Let’s be real for a second. If you’re looking into the GACE Paraprofessional Assessment, you probably just want to get into the classroom and start helping kids. You’ve got the passion, but there’s this one pesky 90-question wall standing in your way. Honestly, a lot of people treat this like a "common sense" test and then get a rude awakening when they see the math section.
It isn't just a basic literacy check. It’s a specialized exam designed to prove you can actually assist with instruction, not just supervise a playground. In Georgia, this test is the "make or break" for anyone who doesn't have 60 college credits or an Associate's degree.
What is the GACE Paraprofessional Assessment Anyway?
Basically, it's a test of three core areas: Reading, Writing, and Mathematics. But here is the kicker—it also tests your ability to apply those skills in a classroom setting.
You aren't just solving for $x$; you're explaining how to help a second-grader understand why they're solving for $x$. The official test code is 349, and it’s administered by ETS (Educational Testing Service) for the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC).
It’s 2026, and while some GACE tests have moved to a "modular" or "testlet" format, the Paraprofessional Assessment has stayed as a standalone, single-sitting exam. You get 2.5 hours to finish 90 multiple-choice questions.
The Scoring Mystery: Why 250 is Your Magic Number
I see this question all the time: "What’s a passing score?"
For most GACE content exams, there’s an "induction" level and a "professional" level. Not here. The GACE Paraprofessional Assessment is considered entry-level, meaning there is only one standard.
You need a scaled score of 250 to pass. The scale runs from 100 to 300. If you hit 249, you've unfortunately missed the mark. There is no "partial pass" or "temporary license" if you're close. You just have to wait 30 days and try again.
How to Register Without Getting a Headache
Registering for the GACE Paraprofessional Assessment is different than registering for the big teacher certification exams.
- Option A: The Local Route. Many people take it at a local school district or a Regional Education Service Agency (RESA). The fee is usually around $38, though some places tack on a proctoring fee. The best part? You often don't even need a MyPSC account or prior approval to test this way.
- Option B: Prometric or At Home. If you want more flexibility, you can take it through a Prometric testing center or via remote proctoring at your house. This costs more—usually $68—but it’s way easier to schedule if your local school board is booked up.
Breaking Down the Content: It's Not Just ABCs
Most people breeze through the Reading and Writing but hit a wall with Math. Let’s look at what’s actually on the paper (or screen).
1. The Reading Section
You’ll be asked to identify the main idea of a passage or find supporting evidence. Simple, right? The "classroom application" part is where it gets tricky. You might see a question like: "A student is struggling to find the 'tone' of this paragraph. Which of the following prompts would best help them?" You have to think like a teacher.
2. The Writing Section
They aren't asking you to write an essay. It’s all multiple-choice. You’ll be spotting grammar errors, punctuation mistakes, and help clarify sentences. Again, expect questions about how to help a student edit their own work.
3. The Math Section
This is usually the "villain" of the test. It covers:
- Number sense and operations
- Basic algebra (yes, some $y = mx + b$ action)
- Geometry and measurement
- Data analysis
$$Area = \pi r^2$$
You might need to calculate the area of a classroom rug or figure out how many juice boxes to buy for 22 kids if they come in packs of 8. It’s practical, but you can't use a calculator. Yep, you read that right. No calculators allowed. It’s all mental math and scratch paper.
Study Strategies That Actually Work
Don't just buy a $50 book and hope for the best.
First, go to the official GACE website and download the Study Companion. It's free and lists every single objective. Honestly, if it's not in that PDF, it's not on the test.
Second, practice your long division. Since you can't use a calculator, "simple" mistakes in subtraction or division are what sink most people in the math section.
Third, use the "Process of Elimination." Since there’s no penalty for guessing, never leave a bubble blank. If you can knock out two obviously wrong answers, your odds of passing jump from 25% to 50%.
Common Misconceptions (The "Internet Myths")
"I have a degree, do I still need this?" Probably not. If you have 60+ semester hours of college credit with a "C" or better, the GaPSC usually exempts you. Check your transcripts first! You might be able to save your $38.
"Is it the same as the Praxis ParaPro?"
They are very similar, but Georgia specifically uses the GACE version. If you took the Praxis ParaPro in another state, you might be able to transfer the score, but you’ll need to check with the GaPSC specifically to see if it meets their 250-point equivalency.
"Can I retake it tomorrow if I fail?"
No. There is a 30-day waiting period before you can retest. This is strictly enforced. If you test early, your scores will be voided and you’ll lose your money.
👉 See also: Cost of Pure Silver Per Ounce: What Most People Get Wrong
Your Next Steps to Certification
If you’re serious about becoming a paraprofessional in Georgia, here is your "to-do" list:
- Check your credits. Dig up your old college transcripts. If you have 60 credits, skip the test and go straight to the Georgia Professional Standards Commission website to start your application.
- Find a testing site. Call your local school district’s HR department. They often host the test monthly. If they don't, head to the Prometric website.
- Brush up on the Math. Spend a week doing 5th-8th grade math problems without a calculator.
- Take the GACE Ethics Assessment. Most people forget this! Even if you pass the Paraprofessional test, you still need to complete the Georgia Educator Ethics Assessment (Test 360). It’s a series of modules about "do's and don'ts" in the classroom.
- Get Hired. In Georgia, you don't actually apply for your license yourself. Your employer (the school district) has to request it for you once you're hired.
Good luck. It’s a bit of a hurdle, but the look on a student's face when a concept finally "clicks" makes the math problems worth it.
Actionable Summary for Candidates
- Target Score: 250.
- Retake Rule: Wait 30 days.
- No Calculators: Practice manual arithmetic.
- Application: Your school district must initiate the license request.
- Bonus Requirement: Complete the GACE Ethics (360) module.