Application Process

  • The Preliminary Administrative Services Credential Program for the Cohort 2026-27 opens April 1, 2026 and closes August 1, 2026.

Scholarship applications submitted without previously submitting the PASC Program Application will not be considered for review.

Program Cost

$8,750 for 2026-2027 year*
Cost includes textbooks, program materials, and tuition

There are three payment options available:

OPTION 1

  • Full tuition payment of $8,750.00 by credit card or check; due by August 1, 2026.

OPTION 2

  • Tuition payment in two (2) installments by credit card or check; due by August 1, 2026 and February 1, 2027.

OPTION 3

*Additional Cost

Cal APA Exam Fees:

Apply now for Fall 2026-27 | Cohort begins August 2026

The ACSA preliminary administrative services credential program puts you in touch with real world leaders in education. I was able to get advice and expand my resume by landing an administrative position in MVUSD. The experiences I have achieved have prepared me for my future in administration.

— Dr. Aftan Wright
(Leadership Institute Graduate, 2021)

The 10-month program taught by current principals, superintendents, directors and leaders offered flexibility without any unnecessary elements or ‘fluff’. Every moment, whether in-person classes or weekly coaching sessions, was maximized effectively. This approach ensured my success in passing the CalAPAs and transitioning seamlessly into an administrative role, all while managing a full-time job.

— Hannah Johnson
(Cohort 6 Leadership Institute Graduate)

ACSA’s Leadership Institute offers aspiring leaders the opportunity to earn their Preliminary Administrative Services Credential and grow their leadership capacity.

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