ParaPro vs Praxis Core
The ParaPro is for paraprofessionals (teacher aides) who support teachers in classrooms. Praxis Core is for aspiring teachers seeking admission to teacher preparation programs. ParaPro is easier and cheaper; Praxis Core leads to full teacher certification.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | ParaPro | Praxis Core |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | ParaPro Assessment | Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators |
| Exam Cost | $55 | $270 (3 tests at $90 each) |
| Passing Score | Varies by state (455-467) | Varies by state (150-162) |
| Questions | 90 multiple-choice | 152 across 3 tests |
| Time Limit | 2 hrs 30 min | 4 hrs 30 min combined |
| Study Time | 15-30 hours | 40-80 hours |
| Difficulty | Easy-Moderate | Moderate |
| Prerequisites | High school diploma | None - for teacher prep admission |
| Exam Body | ETS | ETS |
Key Differences
- 1ParaPro: for paraprofessionals/aides; Praxis Core: for aspiring teachers
- 2ParaPro: $55 one exam; Praxis Core: $270 three exams
- 3ParaPro: 8th grade level content; Praxis Core: high school/early college level
- 4ParaPro: immediate employment; Praxis Core: leads to teacher certification
- 5ParaPro: 90 questions, 2.5 hrs; Praxis Core: 152 questions, 4.5 hrs
- 6ParaPro pass rate ~89%; Praxis Core pass rate varies
- 7ParaPro is one-time; Praxis Core starts multi-year certification journey
What Each Exam Allows You To Do
ParaPro
- Work as a paraprofessional/teacher aide
- Meet NCLB 'highly qualified' requirements
- Assist teachers in classrooms
- Alternative to 2 years of college for para roles
Praxis Core
- Qualify for teacher preparation programs
- Meet state requirements for teacher candidates
- Demonstrate academic readiness for teaching
- First step toward teacher certification
Who Should Take Each Exam?
Take the ParaPro if you...
- →Those wanting to work as teacher aides
- →Paraprofessionals without 2 years of college
- →Career changers testing education field
- →Those exploring teaching career
Take the Praxis Core if you...
- →Aspiring teachers entering prep programs
- →College students pursuing education degrees
- →Career changers becoming certified teachers
- →Those on the path to full teacher certification
Which Should You Take First?
Take the ParaPro if you want to work as a paraprofessional immediately without pursuing full teacher certification. Take Praxis Core if you're committed to becoming a certified teacher. Many paraprofessionals use their experience as a stepping stone, later taking Praxis Core to become teachers.
Frequently Asked Questions
QCan I become a teacher with just the ParaPro?
No. The ParaPro qualifies you to work as a paraprofessional (teacher aide), not as a lead teacher. To become a certified teacher, you need to complete a teacher prep program, pass Praxis Core (or equivalent), and pass subject-specific Praxis exams.
QIs the ParaPro easier than Praxis Core?
Yes, significantly. ParaPro tests approximately 8th grade level content and has a ~89% pass rate. Praxis Core tests high school/early college level content with more questions and separate subject tests. ParaPro costs $55; Praxis Core costs $270.
QCan I skip the ParaPro if I take Praxis Core?
For para positions, you typically need either: (1) 2 years of college, (2) an associate's degree, OR (3) ParaPro Assessment. If you pass Praxis Core, you likely meet the '2 years of college' requirement and wouldn't need ParaPro separately.
QIs ParaPro a good stepping stone to teaching?
Yes! Many paraprofessionals use their classroom experience as a pathway to teaching. Working as a para lets you experience education without the full commitment. Many states offer Para-to-Teacher programs that help paras earn teaching credentials.
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