Purpose: The purpose of this study is to describe the preappointment experiences of early-career headteachers in Tanzania and to discuss implications for postsecondary institutions and ministries of education in East Africa. Research Design: Seven novice headteachers in a suburb of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, completed questionnaires and participated in face-to-face interviews about their preappointment professional and academic experiences germane to their school leadership roles. Themes within the data from the seven case studies were analyzed and are presented. Findings: There are very limited opportunities for formal preparation programs for headteachers. Preparation experiences typically follow an ad hoc apprenticeship model in which aspiring headteachers learn from their current headteachers. Inadequate preparation is reflected in the limited roles of headteachers in schools. Opportunities for collaborative headteacher preparation are emerging across East African countries but are dependent on support from the private sector and political leaders. Recommendations for further research are presented.