Thurber's Educational Assessments was a North Carolina-based testing service that provided CAT and TerraNova standardized tests to homeschool families for over 20 years. The company has closed operations.
What was Thurber's Educational Assessments?
Thurber's Educational Assessments, LLC was a standardized testing service based in Chapel Hill, North Carolina that served the homeschool community for over two decades. The company specialized in providing paper-and-pencil achievement tests—primarily the California Achievement Test (CAT/5) and TerraNova—that families could administer at home to meet state testing requirements or voluntarily assess academic progress. Important note: Thurber's Educational Assessments is no longer in operation. Their website now displays a closure notice, directing visitors to HSLDA for alternative testing resources.
Key Takeaways
- Thurber's has closed after 20+ years serving homeschool families
- Offered CAT/5, TerraNova, and Iowa Tests via mail-order rental
- Tests were administered at home and returned for scoring
- Alternative providers include Seton Testing, BJU Press, and Academic Excellence
- CAT tests remain popular for homeschool compliance in many states
Tests Previously Offered
Thurber's provided several standardized achievement tests in both complete battery and shorter survey formats. The California Achievement Test, 5th Edition (CAT/5) covered grades K-12 and was their most popular offering. The TerraNova was available for grades 4-12, and they also offered Iowa Tests. Both survey (shorter) and complete battery (comprehensive) options were available depending on family needs and state requirements.
Current Testing Alternatives
Choosing a Testing Provider
When selecting an alternative to Thurber's, consider which test your state accepts (some states specify particular assessments), whether you need paper or online administration, turnaround time for results, and cost. The CAT/5 remains popular because it uses 1992 norms and isn't aligned to Common Core standards—a preference for some homeschool families. Seton Testing Services offers the widest variety of tests and formats, making it a solid starting point for families researching options.
The Bottom Line
While Thurber's Educational Assessments served homeschool families well for over two decades, the company's closure means families need to find alternative testing providers. Several reputable options exist, offering similar tests with at-home administration and mail-in scoring. Before selecting a provider, verify which tests your state accepts for homeschool compliance—not all standardized tests satisfy every state's requirements. The testing landscape continues to evolve, with more online options emerging alongside traditional paper-based assessments.
