North Dakota Paraprofessional Quick Facts
Required Score
464
Minimum passing score
Test Duration
2.5 hours
Total testing time
Test Sections
3 Sections
Reading, Writing, and Mathematics
Test Fee
$55 / $85 Prometric
Standard assessment cost
School Districts
142
Districts in state
Governing Body
North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board (ESPB) issues mandatory state Paraprofessional Certificates. Tiered system: Paraprofessional I (entry-level) and Paraprofessional II (advanced). Certificate valid for two years. All applicants must undergo fingerprint-based state and national background checks processed by ESPB.
Alternative Qualifications
- Associate's Degree or higher from accredited institution
- 48 semester hours of college coursework from accredited institution
- ETS ParaPro Assessment with minimum score of 464
- Advanced Para II: Para I requirements + 15 education credits + apprenticeship + portfolio
Background Check
Required
Mandatory fingerprint-based state and national criminal history records check processed by the North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board (ESPB) as part of the certification application. Results reviewed before certificate issuance.
Salary Range
Typical annual salary
Overview of Paraprofessional Qualifications in North Dakota
To comply with the federal Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), North Dakota 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.
North Dakota's Philosophy: A Professional Ladder for an Important Role
North Dakota has built one of the most structured paraprofessional systems in the country. The state requires a mandatory, tiered Paraprofessional Certificate issued by the Education Standards and Practices Board (ESPB). This is not just a "highly qualified" status verified at the district level. It is a formal state credential that you carry with you.
The tiered system (Paraprofessional I and Paraprofessional II) treats instructional support as a professional career with a clear path for advancement. It rewards continued education and professional development, and it sets North Dakota apart from states that leave qualification entirely up to local districts.
North Dakota's education system is shaped by its vast rural areas, a strong sense of community control, and a focus on well-rounded education for all students. The certification system reflects these values by standardizing quality and safety across every school in the state.
Requirements for Paraprofessionals in North Dakota
The path to becoming a paraprofessional in North Dakota is a clear, sequential process. You must apply for and be issued a certificate from the ESPB. The level you qualify for depends on your academic background.
Paraprofessional I Certificate (The Entry Point)
The Paraprofessional I is the introductory-level certificate required for all new instructional paraprofessionals. It confirms that you have met the basic ESSA academic requirements. You must hold a high school diploma or GED, complete the ESPB certification application, undergo the criminal history record check, and meet ONE of these three academic pathways:
Option 1: Higher Education Degree
Hold an associate's degree or higher from an accredited college or university.
- Associate's, bachelor's, or master's degree accepted
- Must be from an accredited institution
- You must provide official transcripts with your application to the ESPB
Option 2: College Coursework
Complete at least 48 semester hours of credit at an accredited institution of higher education.
- 48 semester hours minimum from an accredited institution
- An official transcript is the only acceptable proof
- Credits do not need to be in any specific subject area
Option 3: Formal Academic Assessment
Achieve a passing score on the state-approved assessment.
- ETS ParaPro Assessment with a minimum passing score of 464
- This is the official minimum score set by the ESPB
- 90 multiple-choice questions across reading, writing, and math
Paraprofessional II Certificate (The Advanced Level)
The Para II certificate is for paraprofessionals who want to move up in the profession. It qualifies you for higher-level positions and a higher salary. To earn it, you must meet all the Para I requirements plus complete all of the following:
- 1. College Coursework: At least 15 semester hours in a content area related to education (e.g., child development, special education, curriculum and instruction).
- 2. Apprenticeship/Mentorship: Complete a state-approved apprenticeship or mentorship program for paraprofessionals.
- 3. Portfolio: Develop and submit a professional portfolio that demonstrates your skills and competencies.
Who Needs a Paraprofessional Certificate in North Dakota?
The certificate is required for any individual employed in a North Dakota public school who provides instructional support to students under the supervision of a certified teacher.
Must Hold a Certificate
- • Instructional Paraprofessionals: The general title for aides providing academic support
- • Special Education Paraprofessionals: The vast majority in North Dakota fall into this category, supporting students with IEPs
- • Title I Paraprofessionals: Aides hired to provide interventions in Title I programs
- • Library Media Aides: If the role includes helping students with research, teaching information literacy, or leading reading groups
- • Pre-K and Kindergarten Aides: Aides working in North Dakota's public early childhood programs
May Not Need a Certificate
- • Supervisory Aides: Staff whose duties are exclusively non-instructional (e.g., playground monitors, cafeteria aides, bus monitors)
- • Study Hall Monitors: Staff who supervise but do not instruct
- • Clerical Aides: Staff in purely administrative roles
- • Volunteers: Individuals who are not employed by the school
North Dakota ParaPro Assessment Details
The ParaPro Assessment is the sole test option for candidates seeking the Paraprofessional I certificate who do not meet the college credit requirements. The passing score of 464 is a firm, statewide standard set by the ESPB. The test is designed to confirm that you have the foundational academic skills to assist with classroom instruction.
In-Depth Breakdown: A North Dakota Context
Reading (30 Questions)
Skills Tested: This section measures your ability to understand and analyze a variety of written materials. It covers identifying the main idea, locating key details, defining vocabulary in context, and making logical inferences.
North Dakota Classroom Example: A paraprofessional in a school in the Red River Valley might use these skills to help a small group of students read and understand a text about the history of agriculture in the region. You would guide students to identify the different crops grown (supporting details) and understand the importance of farming to the state's economy (main idea).
Writing (30 Questions)
Skills Tested: This section evaluates your knowledge of standard written English, including grammar, sentence structure, punctuation, and spelling. It also assesses your ability to apply this knowledge when helping students with writing.
North Dakota Classroom Example: A paraprofessional in a Bismarck high school could use this expertise to help a student proofread an essay about the history of the state capitol. You would help correct sentence fragments, ensure proper use of commas, and check for spelling errors so the student can build a more persuasive argument.
Mathematics (30 Questions)
Skills Tested: This section covers operations with whole numbers, fractions, and decimals; basic algebra; geometry and measurement; and data interpretation from charts and graphs.
North Dakota Classroom Example: A paraprofessional in a school in the western part of the state might help students with a math project that involves calculating the area of a ranch or interpreting a graph showing oil production in the Bakken formation.
Preparing for Your North Dakota ParaPro Assessment
How much time you need to prepare depends on where you're starting. Some people feel ready after a couple weeks of focused review. Others need more time, especially if it has been a while since they have done formal math or writing. The good news is that the ParaPro tests foundational skills, not advanced ones.
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. This gives you enough time to work through a study guide, take practice tests, and revisit topics you feel rusty on without feeling rushed.
In-Depth Review
If you have been out of school for a while or math and writing feel unfamiliar, take the extra time. There is no penalty for being well-prepared, and the confidence boost helps on test day.
Free Study Resources
- ETS ParaPro study materials: The official ETS website provides a free study companion for the ParaPro Assessment. It includes sample questions and an overview of what each section covers.
- Khan Academy: Great for brushing up on math, from basic arithmetic through algebra and geometry. It is free and self-paced.
- North Dakota State Library: Your library card may give you access to LearningExpress Library, which has ParaPro-specific practice tests and skill-building courses. Check the North Dakota State Library website for details.
- 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 do not need to spend money to pass, but some people prefer the structure of a paid resource. Here are the most popular 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.
North Dakota-Specific Tip
Since North Dakota uses the standard ETS ParaPro Assessment with a firm statewide passing score of 464, you know exactly what to prepare for. Contact your Regional Education Association (REA) as they sometimes offer workshops or study groups for prospective paraprofessionals. The ESPB website also provides guidance on the certification process, which can help you plan your timeline from test prep through certificate issuance.
Test Day: What to Expect in North Dakota
Knowing what to expect on test day takes away a lot of the stress. Here is a rundown so you can walk in feeling ready.
What to Bring
Driver's license, state ID, or passport. Make sure it is not expired and the name matches your registration.
Your ETS registration confirmation email or printout with your registration number.
Testing rooms can be cold, especially during North Dakota winters. A light jacket 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 registration list.
- 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
Do not spend too long on any single question. If you are stuck, mark it and move on. You can come back to it if there is 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 are not sure about the right one.
Answer every question
There is no penalty for guessing on the ParaPro. If time is running out, fill in your best guess for every remaining question.
About North Dakota Testing Locations
In North Dakota, the ParaPro is administered by some school districts, Regional Education Associations (REAs), and through at-home remote proctoring via ETS. If you live in a rural area far from Fargo, Bismarck, or Grand Forks, the at-home option can save you a long drive. Check the ETS website for the latest testing dates and locations near you.
The North Dakota Certification and Hiring Process: Step by Step
The process in North Dakota is sequential and state-centric. You need to follow the steps in order. Here is what it looks like from start to finish.
Meet an Academic Requirement
For Para I: Pass the ParaPro test with a score of 464, OR have your official transcripts ready showing 48 college credits or a degree. For Para II: Meet the Para I requirement AND have your transcripts for the additional 15 education-related credits plus documentation of your apprenticeship.
Secure a Conditional Job Offer
While you can apply for your certificate on your own, it is very common to do it at the same time as the hiring process. A conditional job offer from a North Dakota school district is often what starts the certification process rolling.
Initiate the Criminal History Record Check
You must be fingerprinted for a state and national background check. The results are sent directly to the ESPB.
Complete the Online Application
Go to the ESPB website. Create an account and fill out the official application for the Paraprofessional Certificate. Select the level for which you qualify (Para I or Para II).
Submit All Documentation
Upload a copy of your high school diploma or GED, your official college transcripts (if applicable), your official ParaPro score report (if applicable), and pay the application fee (currently around $100).
ESPB Review and Certificate Issuance
The ESPB will review your complete application file. They will verify that your background check is cleared and that you have met all academic requirements. Once approved, your two-year certificate will be issued.
Finalize Employment
With your Paraprofessional certificate in hand, your employment with the school district is finalized. You are now a state-certified educational professional in North Dakota.
After the Test: Scores and Next Steps in North Dakota
Once you take the ParaPro Assessment, here is what happens next depending on your result.
If You Passed (464 or Higher)
- Step 1: Get Your Official Score Report. ETS will provide you with an official score report. Keep this safe because you will need to upload it as part of your ESPB certification application.
- Step 2: Start the ESPB Application. If you have not already, go to the ESPB website and begin the certification application process. Upload your score report along with your other documents.
- Step 3: Complete Your Background Check. If the fingerprinting process is not already underway, get it done now so it does not delay your certificate.
- Step 4: Receive Your Certificate and Start Working. Once the ESPB issues your two-year Paraprofessional I certificate, you can finalize your employment with the district.
If You Need to Retake
- Step 1: Review Your Score Report. Look at which sections you scored lowest on. This tells you where to focus your study time.
- Step 2: Check the ETS Retake Policy. ETS has a waiting period (typically 28 days) before you can retake the ParaPro. Use this time wisely.
- Step 3: Create a Focused Study Plan. Zero in on the areas where you struggled. Take advantage of free resources and practice tests.
- Step 4: Register and Retake. Once the waiting period is over, register through ETS for your next attempt.
Paraprofessional Salary and Employment in North Dakota
Salaries for paraprofessionals in North Dakota are set by local school districts and reflect the state's cost of living. The single most important factor in your pay is your certificate level. Districts have separate salary schedules for Para I and Para II. Moving from Para I to Para II by earning the advanced credentials results in a significant, immediate pay increase.
Typical Starting Range
Experienced / Higher Districts
Salary by Region
Eastern North Dakota (Fargo, Grand Forks): This is the most populated and fastest-growing area of the state. Districts in this region generally offer the highest salaries.
Western North Dakota (Bismarck, Minot, Williston): The oil industry in this region has a significant impact on the cost of living and wages. Districts here often have to offer very competitive pay to attract staff.
Rural and Reservation Schools: Salaries are typically lower, but the need for dedicated and qualified paraprofessionals, especially those from the local community, is immense.
Typical Benefits Package
High-Demand Roles in North Dakota
Special Education Paraprofessionals: This is, by a wide margin, the most critical area of need across the entire state. Nearly every district has openings.
Rural School Paraprofessionals: Small, remote districts often have the most difficulty filling positions and are in constant need of dedicated staff.
Native American Education Paraprofessionals: Aides who can support the state's Native American students and curriculum are highly valued, particularly in districts on or near North Dakota's four reservations.
The Pathway to a Teaching Career in North Dakota
The paraprofessional certification system is designed to be a pipeline for future teachers. North Dakota has a specific "Para to Teacher" program that provides scholarships and support for current paraprofessionals to complete a bachelor's degree and earn a teaching license.
If you already have a bachelor's degree, you can often be hired as a teacher on a provisional license while you complete a teacher preparation program. Your experience as a paraprofessional makes you an ideal candidate for this route.
North Dakota ParaPro Test Centers
Tests administered by school districts and approved testing centers.
Important Information
- Some school districts administer the ParaPro directly for their prospective hires
- Regional Education Associations (REAs) serve as testing sites across the state
- At-home remote proctoring through ETS is available for candidates in rural areas
Frequently Asked Questions - North Dakota Paraprofessionals
What is the difference between a Para I and a Para II?
A Para I has met the basic ESSA requirements (48 credits, a degree, or a passing ParaPro score). A Para II has met the Para I requirements plus completed an additional 15 college credits in education-related coursework, a state-approved apprenticeship, and a professional portfolio. The Para II certificate qualifies you for higher-level positions and a higher salary.
What is the ESPB?
The Education Standards and Practices Board is the state agency responsible for issuing all educator licenses and certificates in North Dakota. They set the standards for teachers, administrators, and paraprofessionals and enforce the code of professional ethics.
How do I renew my Paraprofessional Certificate?
The certificate is valid for two years. To renew it, you must complete a specific number of professional development hours and submit a renewal application and fee to the ESPB before it expires.
Do I need a job offer to get my Paraprofessional certificate?
No. Unlike some states, you can apply for your certificate on your own once you meet the requirements. This can make you a more attractive candidate, since you can tell a district you are fully certified and ready to hire.
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. In North Dakota, ETS typically requires a 28-day waiting period before you can retake the ParaPro Assessment.
