Standardized test requirements are state-mandated assessments that some states require homeschooled students to complete, typically using nationally-normed tests like the Iowa Assessments, Stanford 10, or CAT to demonstrate academic progress.
What is a Standardized Test Requirement?
A standardized test requirement is a state law mandating that homeschooled students take approved achievement tests at specific intervals to demonstrate academic progress. Unlike public school students who take state-specific assessments, homeschoolers typically take nationally-normed tests that compare performance to students across the country. Testing requirements vary dramatically by state - from annual testing with minimum score requirements to no testing required at all. Understanding your state's specific requirements is essential for homeschool compliance.
Key Takeaways
- Only about 9 states require all homeschoolers to be assessed; most have options or no requirements
- Common accepted tests include Iowa Assessments, Stanford 10, CAT, and TerraNova
- Testing frequency varies from annual to every three years depending on state
- Many states accept alternatives like portfolio review or professional evaluation
- Some states have minimum score requirements while others simply require testing
States with Testing Requirements
Only nine states require ALL homeschooled students to be assessed: Hawaii, Maine, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Vermont, and West Virginia. Additional states have testing requirements with alternative options, including Colorado, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and Virginia. About 30 states have no testing requirements at all, including Texas, Illinois, Michigan, New Jersey, and Arizona. Even in states with requirements, many allow bypasses through umbrella school enrollment, portfolio review, or religious exemption. Check your specific state's current laws, as regulations change.
Testing Frequency
Commonly Accepted Tests
Most states accept any nationally-normed, standardized achievement test. The Iowa Assessments are widely recognized and considered rigorous, though they require an administrator with a bachelor's degree. The Stanford 10 is untimed and provides detailed reports, making it popular for students who work slowly. The CAT (California Achievement Test) is often chosen because parents can administer it without special qualifications. The TerraNova offers similar parent-administration flexibility. Newer options like the Classic Learning Test (CLT) are gaining acceptance, with over 300 colleges now recognizing CLT scores for admissions.
Alternatives to Testing
Many states with testing requirements offer alternatives. Portfolio review involves a certified teacher evaluating a collection of student work - particularly helpful for young children and students with special needs. Professional evaluation has a qualified evaluator assess student progress through review and sometimes interview. Some states allow umbrella school enrollment, which may bypass direct testing requirements. Virginia and a few other states offer religious exemption from all testing and reporting requirements for families with sincere religious objections to school attendance. These alternatives recognize that standardized tests don't capture every child's learning effectively.
What Happens with Low Scores
Requirements vary significantly. Some states like North Carolina require testing but have no minimum score - you just need to complete it. Virginia requires a composite score at or above the 4th stanine (roughly 23rd percentile); falling below triggers a probation process and remediation plan. Pennsylvania requires testing but poor performance doesn't limit homeschool options. In most states, one low score isn't cause for alarm - the focus is on demonstrating ongoing educational engagement rather than achieving specific thresholds. That said, consistent low scores may warrant examining whether your current approach is working.
The Bottom Line
Standardized test requirements affect only a minority of homeschool families, and even within requiring states, most families have options. Before stressing about testing, verify what your state actually requires - you may find alternatives that better fit your family. If testing is mandatory, choose a test that matches your child's learning style (untimed for slow processors, parent-administered for comfort). Remember that these tests are compliance tools, not judgments of your homeschool's worth. Meet the requirement and move on.
