Oklahoma Paraprofessional Requirements
A complete guide to paraprofessional qualification in the Sooner State. Required assessments, qualifications, career pathways, and salary information.
Oklahoma Paraprofessional Quick Facts
Required Score
457 on the retired ParaPro (OSDE), or Level 3 on all three ACT WorkKeys assessments
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
509
Regular school districts (NCES, 2021-22)
Background Check
Required
Mandatory fingerprint-based Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) state check and FBI national check. The applicant pays for the records. Required for both employment and state certification.
Governing Body
The Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) issues paraprofessional credentials (OAC 210:20-9-102). A Tier 1 credential is required for general education paraprofessionals in Title I schools: a high school diploma or equivalent, OSBI and FBI criminal history records on file, and 48 credit hours, an associate degree or higher, or a passing test (OGET, an ACT WorkKeys National Career Readiness Certificate, or the ETS paraprofessional assessment). A Tier 2 credential, for special education paraprofessionals, adds the Oklahoma Special Education Paraprofessional Training, CPR and First Aid, and Universal Precautions/Bloodborne Pathogens training.
Alternative Qualifications
- Associate's Degree or higher from accredited institution
- 48 credit hours of college coursework
- ETS ParaPathways Assessment, the OGET, or an ACT WorkKeys National Career Readiness Certificate (OSDE also lists a ParaPro score of 457 through 8/31/2026)
- Special education paraprofessionals also need the Tier 2 credential (Oklahoma Special Education Paraprofessional Training, CPR and First Aid, and Universal Precautions/Bloodborne Pathogens training)
Annual Pay (Middle 50%)
Teaching assistants, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025
Overview of Paraprofessional Qualifications in Oklahoma
To comply with the federal Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), Oklahoma 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.
Oklahoma's Two State Credentials
Oklahoma has two state paraprofessional credentials, both issued by the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) Office of Certification (OAC 210:20-9-102). Tier 1 is required for general education paraprofessionals in Title I schools. Tier 2 is for special education paraprofessionals.
For Tier 1 you need a high school diploma or equivalent, your OSBI and FBI criminal history records on file, and one of these: 48 credit hours of college coursework, an associate degree or higher, or a passing test (the OGET, an ACT WorkKeys National Career Readiness Certificate, or the ETS paraprofessional assessment). Tier 2 adds the Oklahoma Special Education Paraprofessional Training, CPR and First Aid, and Universal Precautions/Bloodborne Pathogens training.
Oklahoma's public education system covers two major metro areas (Oklahoma City and Tulsa), a large network of suburban districts, and a huge rural expanse. The state is also home to 39 federally recognized Native American tribal nations, and its schools serve a large and diverse Native American student population.
Requirements for Paraprofessionals in Oklahoma
State education codes and federal ESSA guidelines establish clear standards for all instructional paraprofessionals working in Title I programs.
Tier 1: Title I Paraprofessional Credential
This is the baseline requirement for general education paraprofessionals in Title I schools. You must have a high school diploma or equivalent and your OSBI and FBI criminal history records on file, plus meet one of the following three pathways:
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
Option 2: College Credits
Complete at least 48 credit hours of college coursework.
- Official transcript required
- Ask the hiring district which courses it counts
- 48 credit hours of college coursework
Option 3: Assessment
Pass a formal state or locally approved assessment demonstrating knowledge in reading, writing, and mathematics.
- ETS ParaPathways Assessment: 332 on Reading and Writing (5758) and 334 on Mathematics (5759), the scores ETS lists for Oklahoma. OSDE also accepts the OGET, an ACT WorkKeys National Career Readiness Certificate (Level 3 on all three assessments), or a ParaPro score of 457 (through 8/31/2026)
- Available at home through ETS remote proctoring or at a test center. The retired ParaPro was also given at district testing sites and career technology centers; ETS decides where its current assessment is offered, and some districts and agencies are participating test centers that you register with directly, so check its test-center locator rather than assuming a site listed here carried over.
- 87 questions across two subtests: Reading & Writing (51) and Mathematics (36)
Tier 2: Special Education Paraprofessional Credential
If you work as a special education paraprofessional, you need the Tier 2 credential from the OSDE. It requires everything in Tier 1 plus the Oklahoma Special Education Paraprofessional Training (offered at Career Technology centers, as equivalent OSDE training, or as other state-approved training from a school district), CPR and First Aid training, and Universal Precautions/Bloodborne Pathogens training.
If no Tier 2 holder is available, a district may hire a Tier 1-qualified person provisionally. That person must finish the Tier 2 training within 120 calendar days.
Who Needs to Meet These Requirements in Oklahoma?
Tier 1 is required for general education paraprofessionals in Title I schools. Tier 2 is for special education paraprofessionals. If you are unsure which applies to a specific job, ask the hiring district.
Must Meet Requirements
- • General Education Paraprofessionals in Title I Schools: The Tier 1 credential is required
- • Special Education Paraprofessionals: Need the Tier 2 credential. A district may hire a Tier 1-qualified person provisionally if that person finishes the Tier 2 training within 120 calendar days
- • Early Childhood Paraprofessionals: Aides working in Pre-K and early childhood special education programs
- • Native American Education Aides: Paraprofessionals working in Title I programs within tribal jurisdictions
May Not Need Requirements
- • Non-Instructional Support Staff: Staff whose duties are purely supervisory or clerical
- • Lunchroom or Playground Monitors: Staff who do not provide academic instruction
- • Bus Aides: Staff whose role is limited to student transportation supervision
- • Personal Care Assistants: Aides whose duties are limited to physical or health needs (feeding, toileting) with no instructional role
Oklahoma ParaPathways Assessment Details (332 and 334)
ETS ParaPathways Assessment
- 87 questions across two subtests, 145 minutes total (85 + 60), timed separately
- Oklahoma passing scores: 332 on Reading and Writing (5758) and 334 on Mathematics (5759). OSDE lists a ParaPro score of 457 (through 8/31/2026), the OGET, or Level 3 on all three ACT WorkKeys assessments as other test routes.
- Questions test basic skills and knowledge, plus applying them in a classroom
- Available at home through ETS remote proctoring or at a test center on the ETS locator; some districts and agencies are participating test centers that you register with directly
ParaPathways Assessment Breakdown: An Oklahoma Context
The ParaPro was retired after August 31, 2026. Its replacement, ParaPathways (5757), has two separately timed, separately scored subtests: Reading & Writing (5758), 51 questions in 85 minutes, and Mathematics (5759), 36 questions in 60 minutes. Here is what to expect, with examples of how these skills apply in Oklahoma classrooms:
Reading (part of Reading & Writing 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.
Oklahoma Classroom Example: A paraprofessional in a Tulsa Public Schools classroom might use these skills to help a small group of students read a text about the Tulsa Race Massacre, guiding them to understand the historical context and key events involved.
Writing (part of Reading & Writing 5758: about 21 of 51 questions)
Skills Tested: Knowledge of grammar, punctuation, spelling, and sentence structure.
Oklahoma Classroom Example: An aide in an Edmond Public Schools high school could use this expertise to help a student proofread an essay about the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum, focusing on correct grammar and clear organization.
Mathematics (subtest 5759: 36 questions)
Skills Tested: Operations with fractions, decimals, and percentages; basic algebra; geometry; and data interpretation. The subtest splits about evenly between numbers and operations (about 18 questions) and geometry, measurement and data (about 18), and an on-screen four-function calculator is provided.
Oklahoma Classroom Example: A paraprofessional in a rural school in western Oklahoma might help students with a math project involving the area of a wheat field or interpreting a graph showing oil and gas production data for the state.
After the Test: Scores and Next Steps in Oklahoma
Once you complete the ETS paraprofessional assessment, here is what happens next in Oklahoma.
If You Passed (332 Reading and Writing, 334 Mathematics)
- Step 1: Receive Your Official Score Report. ETS will send your scores to you and to any districts you designated during registration. Official scores arrive roughly one to three weeks after the test; if you test at home, you can view unofficial scores on screen. Keep a copy for your records.
- Step 2: Apply for Positions. Submit your application to Oklahoma school districts along with your ParaPathways (or earlier ParaPro) score report as proof of your qualification.
- Step 3: Complete Background Checks. Once a district offers you a conditional position, you will complete the fingerprint-based OSBI and FBI background checks.
- Step 4: Apply for Your Credential. Apply to the OSDE Office of Certification for the Tier 1 credential, or the Tier 2 credential if you will work in special education.
If You Need to Retake
- Step 1: Review Your Score Report. ETS scores Reading & Writing and Mathematics separately, and each score report breaks your results down by content category. Identify which subtest, and which areas (reading, writing, or math), need the most attention.
- Step 2: Check the Retake Policy. 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 can take it two more times. Use the time to focus your study on weak areas.
- Step 3: Build a Focused Study Plan. Use free resources from Khan Academy or your local Oklahoma library system to strengthen the subjects where you scored lowest.
- Step 4: Re-register and Retake. Schedule your retake through ETS. You can register for just the subtest you need to retake, but ask your district whether a subtest you already passed still counts.
Preparing for Your Oklahoma ParaPathways Assessment
How long you need to study depends on your academic background. If you recently finished college coursework, a few weeks of review may be enough. If it has been a while since you worked with math or formal writing, give yourself more time.
Recommended Study Timelines
Quick Refresher
Best if you recently completed 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 are rusty on without feeling rushed.
In-Depth Review
If you have been out of school for a while or if 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 ParaPathways study materials: ETS publishes the official ParaPathways Study Companion, and when you register, ETS gives you a free interactive practice test for the subtest you sign up for.
- Khan Academy: Great for brushing up on math from basic arithmetic through algebra and geometry. Free and self-paced.
- Oklahoma public library databases: Your Oklahoma library card may give you access to LearningExpress Library, which has paraprofessional practice tests and skill-building courses (check that the practice tests cover ParaPathways). Check your local library website.
- Online practice tests: Several test-prep websites offer free practice questions in reading, writing, and math; make sure they cover ParaPathways.
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:
- Paraprofessional test-prep books ($20-40): Available on Amazon or at your local bookstore. Make sure they cover ParaPathways, not only the retired ParaPro.
- 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 preference.
Oklahoma-Specific Tip
Some Oklahoma career technology centers (CareerTech) offer test preparation workshops, and some administered the retired ParaPro directly. Contact your local CareerTech center to see if they offer prep sessions. For ParaPathways, ETS decides where the test is offered, so check its test-center locator; some districts and agencies are participating test centers that you register with directly. At-home testing through ETS can be especially convenient if you live in a rural area far from a test center.
Test Day: What to Expect in Oklahoma
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
ETS lists the identification it accepts in your confirmation email and test-day instructions. Check yours against that list before test day.
Bring your ETS registration confirmation email or appointment notice from the 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 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 Store personal items. You will be asked to put your phone, bag, and other belongings in a designated area.
- 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
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 unsure about the right one.
Do not 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 Oklahoma Testing Locations
In Oklahoma, you can take the ETS paraprofessional assessment at a test center or at home through ETS remote proctoring. ETS decides where its current assessment is offered, and some school districts and agencies are participating test centers that you register with directly, so check its test-center locator, and ask your target district's HR department which option works best for your location.
Paraprofessional Salary and Employment in Oklahoma
Paraprofessional salaries vary by district, experience level, and role specialization.
Middle 50% of Earners
Top 10% Earn
Pay by District
Pay varies by district; check the salary schedule the district posts.
Typical Benefits Package
High-Demand Roles in Oklahoma
Special Education Paraprofessionals: By far the most critical area of need across the entire state. Oklahoma has a separate Tier 2 credential for this role.
Early Childhood Paraprofessionals: Aides with experience in Pre-K and early childhood special education are highly sought after.
Native American Education Paraprofessionals: With 39 federally recognized tribal nations, Oklahoma has a significant need for aides who can support Native American students and work effectively in a culturally responsive manner, particularly in districts within tribal jurisdictions.
Pathway to a Teaching Career
A paraprofessional who meets the Tier 1 requirement with college credits is already well on the way to a bachelor's degree.
Oklahoma also has a provisional teaching certificate (up to three years) for paraprofessionals who have a bachelor's degree (GPA 2.5 or higher), a full school year as a paraprofessional in that certificate area, and passing scores on the OGET, OSAT and OPTE. Some districts help paraprofessionals pay for a teaching degree; ask the district.
Oklahoma 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
- • Check individual district HR pages for paraprofessional job postings
- • Some Oklahoma career technology centers administered the retired ParaPro; for ParaPathways, check the ETS test-center locator
How to Register for an Assessment in Oklahoma
The registration process typically begins through a school district's Human Resources department or the state education agency.
Step 1: Find Job Openings and Apply
Visit school district websites and apply for paraprofessional positions through their online portals.
Meet the Tier 1 education or test requirement first. Either have your official transcripts for 48+ college credits ready, or schedule and pass the ETS ParaPathways Assessment (332 on Reading and Writing, 334 on Mathematics).
Step 2: Receive Test Invitation
If you meet minimum qualifications, the HR department will send you testing information and schedule.
In Oklahoma, hiring is decentralized. Go directly to the "Careers" or "Human Resources" page on individual school district websites. Major districts like Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Edmond, Moore, and Norman post openings on their own portals.
Step 3: Prepare and Take the Test
Review study materials provided by the district and complete the assessment on the scheduled date.
After a successful interview and conditional job offer, complete the fingerprint-based OSBI and FBI background checks; the person applying for a credential pays for the records. Then apply to the OSDE Office of Certification for your Tier 1 or Tier 2 credential.
Pathway to Teaching
Oklahoma also has a provisional teaching certificate (up to three years) for paraprofessionals who have a bachelor's degree (GPA 2.5 or higher), a full school year as a paraprofessional in that certificate area, and passing scores on the OGET, OSAT and OPTE.
Some Oklahoma districts help paraprofessionals pay for a teaching degree; ask the district.
Frequently Asked Questions - Oklahoma Paraprofessionals
What is the difference between the Tier 1 and Tier 2 paraprofessional credentials?
Tier 1 is required for general education paraprofessionals in Title I schools: a high school diploma or equivalent, OSBI and FBI criminal history records on file, and 48 credit hours, an associate degree or higher, or a passing test. Tier 2 is for special education paraprofessionals and adds the Oklahoma Special Education Paraprofessional Training, CPR and First Aid, and Universal Precautions/Bloodborne Pathogens training.
What is the OSDE?
The Oklahoma State Department of Education is the state agency that oversees all public K-12 education. Its Office of Certification issues the Tier 1 and Tier 2 paraprofessional credentials, and it sets statewide educational standards.
How long is a paraprofessional credential valid, and how do I renew it?
Ask the OSDE Office of Certification or your district for the current validity and renewal rules.
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.
What is the OSBI?
The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation is the state's law enforcement agency that handles the state-level criminal background check for school employees. You will also need a separate FBI background check at the federal level. Both are fingerprint-based and are required before your employment can be finalized.
Ready to Start Your Oklahoma Paraprofessional Career?
Take practice tests and prepare for success on your assessment.