How long do you have to attend college become a teacher?

The amount of time it takes to become a teacher varies depending on the level you want to teach and the specific requirements of your state or country. Generally:

* Elementary School Teacher: This usually requires a bachelor's degree, which takes four years. However, some programs may be 5 years.

* Secondary School Teacher: This also typically requires a bachelor's degree (4 years), but you'll need a major or concentration in the subject you wish to teach.

* Post-Secondary/Higher Education Teacher: This requires at least a master's degree (typically 6 years of education beyond high school), and often a doctorate (PhD) is preferred or required for tenure-track positions.

Beyond the degree, most states also require student teaching or a similar practical experience component, which adds another semester or year. Finally, you will need to pass state-specific licensing exams.

So, while a *minimum* could be 4 years for a bachelor's degree, it's more realistic to expect 4-6 years for elementary or secondary education, and significantly longer for higher education.