ParaPro Study Guide

How long is the ParaPro Assessment? Does it span more than one day?

The ParaPro Assessment is only 2.5 hours and consists of 90 selected-response questions.

How is the Exam given?

The exam is delivered via computer and is given at participating school districts.

The assessment is given by appointment only. If you are looking to take it, you can find more information here.

How much does it cost to take the assessment?

The price of the ParaPro Assessment is $55, due on the day you take the assessment.

Keep in mind that the fee is non-refundable, so be sure that you’re prepared before taking the exam.

What kind of questions will I be tested on?

You will find that a portion of the assessment (approximately 2/3), will focus on basic skills and knowledge, while another portion of the assessment (approximately 1/3), will focus on how you apply those skills while you’re assisting in a classroom setting.

By subject:

• Reading – 30 questions
  • Reading Skills and Knowledge.
  • Application of Reading Skills.

This section focuses on an examinees ability to understand and interpret a variety of different types of text. You will be responsible for answering questions containing charts, graphs, and tables. This section also focuses on classroom scenarios.

• Mathematics – 30 questions
  • Mathematics Skills and Knowledge
  • Application of mathematics skills and Knowledge to classroom instruction

The math section focuses on an examinees ability to apply mathematical concepts to real-life and abstract situations.

• Writing – 30 questions
  • Writing Skills and Knowledge
  • Application of Writing Skills and Knowledge to classroom instruction

The writing section of the exam focuses on the ability of an examinee to pick out errors in spelling, grammar, and punctuation; as well as sentence structure and parts of speech.

This section also focuses on the writing process within classroom scenarios, and how an examinee would help students write an essay.

Am I permitted to use a calculator during the mathematics section of the exam?

Unfortunately, no. You are not permitted to use a calculator. Don’t panic, though. The mathematics section of the ParaPro Assessment focuses more on basic knowledge of mathematical concepts rather than advanced.

If you’re still concerned, keep reading until the end to find out how you can prepare for – and ace – the mathematics section of the exam.

How is the assessment scored?

The passing score is different depending on where you live. You can find the passing score for your state on the Praxis website

Your score report will show how many points you earned – your “raw points.” To determine whether you passed or failed, take your raw points, and compare it to the maximum amount of points you could’ve earned.

Important: Although scores differ from state to state you should aim to score somewhere between 450 and 470.

Will I lose points on the assessment if I guess?

No. You will not lose points for guessing. In fact, guessing may mean the difference between a passing score or a failing one. The ParaPro Assessment is based on how many questions you answer correctly.

There is no harm in guessing if you don’t know an answer. The worst thing you can do on this exam is to leave a question unanswered.

When can I expect my results?

If your exam does not include any constructed-response questions, you will receive your results immediately after completing your exam. If for some reason there are constructed-response questions, you can expect to receive your results in the mail 2-3 weeks after completion of the exam.

Is this assessment required for every state?

The ParaPro Assessment is currently a requirement for 40 states and U.S. territories.

What do I need on the day of my exam?

On the day of your exam, make sure you have your photo identification with you. Its important to note that the name on your ID must match the name you registered for the exam with. If you don’t have your ID, or your name is printed differently, you may not be permitted inside the testing site.

Other than your identification, no other personal items are permitted inside the testing room. You should not assume that appropriate storage will be provided to you, so you should plan accordingly.

I have a disability. Will I be accommodated?

If you are a person with a disability, you must register through ETS disability, and have your accommodations approved before your exam is scheduled.

It’s important that you contact ETS disability as soon as possible since processing can take up to 6 weeks.

You can contact ETS disability by phone, mail, or e-mail.

Is the exam given in any other language other than English?

Unfortunately, the exam is only given in English. You may be eligible for an extended time if English is not your primary language.

How Can I Prepare for the ParaPro Assessment Test?

We believe that different learning styles require different tools for success. We have compiled a list of the best study guides, flashcards, and practice tests that we’ve found on the market. Some of these guides have review videos, for you visual learners out there. Others have practice tests, which have been proven to increase student scores by a whole letter grade (in some cases more than that)!