Maryland Paraprofessional Quick Facts
Required Score
455 (Statewide minimum set by MSDE)
Minimum passing score
Test Duration
2.5 hours
Total testing time
Test Sections
3 Sections
Reading, Writing, and Mathematics
Test Fee
$65-95 (Varies by testing location)
Standard assessment cost
School Districts
24
Districts in state
Governing Body
Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) - No state license issued; "Maryland Qualified" status verified at local level; 24 Local School Systems (LSSs)
Alternative Qualifications
- Associate's Degree or higher from accredited institution
- 48 semester hours of college coursework from accredited institution
Background Check
Required
Mandatory fingerprint-based background check through Maryland Criminal Justice Information System (CJIS) and FBI; Child Protective Services (CPS) background check; Age 18+; Maryland State Retirement and Pension System (MSRPS) enrollment; MSEA union representation
Salary Range
Typical annual salary
Overview of Paraprofessional Qualifications in Maryland
To comply with the federal Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), Maryland 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.
Maryland's "Maryland Qualified" Standard
The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) defines precise qualification pathways and a statewide minimum passing score of 455 on the ParaPro Assessment. A paraprofessional who meets these requirements is officially known as "Maryland Qualified." The state's 24 local school systems (LSSs), one per county plus Baltimore City, handle the hiring and verification process while following the MSDE's standards.
Maryland's approach is tied to its broader commitment to educational quality, seen in the ambitious "Blueprint for Maryland's Future" reform plan. The state treats paraprofessionals as a key part of the instructional workforce, not just support staff. By setting a firm statewide benchmark, the MSDE ensures that whether you work in Baltimore City, Montgomery County, or a rural district on the Eastern Shore, you have demonstrated the same level of academic skill.
The three distinct pathways to qualification (degree, college credits, or the ParaPro test) are designed to make the process accessible. You pick the option that fits your background. And once you are "Maryland Qualified," local school systems and the state place a strong emphasis on continued professional development, particularly in special education, reading intervention, and behavior management.
Requirements for Paraprofessionals in Maryland
State education codes and federal ESSA guidelines establish clear standards for all instructional paraprofessionals working in Title I programs.
Three Pathways to Qualification
To work as an instructional paraprofessional in a Maryland Title I school, you need a high school diploma or GED plus at least one of the following:
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
- The institution must be regionally accredited (e.g., by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education - MSCHE)
- HR will require an official, sealed transcript sent directly from the registrar of your institution
Option 2: College Credits
Complete at least 48 semester units (or 72 quarter units) of college coursework.
- Official transcript required
- Degree-applicable courses only
- Only courses numbered 100 or above count. Remedial or developmental courses will not be included in your 48-hour total.
- An official transcript is the only acceptable proof. HR will review it closely.
Option 3: Assessment
Pass a formal state or locally approved assessment demonstrating knowledge in reading, writing, and mathematics.
- ETS ParaPro Assessment with a passing score of 455 (the statewide minimum set by the MSDE)
- The ParaPro is the only state-recognized assessment option for candidates who do not meet the college credit requirements
- Your official ETS score report is your proof of qualification
Additional Maryland Requirements
Beyond meeting one of the three pathways above, all prospective paraprofessionals in Maryland must also satisfy these requirements:
- 1. Criminal History Records Check: Fingerprint-based background check through the Maryland Criminal Justice Information System (CJIS) and the FBI. This is non-negotiable. You cannot have contact with students until it clears.
- 2. Child Protective Services Check: Many school systems also require a background clearance from the local Department of Social Services for any history of child abuse or neglect.
- 3. Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old, though some systems prefer candidates who are 21.
- 4. Education: High school diploma or GED required.
Who Needs to Be "Maryland Qualified"?
The "Maryland Qualified" standard applies to all paraprofessionals who provide instructional support in a Title I school. Since many Maryland schools operate as Title I school-wide programs, these requirements cover the vast majority of instructional paraeducator positions across the state.
Must Be "Maryland Qualified"
- • Instructional Paraprofessionals/Paraeducators: Aides providing academic support in core subjects
- • Title I Paraprofessionals: Staff hired specifically with Title I funds for targeted academic interventions
- • Special Education Paraeducators: Aides supporting IEP goals under a certified special education teacher. This is the largest and most in-demand category in Maryland.
- • ESOL Paraprofessionals: Assistants providing language and academic support to English learners
- • Pre-Kindergarten Assistants: Aides in Maryland's public Pre-K programs
May Not Need to Be "Maryland Qualified"
- • Non-Instructional Aides: Playground monitors, cafeteria monitors, and bus aides whose duties are purely supervisory
- • Personal Care Assistants: Aides whose duties are strictly related to a student's physical or health needs (though any instructional support triggers the requirement)
- • Parent Liaisons or Community Outreach Coordinators: Staff who work with families but do not provide instruction
ParaPro Assessment In-Depth Breakdown
The ParaPro is designed to confirm that you have the fundamental academic skills needed to assist in classroom instruction. It covers 90 multiple-choice questions across three sections, and you have 2.5 hours to complete it. Here is what each section looks like in practice.
Reading (30 Questions)
- Measures your ability to comprehend and analyze a variety of written materials
- Tests skills in identifying main ideas, locating key details, defining vocabulary in context, and making logical inferences
- Maryland example: You might help students in an Anne Arundel County classroom read a historical text about the founding of Annapolis, guiding them to identify key figures and understand the significance of Annapolis as an early colonial capital
Writing (30 Questions)
- Evaluates your knowledge of standard written English, including grammar, sentence structure, punctuation, and spelling
- Assesses your ability to apply this knowledge when helping students improve their writing
- Maryland example: An aide in Baltimore County Public Schools could help a student proofread a research paper about the economic importance of the Port of Baltimore, correcting sentence fragments and checking comma usage
Mathematics (30 Questions)
- Covers operations with fractions, decimals, and percentages, plus basic algebra and geometry
- Includes data interpretation from charts and graphs
- Maryland example: A paraeducator in Montgomery County Public Schools might help elementary students with a hands-on science project measuring and graphing water quality of a local Chesapeake Bay tributary, working with decimals and creating line graphs
After the Test: Getting Hired in Maryland
Passing the assessment makes you "Maryland Qualified" and clears the way for you to move through the hiring process. Here is what happens next.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Hired
- Step 1: Get Your Qualifications in Order. Have your proof of qualification ready before you apply. That means either your official college transcripts or a ParaPro score report showing a 455 or higher.
- Step 2: Search for Jobs. Hiring in Maryland is handled by the 24 local school systems. Visit the "Careers" or "Human Resources" pages on the websites of the counties where you want to work (e.g., Carroll County, Harford County, Baltimore City). Check regularly for new postings.
- Step 3: Complete the Application. Fill out the school system's online application thoroughly. Upload your resume, references, and proof of qualification (a scanned copy of your ParaPro score report or college transcripts).
- Step 4: Interview. After HR verifies your "Maryland Qualified" status, your application goes to school principals with openings. A principal or assistant principal will contact you to schedule an interview.
- Step 5: Conditional Job Offer. If the interview goes well, the principal recommends you for hire, and HR extends a conditional offer of employment.
- Step 6: Background Check and Onboarding. You will complete the fingerprinting process for the state and national background checks. Do not delay on this step.
- Step 7: Finalization. Once your background checks clear and your pre-employment paperwork is complete, your employment is finalized and you will be scheduled for a new hire orientation.
If You Need to Retake
- Step 1: Check the Waiting Period. ETS has a 21-day waiting period between retakes. Some testing locations may have additional scheduling constraints.
- Step 2: Review Your Score Report. Your ETS score report will show how you performed in each section. Use this to focus your study time on the areas where you scored lowest.
- Step 3: Study with Focus. Use the waiting period productively. Target the specific sections that need improvement rather than trying to cover everything again.
- Step 4: Re-register. Sign up for the test again through the ETS website or your local community college testing center.
Preparing for Your Maryland ParaPro Assessment
How much time you need depends on where you are starting from. If you have been in college recently, a couple of weeks of review might be plenty. If it has been years since you sat down with a math textbook, plan for more time. There is no rush.
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 brush up on any weak spots.
Solid Preparation
The sweet spot for most people. Enough time to work through a study guide, take practice tests, and revisit topics you have not looked at in a while.
In-Depth Review
If you have been out of school for a while or math and writing feel unfamiliar, give yourself extra time. The confidence you build is worth it on test day.
Free Study Resources
- Maryland public library databases: Your Maryland library card gives you access to LearningExpress Library, which has ParaPro-specific practice tests and skill-building courses. Check your county library's website for access details.
- Khan Academy: Great for brushing up on math, from basic arithmetic through algebra and geometry. Free and self-paced.
- ETS ParaPro study materials: The ETS website offers free sample questions and a test overview that shows you the exact format you will face on test day.
- Online practice tests: Sites like parapropracticetest.com and uniontestprep.com/parapro-assessment offer free practice questions covering reading, writing, and math.
Paid Study Options
You do not 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 are not your thing.
Maryland-Specific Tip
Since the ETS ParaPro Assessment is the sole state-recognized testing option in Maryland, all generic ParaPro prep material will align directly with what you face on test day. Contact the testing center at your local community college (e.g., Montgomery College, CCBC, or Anne Arundel Community College) to ask if they offer any preparatory workshops or study sessions before the exam.
Test Day: What to Expect in Maryland
Knowing what to expect on test day removes a lot of the stress. Whether you are testing at a community college or taking the at-home proctored version, here is a rundown.
What to Bring
Driver's license, state ID, or passport. Make sure it is not expired.
Bring the confirmation email or registration receipt from ETS or your community college 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. Give yourself time to find the testing room, settle in, and handle any paperwork without rushing.
- 2 Present your photo ID. A proctor will check your identity against the test roster.
- 3 Store personal items. You will 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
You have about 1 minute and 40 seconds per question. If you get stuck, mark it and move on. Come back to it later if there is time.
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 are unsure about the right one.
Do not leave blanks
There is no penalty for guessing on the ParaPro. If time is running out, fill in your best guess for every remaining question.
About Maryland Testing Locations
Most in-person testing in Maryland happens at community college testing centers. The Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC), Montgomery College, and Anne Arundel Community College are some of the most popular options. You can also take the test from home through the ETS at-home proctored version, which is often the most flexible choice. Some larger school systems like Baltimore City and Montgomery County may also administer the test directly to applicants.
Paraprofessional Salary and Employment in Maryland
Maryland is one of the wealthiest states in the nation, and paraprofessional salaries here reflect that. Pay varies significantly by region, with the D.C. suburbs offering the highest compensation.
Typical Starting Range
Experienced / Higher Districts
Salary by Region
D.C. Suburbs (Montgomery and Prince George's Counties): The highest salaries in the state. These are two of the largest and wealthiest school districts in the nation, offering top compensation and benefits to compete for talent in a high-cost-of-living area.
Baltimore Metro Area (Baltimore, Anne Arundel, Howard, Harford Counties): Very competitive pay and a large number of job opportunities across the region.
Western Maryland and Eastern Shore: Salaries are typically lower than in central Maryland, but the cost of living is more affordable, which helps balance things out.
Typical Benefits Package
High-Demand Roles in Maryland
Special Education Paraeducators: This is the most critical area of need across the entire state. There is constant demand for aides who work with students with a wide range of disabilities, from mild learning disabilities to significant medical and behavioral needs.
ESOL Paraprofessionals: With diverse and growing immigrant communities in the D.C. and Baltimore metro areas, bilingual aides (especially Spanish/English) are in very high demand.
Pre-Kindergarten Paraprofessionals: Maryland has a strong, state-funded Pre-K program that creates a consistent need for qualified aides in early childhood settings.
Maryland ParaPro Test Centers
Tests administered by school districts and approved testing centers.
Important Information
- Maryland's 16 community colleges are the primary in-person testing providers. Check their testing center websites for schedules and fees.
- ETS at-home testing is available with wide scheduling flexibility
- Some larger school systems may administer the test directly to their applicants. Contact the HR department of the LSS where you want to work.
How to Register for an Assessment in Maryland
There are three main ways to register for the ParaPro in Maryland. Pick the one that works best for your schedule and location.
At-Home Testing (Most Flexible)
ETS offers a live, remotely proctored version of the ParaPro that you can take from home. Register directly through the ETS website. This option has the widest scheduling availability and is often the most convenient choice.
In-Person at a Community College
Maryland's community college system is the primary provider of in-person ParaPro testing. Nearly all 16 community colleges have testing centers that offer the exam. Popular options include the Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC), Montgomery College, Anne Arundel Community College, and Prince George's Community College. Visit the college's testing center website to check schedules, register, and pay.
Through a Local School System
Some of the larger school systems may be certified to administer the ParaPro directly to their applicants. Contact the HR department of the local school system where you want to work (e.g., Howard County Public School System, Frederick County Public Schools) to ask about this option.
Pathway to a Teaching Career in Maryland
If you want to eventually become a teacher, Maryland has clear pathways to help. The Maryland Approved Alternative Preparation Programs (MAAPP) let you earn certification if you already have a bachelor's degree. Your hands-on classroom experience as a paraeducator makes you an especially strong candidate.
Many school systems also participate in "Grow Your Own" initiatives supported by the Blueprint for Maryland's Future. These programs provide financial assistance, scholarships, and mentorship for current paraprofessionals to complete their bachelor's degree and earn a teaching license.
Frequently Asked Questions - Maryland Paraprofessionals
Is there a state-level license for paraprofessionals in Maryland?
No. Maryland does not issue a state-level license or certificate. Your qualification is a status, being "Maryland Qualified," which is verified and documented by your employing school system.
What is the "Blueprint for Maryland's Future"?
It is a landmark, multi-billion-dollar education reform law that is transforming Maryland's schools. A key component of the Blueprint is to elevate the careers of educators, including creating a career ladder and increasing compensation for paraprofessionals who take on more responsibility or work with students with intensive needs.
How do I find job openings in Maryland?
Go directly to the "Careers" or "Human Resources" page of the individual local school system websites. Each of the 24 LSSs has its own application system. Make a list of the counties you are willing to work in and check their sites regularly.
I passed the ParaPro in another state. Will Maryland accept my score?
Yes. If your score is 455 or higher, any Maryland school system will accept it as proof of qualification. You just 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.
What happens if I don't pass the assessment?
Most districts have a waiting period (typically 30-90 days) before you can retake the assessment. Use this time to study and prepare. ETS requires a 21-day waiting period between retakes. Use that time to focus on the areas where you scored lowest.
