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Education & Care

How to become a Teacher Assistant

From no experience: every step, how long it takes, and the credential it earns.

Time to get there
0–12 months
Typical pay
$30k–$40k
Starting from
No experience

Pay is an estimate of typical US entry-level pay for this role and varies by state, employer and shift. The timeline assumes you are starting from no experience and includes any licence or programme legally required, not just course length.

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The route

  1. Meet the education requirement

    Title I schools want an associate degree or a passing ParaPro score.

    Course that covers thisTeaching Assistant with Special Education & Phonics CourseUdemy · around $24.99
  2. Pass the ParaPro if required

    A short assessment in reading, writing and maths.

    ParaPro Assessment

  3. Clear background and fingerprinting

    Standard for anyone in a school building.

  4. Get classroom hours

    Many districts will help paraprofessionals move toward full licensure.

  5. Destination

    Teacher Assistant

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