Annual assessment is a yearly evaluation required by some states to verify homeschool student progress, typically through standardized testing, portfolio review, or evaluator assessment.
What is Annual Assessment?
Annual assessment refers to the periodic evaluation certain states require to verify that homeschooled students are making adequate academic progress. Methods vary—standardized testing, portfolio review by a certified teacher, or narrative evaluation by a qualified educator. The purpose isn't comparing students to arbitrary grade-level standards but demonstrating growth and reasonable progress commensurate with the child's age and abilities. About half of states have some form of assessment requirement, ranging from annual evaluation to periodic testing every few years.
Key Takeaways
- Nine states require annual assessment for all homeschooled students
- Assessment methods include standardized tests, portfolio review, and evaluator narratives
- Focus is on demonstrating progress and growth, not meeting specific benchmarks
- Parents typically choose their preferred assessment method where options exist
- Eleven states have no assessment requirements whatsoever
Assessment Options
Standardized Testing Options
Common homeschool-friendly tests include the California Achievement Test (CAT), Iowa Tests of Basic Skills, Stanford Achievement Test, and TerraNova. The Stanford is untimed, making it popular for students who need extra time. The Iowa is highly regarded for measuring thinking skills. The CAT offers shorter testing sessions. Many families use the same test year after year to track progress consistently. Tests cost $25-60 and can often be administered at home by parents.
Portfolio Assessment
A portfolio collects work samples demonstrating learning throughout the year—writing samples, math tests, project photos, reading logs, and activity records. A certified teacher reviews the portfolio and writes an evaluation statement. This approach showcases learning that standardized tests miss: art projects, hands-on science, creative writing development. Portfolios work particularly well for students who test poorly or learn through non-traditional methods. Organize samples chronologically to show progress from beginning to end of year.
What If Results Show Concerns?
State responses to poor assessment results vary significantly. Many states have no minimum score requirements or intervention mechanisms—the assessment is informational rather than gatekeeping. Where requirements exist, minimum scores can be quite low (15th percentile in some states). Most often, concerning results simply signal areas needing attention in your teaching. Unless a student falls severely behind, intervention is rare. The assessment serves you as a parent more than it serves regulatory oversight.
The Bottom Line
Annual assessment requirements vary dramatically by state—from comprehensive annual testing to no requirements at all. Where assessment is required, you typically have options that fit your educational approach. Standardized tests work well for conventionally taught students; portfolios showcase progress for those learning differently. Either way, focus on demonstrating growth rather than hitting arbitrary benchmarks. Use results to inform your teaching rather than viewing them as judgment of your homeschool's worth.
