Iowa Paraprofessional Quick Facts

Required Score

Varies by district (Common benchmark: 455 on the retired ParaPro scale)

Exam and minimum vary by state or district. Verify the current requirement.

Test Duration

145 min total (85 + 60)

ParaPathways: Reading & Writing 85 min, Mathematics 60 min, timed separately

Test Sections

2

Reading & Writing and Mathematics, scored separately

Test Fee

$59 / $75

ParaPathways: $59 at a test center, $75 at home

School Districts

327

Regular school districts (NCES, 2021-22)

Background Check

Required

Fingerprint-based DCI and FBI checks through BOEE (for certificate applicants); certificate applicants complete an approved paraeducator preparation program (at least 90 clock hours) and mandatory reporter training; Paraeducator Generalist Certificate (voluntary, 5-year validity); IPERS retirement for permanent full- and part-time employees

Governing Body

Iowa Department of Education (Board of Educational Examiners) - issues the voluntary Paraeducator Generalist Certificate; hiring districts set requirements

Alternative Qualifications

  • Associate's Degree or higher from accredited institution
  • Two years of study at an institution of higher education (ask the hiring district how many credits it counts as two years)

Annual Pay (Middle 50%)

$28,060 – $35,530 Top 10% earn $37,520+

Teaching assistants, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025

Overview of Paraprofessional Qualifications in Iowa

To comply with the federal Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), Iowa 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.

Iowa's Voluntary Paraeducator Certificate

Iowa offers a Paraeducator Generalist Certificate, issued by the Board of Educational Examiners (BOEE), the same body that licenses teachers. State law makes the certificate voluntary, and the Department of Education describes it as optional in most settings, but some districts and programs require or prefer it. To earn it you complete an approved paraeducator preparation program, verify high school completion, complete mandatory reporter training, and pass a fingerprint background check.

Requirements for Paraprofessionals in Iowa

In Iowa, two separate things can apply. Districts check that paraeducators in Title I programs meet the federal qualification (a degree, two years of college, or a formal assessment). Separately, you can earn the state's voluntary paraeducator certificate.

Federal Title I Qualification: Meet One of Three Pathways

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
  • Give the hiring district the proof it asks for

Option 2: College Credits

Complete two years of study at an institution of higher education. Ask the district you are applying to how many credits it counts as two years.

  • Ask the hiring district what proof of credits it accepts

Option 3: Formal Academic Assessment

Pass a formal state or local academic assessment of reading, writing, and mathematics. Iowa names no statewide test; ask the district whether it accepts ParaPathways, the ETS test that replaced the ParaPro.

  • The passing score is set by the local school district, not the state. This page lists no ParaPathways passing scores for Iowa; confirm the ParaPathways requirement with the state or your district. ETS recommends 332 on Reading and Writing (5758) and 334 on Mathematics (5759). An already-earned score of 455 on the retired ParaPro scale, a common benchmark, still counts where the district accepts it.
  • Always verify the specific passing score with the district you're applying to

For the Certificate, Step 1: Complete an Approved Paraeducator Preparation Program

To earn the certificate you complete an approved paraeducator preparation program of at least 90 clock hours. Under the state rule it covers:

  • Behavior management
  • Exceptional child and at-risk child behavior
  • Collaboration skills
  • Interpersonal relations skills
  • Child and youth development
  • Technology
  • Ethical responsibilities and behavior

Approved programs are offered by all nine of Iowa's Area Education Agencies (AEAs), some community colleges, and some universities. The Department of Education lists the approved programs.

For the Certificate, Step 2: Complete the BOEE Application and Background Check

BOEE Online Application: Create an account and complete the official application for the Paraeducator Generalist Certificate through the BOEE website.
Fingerprint-Based Background Check: Your fingerprints are sent to the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) and the FBI. The BOEE reviews the results to determine your eligibility.
Fees: A $40 certificate fee and a $35 background check fee, both paid in the online application, plus a separate fingerprinting fee paid to Fieldprint. Fees are non-refundable.
Citizenship or Work Authorization: Since July 1, 2026, licensure applications include verification of citizenship or work authorization.

Do I Need a Paraeducator Certificate in Iowa?

The certificate is optional in most settings. Ask the hiring district whether it requires one. Some early childhood programs accept the generalist certificate plus the early childhood area of concentration as one way to qualify.

Iowa ParaPathways Assessment Details

ParaPathways, the ETS exam that replaced the ParaPro, is the ETS option for the testing pathway in Iowa. It is 87 questions across two separately timed and scored subtests (145 minutes in total): Reading & Writing (5758), 51 questions in 85 minutes, and Mathematics (5759), 36 questions in 60 minutes. Here's what each part covers and how it connects to real classroom work in Iowa.

Varies by District (e.g., 455 on the retired ParaPro scale, if already earned)
Iowa Required Score

Reading: Reading & Writing Subtest (5758), about 30 of 51 Questions

Skills Tested: Comprehending and analyzing texts, identifying main ideas and supporting details, defining vocabulary from context, and making logical inferences.

Iowa Classroom Application: A paraeducator in a Cedar Rapids school might use these skills to help students read a text about Iowa's agricultural history, guiding them to understand the impact of farming on the state's development.

Writing: Reading & Writing Subtest (5758), about 21 of 51 Questions

Skills Tested: Knowledge of grammar, punctuation, spelling, and sentence structure.

Iowa Classroom Application: An aide in a Des Moines high school could use this expertise to help a student proofread an essay for a government class, focusing on clear organization and proper grammar.

Mathematics Subtest (5759): 36 Questions

Skills Tested: Operations with fractions, decimals, and percentages; basic algebra; geometry; and data interpretation. About 18 questions cover numbers and operations and about 18 cover geometry, measurement and data. Some ask you to type in a number instead of choosing one, and an on-screen four-function calculator is provided.

Iowa Classroom Application: A paraeducator in an Ames elementary school might help students with a math project that involves calculating distances for a hypothetical RAGBRAI route or graphing local crop production data.

After the Test: Scores and Next Steps in Iowa

Passing the test is just one piece of the puzzle. Here's the typical sequence in Iowa.

If You Passed

  1. Step 1: Complete an Approved Preparation Program. If you are seeking the certificate, complete an approved paraeducator preparation program through an AEA, community college, or university.
  2. Step 2: Apply for Jobs. Search for open paraeducator positions on district websites or on TeachIowa, the platform for posting Iowa education jobs (see educate.iowa.gov/education-jobs).
  3. Step 3: Apply for Your Certificate (optional). After you finish an approved preparation program and mandatory reporter training, apply online through the Department of Education educator licensure system. This is when you complete the fingerprint check and pay the fees. You do not need a job offer.
  4. Step 4: BOEE Review and Certificate Issuance. The BOEE will review your complete file. Once approved, your five-year certificate will be issued and visible online.

If You Need to Retake

  1. Step 1: Check the Retake Rule. ETS lets you retake ParaPathways once as soon as you like. After that, you wait 21 days after your most recent attempt, and then you get two more attempts. Your testing center may have additional scheduling constraints.
  2. Step 2: Focus Your Study. Reading & Writing and Mathematics are scored separately, so see which subtest fell short. You can register for just that one ($37.50 at home, $29.50 at a test center), but ask your district whether the subtest you already passed still counts. Use the time before your next attempt to work on the areas that gave you the most trouble.
  3. Step 3: Re-register. Register again through ETS when you are ready, keeping the 21-day wait in mind after your first retake.

Preparing for Your Iowa Paraeducator 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

2-3 Weeks

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.

4-6 Weeks

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.

8+ Weeks

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 practice test: When you register, ETS gives you a free interactive practice test for each subtest you sign up for. ETS also publishes the official ParaPathways Study Companion, with a content overview and sample questions. 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 resources: The State Library of Iowa provides Mometrix eLibrary, a test-preparation resource, through Iowa public libraries. Ask your library how to access it, and check that what you use covers ParaPathways.
  • Online practice tests: Several test-prep sites offer free practice questions in reading, writing, and math. Make sure they cover ParaPathways and its two subtests, not only the retired ParaPro.

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:

  • Paraprofessional test-prep books: Available on Amazon or at your local bookstore. Make sure they cover ParaPathways, not only the retired ParaPro.
  • Online prep courses: 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.

Iowa-Specific Tip

Ask the district you want to work for whether it requires the paraeducator certificate and which assessment it accepts. If you want the certificate, ask an Area Education Agency (AEA) which approved preparation program it offers; Iowa has nine AEAs. Getting in touch early lets you coordinate your test date and training schedule so you can move through the process smoothly.

Test Day: What to Expect in Iowa

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

Identification ETS Accepts

ETS lists the identification it accepts in your confirmation email and test-day instructions. Check yours against that list before test day.

Test Confirmation

Bring the registration confirmation or email from ETS or your testing center.

Layered Clothing

Testing rooms can be cold. A light jacket or sweater lets you adjust without distraction.

What NOT to Bring

Cell phones
Smartwatches
Calculators
Notes or books
Food or drinks

Check-In Procedure

  1. 1 Follow the ETS check-in instructions. ETS states how early to arrive and what identification to present in your confirmation email and the test-day instructions for the delivery option you chose. Read them before you leave.
  2. 2 Store personal items. You'll be asked to put your phone, bag, and other belongings in a designated area.
  3. 3 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

ETS counts only the questions you answer correctly, so never leave a blank. If time is running out, fill in your best guess for every remaining question.

About Iowa Testing Locations

Use the ETS test-center locator to find a site that offers ParaPathways. You can also take the ETS paraprofessional assessment at home through ETS's remotely proctored option, which is especially helpful if you're in a rural part of the state.

How to Register for an Assessment in Iowa

You register for ParaPathways through ETS. Here's how to get started.

1

Check the ETS Test-Center Locator

ETS decides where ParaPathways is offered; register and find sites on the ETS website.

2

At-Home Testing

The remotely proctored at-home version of the ETS paraprofessional assessment is a valid option. You can register for it directly on the ETS website. This is a great choice if you live far from a testing center. Confirm current test sites and dates with ETS before you plan around any of them.

Pathway to Teaching

Iowa runs a pilot Educational Aide-to-Teacher Registered Apprenticeship in partnering districts, which lets you work while earning credit toward a bachelor's degree and teaching license.

If you already have a bachelor's degree in a non-education field, you can enroll in a Teacher Intern Program, which is an alternative route to licensure. Your classroom experience as a paraeducator makes you an ideal candidate.

Paraeducator Salary and Employment in Iowa

Pay for paraeducators in Iowa varies by district; check the salary schedule the district posts. The figures below are statewide numbers.

Middle 50% of Earners

$28,060 - $35,530
BLS, May 2025, all employers

Top 10% Earn

$37,520+
BLS, May 2025, all employers

Benefits Package

IPERS Retirement: Permanent full- and part-time paraeducators are automatically members of the Iowa Public Employees' Retirement System (IPERS), a defined-benefit pension plan.
Health insurance through district plans
Paid time off and holidays
Professional development opportunities

High-Demand Roles

Special Education Paraeducators: This is the most in-demand role across the entire state. There is a constant need for aides who can work with students with a wide range of disabilities.

Early Childhood Paraeducators: Aides with experience in Pre-K and Kindergarten settings are highly valued throughout Iowa's school districts.

Iowa Test Centers

If you take the ETS ParaPathways test, ETS lists community-based test centers by state and also offers at-home testing. Some school districts and agencies are test centers; contact the center directly to book.

Practical notes

  • • Use TeachIowa (see educate.iowa.gov/education-jobs) to search for paraeducator jobs across the state
  • • Iowa's nine AEAs run approved paraeducator preparation programs, which you need only if you want the voluntary certificate
  • • The BOEE certificate is valid for five years; renewal requires 3 renewal credits and mandatory reporter training

Frequently Asked Questions - Iowa Paraprofessionals

What is the BOEE?

The Iowa Board of Educational Examiners is the state agency responsible for issuing all educator licenses and certificates in Iowa. They set the standards for teachers, administrators, and paraeducators and enforce the code of professional ethics.

What is an AEA?

An Area Education Agency is a regional service agency in Iowa. There are nine AEAs, and they provide a wide range of support to school districts, including special education services and professional development, and many run approved paraeducator preparation programs.

How do I renew my Paraeducator Certificate?

The certificate is valid for five years. To renew it, you must complete 3 renewal credits and mandatory reporter training for child abuse, and submit a renewal application and fee to the BOEE.

Can I get a certificate before I have a job offer?

Yes. You can complete an approved preparation program and mandatory reporter training and apply for your certificate with the BOEE before you have a job offer, though most candidates do it at the same time as the hiring process.

How long does it take to get certified?

The timeline varies by state and district and includes background check clearance. Ask your district or state education agency for the current steps.

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?

ETS lets you retake ParaPathways once as soon as you like; if you need more attempts after that, you wait 21 days after your most recent one. You can register for just one subtest ($37.50 at home, $29.50 at a test center), but ask your district whether a subtest you already passed still counts. Use the time to study the subtest you missed.