Minnesota Paraprofessional Quick Facts
Required Score
Varies by district (commonly 460 - each district sets own passing score)
Minimum passing score
Test Duration
2.5 hours
Total testing time
Test Sections
3 Sections
Reading, Writing, and Mathematics
Test Fee
$55-85 (Community-based $55, Prometric $85)
Standard assessment cost
School Districts
325
Districts in state
Governing Body
Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) and Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB) - No mandatory statewide license; "highly qualified" status verified at local level; Optional Paraprofessional Credential in development
Alternative Qualifications
- Associate's Degree or higher from accredited institution
- 60 semester credits (two years of study) from accredited institution
Background Check
Required
Mandatory fingerprint-based background check under Minnesota Statute 123B.03 through Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) and FBI; Age 18+; PERA retirement enrollment; Education Minnesota union representation
Salary Range
Typical annual salary
Overview of Paraprofessional Qualifications in Minnesota
To comply with the federal Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), Minnesota 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.
Minnesota's Approach: Local Control with Professional Standards
Minnesota does not issue a mandatory statewide license for general paraprofessionals. Instead, the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) defines the acceptable pathways to becoming "highly qualified," but each of the state's 300+ local school districts and regional service cooperatives controls its own qualification process, including setting passing scores for the ParaPro Assessment. A "Paraprofessional Credential" is currently in development, and the state has established detailed Paraprofessional Core Competencies that guide training and professional development. Minnesota has also been a national leader in professionalizing the paraprofessional role.
Requirements for Paraprofessionals in Minnesota
To work as an instructional paraprofessional in a Minnesota Title I school, you need a high school diploma or GED plus one of the following qualifications. The key thing to know is that Minnesota gives each district the power to set its own ParaPro passing score.
Three Pathways to Qualification
Option 1: Higher Education Degree
Hold an associate's degree or higher (bachelor's, master's) from an accredited college or university.
- Official, sealed transcript required from the registrar (copies and photos are not accepted)
- Must be accredited by a recognized regional body (HLC for Minnesota and surrounding region)
- Transcript will be checked for degree conferral date and accreditation status
Option 2: College Coursework (60 Semester Credits)
Complete at least two years of study at an accredited institution, defined as a minimum of 60 semester credits (or the equivalent in quarter credits).
- Official transcript is the only acceptable proof; HR will count credits carefully
- Courses numbered 100/1000+ count; remedial or developmental courses do not
- Quarter credits from quarter-system schools are accepted at the equivalent ratio
Option 3: ETS ParaPro Assessment (Score Varies by District)
This is the most important thing to understand about Minnesota: there is no single statewide passing score. Each district sets its own. Many large districts have converged on 460, but you need to verify the exact score with the district you're applying to.
- Anoka-Hennepin School District: 460
- Minneapolis Public Schools: 460
- Saint Paul Public Schools: 460
- Always confirm the specific score with your target district before scheduling your test
Additional Mandatory Minnesota Requirements
- Criminal History Background Check: Required under Minnesota Statute 123B.03. Fingerprints are submitted to the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) for a state check and the FBI for a national check. Certain felony and gross misdemeanor convictions can be disqualifying.
- Age: Must be at least 18 years old.
- Education: Must hold a high school diploma or GED.
Who Needs to Be "Highly Qualified" in Minnesota?
The "highly qualified" standard applies to all paraprofessionals providing instructional support in a Title I school. Since many Minnesota schools operate as Title I school-wide programs, these requirements cover the vast majority of instructional positions.
Must Meet Requirements
- • Instructional Paraprofessionals/Educational Assistants: Aides providing academic support in core subjects
- • Title I Paraprofessionals: Aides providing targeted academic interventions in reading or math
- • Special Education Paraprofessionals: The largest and most in-demand category, supporting students with IEPs under a licensed special education teacher
- • EL Paraprofessionals: Assistants supporting English learners; in the Twin Cities, fluency in Spanish, Hmong, or Somali is often needed
- • Pre-Kindergarten Assistants: Aides in Minnesota's public Pre-K and early childhood programs
May Not Need Requirements
- • Lunchroom or Recess Supervisors: Purely supervisory roles
- • Bus and Hall Monitors: Non-instructional supervisory staff
- • Personal Care Attendants (PCAs): If duties are strictly non-instructional; however, blended roles that include instructional support require qualification
- • Community or Cultural Liaisons: Staff who work with families but do not provide instruction
Minnesota ParaPro Assessment Details
The ParaPro Assessment is the primary tool used by Minnesota school districts to qualify candidates through the testing pathway. Here's what each section covers and how it connects to real classroom work in Minnesota.
Reading (30 Questions)
Skills Tested: Reading comprehension, identifying main ideas, locating supporting details, defining vocabulary in context, and making logical inferences.
Minnesota Classroom Example: A paraprofessional in a Duluth elementary school might use these skills to help a small group of students read an informational text about the history of shipping on Lake Superior. They would guide students to identify the different types of ships used (supporting details) and understand the lake's importance to the regional economy (main idea).
Writing (30 Questions)
Skills Tested: Command of grammar, usage, punctuation, and spelling. No essay writing is required; instead, you identify and correct errors in provided text.
Minnesota Classroom Example: An aide in a Rochester high school could be working with a student on a research paper about the Mayo Clinic. The aide would help the student proofread their draft, correcting run-on sentences, checking comma usage, and fixing spelling errors to produce a clear and polished final product.
Mathematics (30 Questions)
Skills Tested: Operations with whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and percentages; basic algebra; geometry and measurement; and data interpretation from charts and graphs.
Minnesota Classroom Example: A paraprofessional in a suburban Twin Cities school (like Wayzata or Edina) might help students with a hands-on math project that involves calculating the volume of water in a model of one of the local lakes or interpreting a graph showing annual snowfall totals.
Preparing for Your Minnesota 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.
Free Study Resources
- ETS ParaPro practice materials: ETS provides free sample questions and a study companion on their website. This is the best starting point.
- Khan Academy: Great for brushing up on math, from basic arithmetic through algebra and geometry. Free and self-paced.
- Minnesota public library resources: Your library card gives you access to LearningExpress Library, which has ParaPro-specific practice tests and skill-building courses.
- 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 don't need to spend money to pass, but some people prefer the structure of a paid resource:
- ParaPro study guide books ($20-40): Available on Amazon or at your local bookstore. Look for recent editions.
- Online prep courses ($50-150): Video lessons, quizzes, and full-length practice tests. Helpful if you learn better with guided instruction.
- Video tutorial packages: Focused video bundles on specific subjects. Good if reading-heavy materials aren't your thing.
Minnesota-Specific Tip
Before you start studying, confirm the exact passing score with the district you're applying to. While 460 is a common benchmark, some districts may set a different threshold. Also, check whether the district you're targeting administers the ParaPro directly or if you'll need to go through a regional service cooperative or take the test at home through ETS. Some larger districts like Anoka-Hennepin and Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan are certified to administer the test in-house. Community and technical colleges in the Minnesota State system also offer testing.
Test Day: What to Expect in Minnesota
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 your confirmation email or registration receipt from ETS or the testing district.
Testing rooms can be cold, especially in winter. A light jacket lets you adjust.
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 later.
Read carefully
Many wrong answers come from misreading. Pay attention to words like "not," "except," and "best."
Eliminate wrong answers
On multiple-choice questions, crossing out answers you know are wrong improves your odds even when unsure.
Don't leave blanks
There's no penalty for guessing on the ParaPro. Fill in your best guess for every remaining question.
About Minnesota Testing Locations
In Minnesota, testing happens at several types of locations: larger school districts like Anoka-Hennepin and Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan administer the test in-house, regional service cooperatives (such as Metro ECSU and Sourcewell) serve as testing hubs, and many community and technical colleges in the Minnesota State system have testing centers. At-home testing through ETS is also available and often the most flexible option.
How to Register for an Assessment in Minnesota
The registration process in Minnesota is managed at the local and regional level. Here's how to work through it step by step.
Choose Your Testing Option
For at-home testing, register directly through the ETS website. For in-person testing, contact the HR department of the district you're targeting, or check with a regional service cooperative or community college testing center.
Study and Take the Test
Use free ETS study materials, Khan Academy, and library resources to prepare. Make sure you know the specific passing score for your target district before test day.
Search for Jobs and Apply
Check individual district websites and EdPost.pro, which aggregates job postings from many Minnesota schools. Upload your resume, references, and proof of qualification (ParaPro score report or transcripts).
After the Test: The Minnesota Hiring Process
Passing the assessment is your key to becoming "highly qualified" and moving forward in the hiring process.
- Step 1: Get Your Qualifications in Order. Have your official college transcripts or ParaPro score report ready before applying.
- Step 2: Search for Jobs. Go to individual district "Careers" pages. Many use AppliTrack or Frontline Education platforms. EdPost.pro is a great statewide resource.
- Step 3: Apply Thoroughly. Upload all supporting documents including proof of qualification.
- Step 4: Interview. After HR verifies your "highly qualified" status, principals with vacancies will contact you.
- Step 5: Conditional Job Offer. If the interview goes well, HR extends a conditional offer.
- Step 6: Background Check and Onboarding. Complete your BCA and FBI fingerprint-based background checks.
- Step 7: Finalization. Once background checks clear and paperwork is complete, you'll be scheduled for new hire orientation covering district policies, benefits, and payroll.
Pathway to Teaching in Minnesota
Minnesota has a four-tiered system for teacher licensure. If you have an associate's degree or are working toward a bachelor's, you can often qualify for a Tier 1 or Tier 2 license, letting you work as a teacher while completing your education.
The state legislature has funded "Grow Your Own" grants that help districts support their paraprofessionals, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, in becoming fully licensed teachers. Many districts also partner with universities in the Minnesota State system (like Minnesota State University, Mankato and St. Cloud State University) for streamlined and affordable teaching degree programs.
Paraprofessional Salary and Employment in Minnesota
Salaries for paraprofessionals in Minnesota are among the highest in the Midwest, reflecting the state's strong economy and commitment to public education.
Typical Starting Range
Experienced / Higher Districts
Salary by Region
Twin Cities Metro Area (Hennepin, Ramsey, Dakota, Anoka): Highest concentration of jobs and the highest salaries in the state. Affluent suburban districts like Edina, Wayzata, and Minnetonka are among the top-paying in the nation for support staff.
Rochester: Home to the Mayo Clinic, Rochester Public Schools offers competitive pay to attract talent in a high-cost-of-living area.
Duluth and the Iron Range: Salaries reflect the regional economy.
Rural and Agricultural Areas: Salaries are typically lower but balanced by a more affordable cost of living.
Typical Benefits Package
High-Demand Roles
Special Education Paraprofessionals: The most critical area of need statewide. There is constant demand for aides working with students with Emotional/Behavioral Disorders (EBD) and Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).
EL Paraprofessionals: With large immigrant communities in the Twin Cities, paraprofessionals fluent in Spanish, Hmong, and Somali are in extremely high demand.
Early Childhood Paraprofessionals: Aides with experience in early childhood special education (ECSE) and public Pre-K programs are highly valued.
Minnesota ParaPro Test Centers
Tests administered by school districts and approved testing centers.
Important Information
- Use EdPost.pro as your primary statewide job search resource for Minnesota schools
- Regional service cooperatives (Metro ECSU, Sourcewell) provide testing and professional development
- Many Minnesota State community and technical colleges also offer ParaPro testing
Frequently Asked Questions - Minnesota Paraprofessionals
Is there a state-level license for paraprofessionals in Minnesota?
Currently, there is no mandatory statewide license to be hired as a general paraprofessional. The state is developing a "Paraprofessional Credential" to further professionalize the role. Paraprofessionals who meet certain requirements can also apply for a "Short-Call Substitute License" from PELSB, which allows them to substitute teach.
What is the difference between the MDE and PELSB?
The Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) is the state agency that oversees K-12 education, sets standards, and administers funding. The Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB) is the independent state board responsible for issuing all educator licenses (for teachers, administrators, etc.).
How do I find job openings in Minnesota?
EdPost.pro is a great statewide resource that aggregates job postings from many Minnesota schools. You should also go directly to the "Careers" or "Human Resources" page of individual school district websites, as they are the primary source for openings.
I passed the ParaPro test in another state. Will Minnesota accept my score?
Yes. Since the ParaPro is a national test, a Minnesota school district will accept your official score report, as long as your score meets their specific local passing threshold (commonly 460, but verify with the district).
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.
