How to become a paraprofessional in Arkansas
Arkansas is transitioning from ParaPro to the new ParaPathways assessment — both are accepted through August 31, 2026.
Requirements
Arkansas recognizes the following routes to qualify as a paraprofessional under federal Title I-A requirements and state guidance.
- Associate degree
- ParaPathways pass
For paraprofessionals choosing the exam route, Arkansas’s cut score on the ParaPro Assessment is 456. The state also accepts the newer ParaPathways assessment as an alternative.
Pay in Arkansas
Paraprofessionals in Arkansas earn an average of $25,800 per year, or about $13.90 per hour. Special Education paraprofessionals typically earn 20–30% above this average, and districts in higher cost-of-living areas within the state pay more than rural districts.
See the full salary report for how Arkansas compares to the rest of the country.
Next steps
- 1. Confirm your route: exam, associate degree, or college credits.
- 2. Complete a background check through your target district.
- 3. Apply for open paraprofessional roles in Arkansas.
- 4. Join the Registry so districts can find you.