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ChatGPT for teachers: free plan and how to start
OpenAI offers ChatGPT for Teachers free to verified U.S. K-12 teachers, staff and school leaders through June 2028. You verify with your school email, then use it for lesson plans, rubrics, differentiated readings and parent emails.
Prices checked Oct 2026.
Who qualifies
OpenAI says you're eligible if you work at an accredited U.S. K-12 school or district as a teacher, staff member, school leader or district administrator. It's not for students.
Verification is handled by SheerID through OpenAI's teacher page. After that, OpenAI says pricing may change but it will give advance notice.
Good first uses
Draft a lesson plan from your standards, make three versions of a reading at different levels, write a rubric, create quiz questions, or polish a tricky parent email.
For working from your own materials, NotebookLM answers only from the documents you upload.
Keep your judgment in charge
Check every fact and answer key; AI makes mistakes. Follow your district's rules on student data. Not a K-12 teacher? The regular free ChatGPT plan works too.
The first thing to type
Create a 45-minute lesson plan for 5th graders on the water cycle, with a hook, a hands-on activity, and a 5-question exit ticket.Common questions
Is ChatGPT free for teachers?
Yes. ChatGPT for Teachers is free for verified U.S. K-12 educators through June 2028.
Who can get ChatGPT for Teachers?
Teachers, staff, school leaders and district administrators at accredited U.S. K-12 schools or districts.
Can students use ChatGPT for Teachers?
No. OpenAI says the plan is not for students.
How do I verify as a teacher?
Through OpenAI's teacher page with your school or district email; SheerID handles verification.
Sources (checked 2026-10-20): chatgpt.com/plans/k12-teachers