Requirements for Paraprofessionals

  • UPDATE - August 22, 2022: Those who hold a high school diploma or equivalent now qualify for a DuPage County Short-Term Approval Paraprofessional License.

    Paraprofessionals must be at least 19 years of age and show proof of one (1) of the following requirements:

    • Associate's degree or higher
    • 60 semester hours of coursework

    To obtain a paraprofessional license (ELS/PARA) in the state of Illinois: 

    1. Visit www.isbe.net and at the top center of the page, click on ‘System Quick Links’ --> ELIS: Educator Licensure Information System -->  EDUCATOR ACCESS --> Login to your ELIS account --> CLICK HERE FOR FIRST TIME ACCESS TO THE ELIS SYSTEM (right side of the screen).

    2. Create an account and follow the prompts.

    3. Once logged in, click on “Apply for a Paraprofessional Endorsement.” Use a credit card to pay a $100 application fee plus a convenience fee. 
       
    4. The following items should then be mailed to the DuPage County Regional Office of Education Certification Department at 421 N County Farm Road, Wheaton, IL 60187, telephone number 630-407-5800.

      • An official college transcript showing completion of an associate's degree or 60 hours of college credit

      • Proof of high school graduation/high school equivalency


    If you mail your documents to the Illinois State Board of Education, the process may be delayed. 

    Registering your paraprofessional license:

    1. After the state reviews your credentials your license will change from “Pending Review” to “Issued” and you will need to register your license. ISBE will send you an automated email when they issue the license.

    2. Log into your ELIS account, click on Registration and follow the steps.  With a credit card, you will pay $5.00 per year plus a convenience fee for your registration.

    3. When the license is issued and registered, print your current credential page to give to your school district as evidence of your valid Paraprofessional license. 

    Renewal Requirements

    The only requirement for renewal of your paraprofessional license is to pay the $25 renewal fee every five years.  Professional development is not required for this license.