About the GACE^® Paraprofessional Assessment

What Is It?

The GACE^® Paraprofessional (Test Code 177) assessment measures the skills and knowledge in reading, writing, and math possessed by prospective and practicing paraprofessionals. It also measures their ability to apply those skills and knowledge when assisting in classroom instruction.

Who Takes It?

This assessment is taken by prospective and practicing paraprofessionals to demonstrate that they are knowledgeable in reading, writing, and math, and that they are capable of assisting in classroom instruction.

How Long Is It?

Test takers have 2½ hours to complete the assessment.

What Subjects Are Covered?

Subjects include reading, writing, and math.

What Are the Questions Like?

The test has 90 selected-response questions, approximately two-thirds of which focus on basic skills and knowledge. The remaining one-third focuses on applying skills in the classroom. All test questions are in English.

Where Is the Assessment Given?

The assessment is administered by appointment at Prometric test centers in participating school districts and Regional Education Service Agencies (RESAs). The assessment is also given at home via a remote proctor.

How Is the Assessment Given?

The Paraprofessional assessment is given in a computer-delivered format.

How Do I Become a Licensed Paraprofessional?

All Georgia Paraprofessionals must hold a valid state license issued by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC). Georgia educators who hold a valid professional certificate may serve as Paraprofessionals without holding a specific Paraprofessional license.

You must be employed as a Paraprofessional in a Georgia local unit of administration (LUA) in order to qualify for a Paraprofessional license, which is valid for five years. In addition to employment, you must meet one of the following qualifications:

• Hold an associate's degree or higher in any subject from a GaPSC-accepted accredited institution;
• Have completed 2 years (60 semester hours) of college coursework above the remedial level at a GaPSC-accepted accredited institution with a grade of "C" or better;
• Hold a minimum of a high school diploma or GED equivalent and have passed the GACE Paraprofessional assessment.

If you are interested in obtaining a Paraprofessional license, you must first seek employment with a Georgia school, which will require a criminal record check. Your certification application package will be submitted by your employer.