Get Qualified for Aide Assignments with the ParaPro Assessment

Get Qualified for Aide Assignments with the ParaPro Assessment

Get Qualified for Aide Assignments with the ParaPro Assessment

A step-by-step guide for HelloSubs paraprofessionals and classroom aides

To work as an instructional aide/paraprofessional at HelloSubs partner schools in New Jersey, federal law (Title I) requires one of three qualifications: 48+ college credits, an Associate's degree or higher, or a passing score on the ParaPro Assessment.

No credits or degree yet? No problem — the ParaPro is the fastest path. It's a single test you can take from home, most people prepare in a couple of weeks, and HelloSubs accepts it fully. This guide walks you through it.

What is the ParaPro?

  • A 2.5-hour, 90-question test from ETS covering reading, writing, and math — skills at roughly a high-school level, plus how you'd apply them helping in a classroom.
  • Scored on a scale of 420–480. You need 456 or higher [confirm HelloSubs accepted score].
  • Costs $55 (at-home or select test centers; some Prometric centers charge $85).
  • Offered 7 days a week at home, monitored by an online proctor.

Before you register

You'll need:

  • A computer with a webcam and microphone (for at-home testing) in a quiet, private room — or pick a test center if you'd rather test in person.
  • A valid government-issued photo ID.
  • $55 paid by card at registration.

Step-by-step

  1. Create an ETS account and register: https://www.ets.org/parapro.html
  2. Choose at-home testing (7 days/week) or a test center near you.
  3. Pick your date and pay the $55 fee. Registration includes sending scores to up to 3 recipients free.
  4. Prepare. ETS offers a free practice test and study companion on the ParaPro site. Most people brush up for 1–3 weeks. Focus on the math section — it's the one that trips people up most (no calculator allowed).
  5. Take the test. Unofficial reading and writing scores appear immediately; official scores post to your ETS account in 2–3 weeks.
  6. Download your official score report from your ETS account.
  7. Upload your score report to your HelloSubs onboarding requirements in the app. Once verified, you're cleared for aide assignments.

What if I don't pass?

You can retake the ParaPro after 21 days. Your HelloSubs recruiter can point you to prep resources — email us and we'll help you make a plan.

Already have college credits?

If you have 48+ semester-hour credits or an Associate's degree (or higher), you can skip the test entirely — just upload your transcripts or degree to the same requirement in the app.

Need help?

Email support@hellosubs.co. We're glad to help you pick the right path and get you into classrooms.