State Requirements
Paraprofessionals funded with state or federal special education dollars must meet one of the following requirements:
- At least two years of college credits (usually 60 credits if earned in Minnesota) through an accredited institute of higher education; or
- An associates degree or higher; or
- A passing score on an approved, formal assessment demonstrating the knowledge and ability to assist with instruction in reading/language arts, writing, mathematics, or readiness for each.
For the first two options, a specific course of college study is not required, though the individual must be able to demonstrate the ability to assist with basic skills instruction. In all cases, the individual must demonstrate proficiency in the English language.
For Option 3, SCRED offers access to ParaEducator, one of the state approved assessments. Passing scores in MN are: 65% for the Instructional Support test and 70% for the Knowledge and Application test.
ParaEducator Subscription
Price: $90.00 | Register
If your district is paying and you are a member district of SCRED, you may opt to have your district invoiced. If registering on your own, you must pay with a credit card.
ParaEducator is a product of The Master Teacher. SCRED, in partnership with our member districts and Resource Training & Solutions, facilitates licensing and proctored assessments.
Assessment prep/study support is available through ABE.
Testing Dates (2026-27)
Testing requires the use of a working, internet accessible laptop (no tablets or cell phones). The assessment is included with your ParaEducator subscription. Retakes are $20.00.
- Thursday, September 17, 2026 - 8:00 AM
- Thursday, September 24, 2026 - 8:00 AM
- Thursday, December 3, 2026 - 8:00 AM
- Thursday, December 10, 2026 - 8:00 AM
- Thursday, March 11, 2027 - 8:00 AM
- Thursday, March 18, 2027 - 8:00 AM
- Thursday, May 6, 2027 - 8:00 AM
- Thursday, May 13, 2027 - 8:00 AM
Register