The TerraNova is a nationally standardized achievement test for grades K-12 published by Data Recognition Corporation, measuring skills in reading, language arts, math, science, and social studies. Parents can administer TerraNova 2 at home without a bachelor's degree.
What is the TerraNova Test?
The TerraNova is a series of standardized achievement tests published by [Data Recognition Corporation (DRC)](https://www.datarecognitioncorp.com/). Originally developed by CTB/McGraw-Hill, the test measures K-12 student achievement in reading, language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. The current standard version (TerraNova, Third Edition) features 2017 norms from a national study. For homeschoolers, TerraNova's appeal lies in its accessibility: parents can administer TerraNova 2 to their own children without holding a bachelor's degree, making it one of the most accessible standardized testing options available.
Key Takeaways
- Covers grades K-12 across reading, math, language, science, and social studies
- TerraNova 2 can be parent-administered without a bachelor's degree
- Multiple-choice format taking 2-4 hours over 2-5 days
- Accepted in most states for homeschool compliance requirements
- More affordable than many other standardized tests ($35-43 per student)
Grade Levels and Subjects Covered
TerraNova provides comprehensive K-12 coverage. The test measures reading comprehension, language usage, mathematics (including computation, problem solving, geometry, and statistics), science (physical, life, and earth sciences), and social studies (geography, civics, and economics). Different versions offer slightly different coverage: the Complete Battery and Multiple Assessments versions provide the most comprehensive testing, while the Survey version offers a shorter assessment. For grades 3 and above, spelling and vocabulary subtests are included. Grade 5+ adds short-answer questions alongside multiple-choice items.
How Homeschoolers Access TerraNova
Several pathways exist for homeschool testing. The most popular is parent-administered testing through services like Seton Testing Services or Kolbe Academy. Parents rent test materials, administer the assessment following the provided instruction booklet (with specific time limits per section), and return materials within two weeks. No bachelor's degree is required for TerraNova 2. Alternatively, organizations like Family Learning Organization (FLO) and Basic Skills offer in-person group testing, one-on-one private testing, or remote testing via Zoom for TerraNova 3. Testing is available year-round.
TerraNova vs. Other Standardized Tests
State Compliance Considerations
TerraNova 2 is a nationally-recognized, norm-referenced test that satisfies most states' annual testing requirements. However, specific rules vary. Oregon requires TerraNova 3 (not TerraNova 2) to satisfy state requirements. North Carolina, New York, and most other states with testing mandates accept TerraNova. South Carolina and Wisconsin cannot order TerraNova 2. Before selecting TerraNova, verify your specific state's homeschool law—resources like HSLDA provide state-by-state guidance on which tests meet compliance requirements.
The Bottom Line
TerraNova offers homeschool families an accessible, affordable standardized testing option that meets requirements in most states. The ability for parents to administer TerraNova 2 without a bachelor's degree removes a significant barrier that exists with other major tests. While the 2017 norms are getting dated and results provide less detail than Stanford 10, for many families the convenience and cost savings make TerraNova the practical choice.
