Illinois Paraprofessional Quick Facts
Required Score
460 (ParaPro) or Composite 12 (WorkKeys: Level 4 on all 3 sections)
Minimum passing score
Test Duration
ParaPro: 2.5 hours; WorkKeys: Varies (typically 55 min per section)
Total testing time
Test Sections
3 Sections
Reading, Writing, and Mathematics
Test Fee
Varies by location and test provider
Standard assessment cost
School Districts
850
Districts in state
Governing Body
Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) - Requires Paraprofessional Educator License (ELS-PARA)
Alternative Qualifications
- Associate's Degree (AA, AS) or higher from regionally accredited institution
- 60 semester hours of non-remedial coursework from regionally accredited institution
Background Check
Required
Mandatory fingerprint-based Illinois State Police (ISP) and FBI checks; Age 19+ required; ELS-PARA License (5-year validity); Must be registered with Regional Office of Education (ROE); TRS or IMRF retirement enrollment
Salary Range
Typical annual salary
Overview of Paraprofessional Qualifications in Illinois
To comply with the federal Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), Illinois requires that all paraprofessionals who provide instructional support in Title I-funded programs meet rigorous standards of qualification.
ESSA Compliance and State Standards
The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) establishes federal requirements that paraprofessionals working in Title I programs must meet one of three qualification pathways: hold a degree, complete college coursework, or pass a formal assessment.
Illinois's Centralized Licensure System
Illinois stands out because it requires a state-issued Paraprofessional Educator License (ELS-PARA) from the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE). This means your credential is processed through the same system that licenses teachers, using the Educator Licensure Information System (ELIS). Your ELS-PARA is portable across all 850+ school districts in the state, so you won't need to re-qualify if you move from Chicago to Springfield or anywhere else.
The centralized approach ensures uniform quality and portability. Whether you work in the massive Chicago Public Schools district, suburban Naperville, or a rural district in Southern Illinois, the same standard applies. Illinois also offers two distinct assessment options: the academically focused ETS ParaPro Assessment and the skills-based ACT WorkKeys.
Requirements for Paraprofessionals in Illinois
To obtain the mandatory ELS-PARA from the ISBE, you need to create an account in the Educator Licensure Information System (ELIS) and prove you meet the following requirements. You must be at least 19 years old, hold a high school diploma or equivalent, AND meet one of the four pathways below.
Three Pathways to Qualification
Option 1: Degree
Hold an associate's degree (AA, AS) or higher from an accredited college or university.
- Official sealed transcripts required
- Must be from accredited institution
- You must submit an official, sealed transcript to the ISBE as part of your license application
Option 2: College Credits
Complete at least 48 semester units (or 72 quarter units) of college coursework.
- Official transcript required
- Degree-applicable courses only
- Courses must be non-remedial and non-developmental from a regionally accredited institution; an official transcript is the only acceptable proof
Option 3: ETS ParaPro Assessment
Achieve a passing score on the state-approved academic assessment to demonstrate your knowledge in reading, writing, and mathematics.
- ETS ParaPro Assessment: Achieve a passing score of 460
- Your official ETS score report must be submitted as part of your license application
- 90 multiple-choice questions covering reading, writing, and math in a 2.5-hour session
Option 4: ACT WorkKeys Assessment
Achieve a passing score on this skills-based assessment that measures workplace-ready competencies.
- Applied Mathematics: Minimum score of Level 4
- Reading for Information: Minimum score of Level 4
- Writing/Business Writing: Minimum score of Level 4 (Composite score of 12 required)
Additional Mandatory Requirements for the ELS-PARA
Age Requirement: Unlike many states, Illinois requires you to be at least 19 years old to be licensed as a paraprofessional.
Criminal History Background Check: After receiving a conditional job offer, you must complete a fingerprint-based background check. Results from the Illinois State Police (ISP) and the FBI are reported to the hiring district and the ISBE. You cannot work with students until this check clears.
Application and Fee: You must complete the official application for the ELS-PARA license within your ELIS account and pay the required application and registration fees to the ISBE.
Who Needs a Paraprofessional Educator License in Illinois?
The ELS-PARA is required for any individual employed as a paraprofessional who provides instructional support in an Illinois public school. This applies to aides in both Title I and non-Title I schools.
Must Hold an ELS-PARA License
- • Instructional Paraprofessionals/Teacher's Aides: The general title for aides providing academic support
- • Special Education Paraprofessionals: Aides who support the academic and functional goals in a student's IEP. This is the largest category in Illinois.
- • Bilingual and ESL Paraprofessionals: Assistants who provide language and academic support
- • Title I Aides: Aides hired to provide interventions in Title I programs
May Not Need a License
- • Supervisory Aides: Staff whose duties are exclusively non-instructional (lunchroom, playground, or bus monitors). They may need a separate, less stringent ISBE approval.
- • Personal Care Assistants: Aides whose duties are strictly non-instructional and related to a student's physical or health needs
- • Clerical Aides: Staff performing administrative or clerical tasks
Illinois Assessment Details: ParaPro and WorkKeys
Illinois gives you two distinct testing options to accommodate different strengths. The ParaPro is more academically focused, while WorkKeys measures practical workplace skills.
ParaPro: Reading (30 Questions)
Skills Tested: Comprehending and analyzing texts, identifying main ideas and supporting details, defining vocabulary in context, and drawing logical inferences.
Illinois Classroom Example: A paraprofessional in a Chicago Public Schools classroom might use these skills to help students read a text about the Great Chicago Fire, guiding them to understand the cause-and-effect relationships.
ParaPro: Writing (30 Questions)
Skills Tested: Knowledge of grammar, punctuation, spelling, and sentence structure.
Illinois Classroom Example: An aide in a Springfield high school could help a student proofread an essay about Abraham Lincoln, focusing on correct grammar and clear organization.
ParaPro: Mathematics (30 Questions)
Skills Tested: Operations with fractions, decimals, and percentages; basic algebra; geometry; and data interpretation.
Illinois Classroom Example: A paraprofessional in a suburban Naperville elementary school might help students calculate measurements for a classroom garden or graph local weather data.
ACT WorkKeys Breakdown (Composite Score: 12)
Applied Mathematics (Score: 4)
Using mathematics to solve common workplace problems. Example: Helping a teacher calculate the total cost of a field trip by multiplying the per-student fee by the number of attendees and adding the bus fee.
Reading for Information (Score: 4)
Reading and understanding workplace texts like memos, policies, and instructions. Example: Reading a student's 504 Plan and correctly implementing the required accommodations.
Writing/Business Writing (Score: 4)
Applying knowledge of standard English to produce clear workplace documents. Example: Helping a teacher draft a clear, grammatically correct weekly newsletter to send home to parents.
Preparing for Your Illinois Paraprofessional Assessment
How long you need to study depends on where you're starting from. Some people feel ready after a couple weeks of review. Others need more time, especially if it's been a while since they've done formal math or writing.
Recommended Study Timelines
Quick Refresher
Best if you recently finished college coursework or feel confident in reading, writing, and math. Focus on practice tests and reviewing any weak spots.
Solid Preparation
The sweet spot for most people. Gives you enough time to work through a study guide, take practice tests, and revisit topics you're rusty on without feeling rushed.
In-Depth Review
If you've been out of school for a while or math and writing feel unfamiliar, take the extra time. There's no penalty for being well-prepared, and the confidence boost helps on test day.
Free Study Resources
- ETS official practice tests: The ETS website offers free sample questions and a full-length practice test for the ParaPro. Start here to get a feel for the format and difficulty level.
- Khan Academy: Great for brushing up on math, from basic arithmetic through algebra and geometry. It's free and self-paced.
- Public library databases: Your Illinois library card gives you access to LearningExpress Library, which has ParaPro-specific practice tests and skill-building courses. Check your local library's website.
- Online practice tests: Sites like parapropracticetest.com and uniontestprep.com/parapro-assessment offer free practice questions that cover reading, writing, and math.
Paid Study Options
You don't need to spend money to pass, but some people prefer the structure of a paid resource. Here are the most common options:
- ParaPro study guide books ($20-40): Available on Amazon or at your local bookstore. Look for ones published within the last couple of years so the content stays current.
- Online prep courses ($50-150): These usually include video lessons, quizzes, and multiple full-length practice tests. Helpful if you learn better with guided instruction.
- Video tutorial packages: Some test prep companies sell video bundles focused on specific subjects. These work well if reading-heavy study materials aren't your thing.
Illinois-Specific Tip
Illinois offers two test options, so consider your strengths carefully. If you're stronger in traditional academics, the ParaPro is likely your best bet. If you're more comfortable with practical, workplace-style problems, the ACT WorkKeys might be a better fit. Contact your Regional Office of Education (ROE) for testing schedules and study materials specific to your region. Many ROEs and community colleges like College of DuPage and Waubonsee Community College offer testing directly.
Test Day: What to Expect in Illinois
Knowing what to expect on test day takes away a lot of the stress. Here's a rundown so you can walk in feeling ready.
What to Bring
Driver's license, state ID, or passport. Make sure it's not expired.
Bring the registration confirmation or email from your ROE or testing center.
Testing rooms can be cold. A light jacket or sweater lets you adjust without distraction.
What NOT to Bring
Check-In Procedure
- 1 Arrive 20-30 minutes early. This gives you time to find the room, settle in, and handle any paperwork without rushing.
- 2 Present your photo ID. A proctor will verify your identity against the test roster.
- 3 Store personal items. You'll be asked to put your phone, bag, and other belongings in a designated area.
- 4 Take your assigned seat. The proctor will direct you to your spot and go over the testing rules before the clock starts.
Tips for During the Test
Watch your time
Don't spend too long on any single question. If you're stuck, mark it and move on. You can come back to it if there's time left.
Read carefully
Many wrong answers come from misreading the question. Pay attention to words like "not," "except," and "best." They change the meaning entirely.
Eliminate wrong answers
On multiple-choice questions, crossing out answers you know are wrong improves your odds even when you're unsure about the right one.
Don't leave blanks
There's no penalty for guessing on the ParaPro. If time is running out, fill in your best guess for every remaining question.
About Illinois Testing Locations
Illinois is divided into 38 Regional Offices of Education (ROEs), and they are your primary providers of testing. Many community colleges like College of DuPage and Waubonsee Community College also have testing centers. You can also take the ParaPro at home through ETS's remotely proctored option, which is especially convenient if you're in a rural part of the state.
How to Register for an Assessment in Illinois
The registration process in Illinois is typically handled at the local or regional level. Here's how to get started.
Contact Your Regional Office of Education (ROE)
Illinois is divided into 38 ROEs, and they are the primary providers of testing and licensure support. Visit the website of the ROE that serves your county. They'll have a dedicated page with their testing schedule for both ParaPro and WorkKeys, registration procedures, and fee information.
In-Person Testing at Community Colleges or School Districts
Many Illinois community colleges (such as College of DuPage and Waubonsee Community College) have testing centers that administer both exams. Some large school districts may also offer testing directly to their applicants.
At-Home Testing Option
The remotely proctored at-home version of the ETS ParaPro test is a valid option. You can register for it directly on the ETS website. This is especially helpful for residents in rural parts of Illinois.
Pathway to Teaching in Illinois
The ISBE and many districts actively support "Grow Your Own" initiatives. There are specific state grants available to help districts provide financial assistance for their current paraprofessionals to complete a bachelor's degree and earn a Professional Educator License (PEL).
If you already have a bachelor's degree, you can enroll in an alternative licensure program. Your classroom experience as a paraprofessional will be a significant advantage.
After the Test: The Illinois Licensure Process
Passing the test is the first step. The next phase is applying for your mandatory state license through the ISBE.
Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining Your ELS-PARA License
Obtaining Your License
- Step 1: Pass Your Chosen Assessment. Get your official score report from ETS or ACT, or have your official college transcripts ready.
- Step 2: Create an Account in ELIS. The Educator Licensure Information System is the ISBE's online portal for all educator licensing. You must create a personal profile.
- Step 3: Apply for the License. Log into your ELIS account and complete the official application for the "Paraprofessional Educator (ELS-PARA)" license.
- Step 4: Submit All Documentation. Have your official transcripts or test scores sent directly to the ISBE. Follow the instructions in your ELIS account carefully.
- Step 5: Pay the Application Fee. Pay the license application fee directly to the ISBE through your ELIS account.
- Step 6: Get Hired and Complete the Background Check. Once offered a position, you'll get instructions for the fingerprint-based background check through the Illinois State Police and FBI.
- Step 7: Register Your License. After the ISBE issues your license, you must register it with the ROE that serves the region where you will be working. You'll pay a registration fee. Your license is not valid for employment until it is registered.
Paraprofessional Salary and Employment in Illinois
Salaries for paraprofessionals in Illinois vary dramatically between the high-cost Chicago metropolitan area and the rest of the state.
Typical Starting Range
Experienced / Higher Districts
Salary by Region
Chicago and Collar Counties (Cook, DuPage, Lake, Kane, McHenry, Will): This region offers the highest salaries in the state to compensate for a high cost of living. Districts like New Trier Township High School District, Naperville CUSD 203, and many North Shore suburbs are known for excellent pay and benefits.
Downstate Illinois: Salaries are significantly lower than in the Chicago area but are balanced by a much more affordable cost of living.
Typical Benefits Package
High-Demand Roles
Special Education Paraprofessionals: This is the most critical area of need across the entire state. There is a constant demand for aides to work with students with a wide range of disabilities.
Bilingual (Spanish/English) Paraprofessionals: Highly sought after, particularly in Chicago and surrounding suburban districts with large Hispanic populations.
Illinois ParaPro Test Centers
Tests administered by school districts and approved testing centers.
Important Information
- Contact your Regional Office of Education (ROE) for testing schedules and registration
- The ELS-PARA license is valid for five years and is renewable
- At-home testing through ETS is available for Illinois residents
Frequently Asked Questions - Illinois Paraprofessionals
What is the difference between the ELS-PARA and a substitute license?
The ELS-PARA license is specifically for working as a paraprofessional. A Substitute Teaching License (SUB) has different requirements (typically a bachelor's degree) and allows you to serve as a classroom teacher when the regular teacher is absent. Some individuals hold both.
What is an ROE?
A Regional Office of Education is an intermediate educational agency in Illinois. There are 38 of them, and they provide a wide range of services, including testing, license registration, and professional development for the school districts in their region. They are your primary local contact for licensure questions.
How do I renew my ELS-PARA license?
The license is valid for five years. To renew it, you must pay a registration fee to the ISBE. As of recent changes, paraprofessionals are no longer required to complete professional development hours for renewal, although it is still highly encouraged.
I passed the ParaPro test in another state. Will Illinois accept my score?
Yes. If you passed the ParaPro with a score of 460 or higher, the ISBE will accept that score as proof of qualification for the ELS-PARA license. You will need to provide your official ETS score report.
How long does it take to get certified?
The timeline varies, but most candidates complete the process within 2-4 weeks after passing the assessment, including background check clearance.
Can I work while completing my certification?
Some districts allow provisional or probationary employment while you complete requirements, but this varies by district policy.
