Content
{{CurrentPage.Topics.DisplayName}} {{CurrentPage.Subtopic_x0020_Level_x0020_1}}

{{CurrentPage.Title}}

This page provides the licensure requirements to obtain a paraprofessional educator license or a short-term paraprofessional approval in Illinois.​​

 Endorsement Requirements

Requirements

  • At least 19 years of age to serve students in prekindergarten through grade 12.
  • Beginning January 1, 2023, you may qualify for the ELS-Paraprofessional license by meeting the requirements outlined below at age 18 but only may serve in prekindergarten through grade 8.
  • One of the following required:
    • Associate’s degree or higher
    • 60 semester hours of coursework
    • High School Diploma or GED and a score of 460 or higher on the ETS Parapro
    • High School Diploma or GED and the following scores on the ACT Workkeys​:
      • Applied Mathematics/Applied Math (with a score of 4)
      • Reading for information/Workplace Documents (with a score of 4)

Years Valid

5

Limitations​

Must work under the direct supervision of a licensed teacher

Renewable?

May be renewed with payment of registration fees

Notes: 

  • ​If you hold a Paraprofessional License and have a Bachelor’s Degree on file, you are qualified to be a substitute teacher.
  • Coursework must be at the 100-level or higher from a regionally accredited college or university.​​​​

 Short-Term Approval Requirements

Approval Type
Requirements

Short-Term Approval for Paraprofessionals

​Valid: 3 fiscal years

Renewable: No

*Short-Term Paraprofessional Approvals are available for application until June 30, 2025, and may not be renewed.

​​
  • High school diploma (or equivalent), or higher​
  • At least 19 years of age to serve students in prekindergarten through grade 12.
  • While working on the approval, educator must be fulfilling requirements for the full license.​​

* * * This page has been archived. The content on this page may no longer be in effect. * * *

Contact Information