Seton Testing Services is a nationally recognized testing provider offering standardized achievement tests, aptitude tests, and diagnostic assessments for homeschool families, with parent-administered testing available for most options.
What is Seton Testing Services?
Seton Testing Services is one of the longest-running test distributors serving the homeschool community, founded in 1982 in Front Royal, Virginia. They specialize in providing standardized achievement tests, cognitive ability assessments, and diagnostic tools that homeschool families can administer at home. While they share the Seton name and location with Seton Home Study School, enrollment in the Catholic curriculum program is not required to use their testing services.
Key Takeaways
- Parents can administer most tests at home without a degree requirement
- Offers IOWA Form E (normed in 2024), Stanford 10, TerraNova, and CAT tests
- Tests are accepted in most states for homeschool compliance
- Results typically available within 2-4 weeks for paper tests, 2-5 days for online
- Serves over 50,000 students annually through their testing program
Available Tests
How It Works
Diagnostic vs. Standardized Tests
Seton offers two distinct types of assessments. Standardized achievement tests (IOWA, Stanford 10, TerraNova) measure your child's performance against national norms, showing how they compare to other students at their grade level. These satisfy state testing requirements and provide percentile rankings. Diagnostic tests (DORA for reading, ADAM for math, DOMA for algebra readiness) identify specific skill gaps and suggest appropriate grade-level placement. Use diagnostic tests when you're unsure where to start in a curriculum or suspect learning gaps; use standardized tests for annual assessment and compliance.
State Compliance
Seton's nationally normed tests are accepted in most states requiring annual standardized testing for homeschoolers. States like Virginia, Colorado, New Hampshire, New York, and North Carolina commonly accept Seton-administered tests for compliance. However, requirements vary significantly by state, so always verify acceptance with your specific state's homeschool organization or education department before ordering. The tests meet the same standards as those administered in schools since they're the same assessments used nationwide.
The Bottom Line
Seton Testing Services fills an important need for homeschool families who need standardized testing for state compliance or curriculum placement. The ability to administer most tests at home without special credentials makes the process convenient and less stressful than traveling to testing centers. With the IOWA Form E tests re-normed in 2024, Seton offers some of the most current assessments available for homeschoolers.
