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New Jersey (NJ)
How to become a paraprofessional in New Jersey
New Jersey pays among the highest paraprofessional wages in the country; ParaPro 456 is the state cut score.
Average annual pay
$35,600
$19.05 / hr
vs. National
+3.9%
above average
Exam path
ParaPro
Passing score 456
Requirements
New Jersey recognizes the following routes to qualify as a paraprofessional under federal Title I-A requirements and state guidance.
- Associate degree
- 60 college credits
For paraprofessionals choosing the exam route, New Jersey’s cut score on the ParaPro Assessment is 456.
Pay in New Jersey
Paraprofessionals in New Jersey earn an average of $35,600 per year, or about $19.05 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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey.
- 4. Join the Registry so districts can find you.