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Iowa (IA)
How to become a paraprofessional in Iowa
Iowa offers a state Paraeducator Certificate issued by the Board of Educational Examiners.
Average annual pay
$26,500
$14.20 / hr
vs. National
-22.7%
below average
Exam path
District
See below
Requirements
Iowa recognizes the following routes to qualify as a paraprofessional under federal Title I-A requirements and state guidance.
- Associate degree
- Iowa Paraeducator Certificate
Pay in Iowa
Paraprofessionals in Iowa earn an average of $26,500 per year, or about $14.20 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 Iowa 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 Iowa.
- 4. Join the Registry so districts can find you.