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Pennsylvania (PA)

How to become a paraprofessional in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania sets statewide floors but leaves specific skills assessments to districts.

Average annual pay
$28,900
$15.45 / hr
vs. National
-15.7%
below average
Exam path
District
See below

Requirements

Pennsylvania recognizes the following routes to qualify as a paraprofessional under federal Title I-A requirements and state guidance.

  • Associate degree
  • 75 college credits
  • District-approved skills assessment

Pay in Pennsylvania

Paraprofessionals in Pennsylvania earn an average of $28,900 per year, or about $15.45 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 Pennsylvania compares to the rest of the country.

Next steps

  1. 1. Confirm your route: exam, associate degree, or college credits.
  2. 2. Complete a background check through your target district.
  3. 3. Apply for open paraprofessional roles in Pennsylvania.
  4. 4. Join the Registry so districts can find you.