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Illinois (IL)
How to become a paraprofessional in Illinois
Illinois requires the Educator License with Stipulations for paraprofessional work; ParaPro with 460 satisfies the skills component.
Average annual pay
$32,500
$17.40 / hr
vs. National
-5.2%
below average
Exam path
ParaPro
Passing score 460
Requirements
Illinois recognizes the following routes to qualify as a paraprofessional under federal Title I-A requirements and state guidance.
- Associate degree
- 60 college credits
- Illinois Educator License with Stipulations (Paraprofessional)
For paraprofessionals choosing the exam route, Illinois’s cut score on the ParaPro Assessment is 460.
Pay in Illinois
Paraprofessionals in Illinois earn an average of $32,500 per year, or about $17.40 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 Illinois 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 Illinois.
- 4. Join the Registry so districts can find you.