The WRAT (Wide Range Achievement Test) is a quick, individually-administered achievement test measuring reading, spelling, and math skills for ages 5-85+—popular with homeschoolers for annual assessment and learning disability screening because it takes only 30-45 minutes to complete.
What is the WRAT Test?
The WRAT (Wide Range Achievement Test) is an individually-administered standardized assessment measuring fundamental academic skills in word reading, sentence comprehension, spelling, and math computation. Now in its fifth edition (WRAT-5), this test has been used since 1946 to quickly evaluate basic skill levels. Unlike multi-day group tests like the Iowa Assessments or Stanford-10, the WRAT takes just 30-45 minutes for most students. For homeschoolers, it provides a fast way to gauge progress, identify potential learning difficulties, and satisfy assessment requirements in states accepting nationally-normed tests. The WRAT-5 is published by Pearson Assessments and requires administration by a qualified examiner.
Key Takeaways
- Measures reading, spelling, and math only—doesn't cover science or social studies
- Takes 30-45 minutes (15-25 for ages 5-7), unlike multi-day comprehensive tests
- Requires administration by a qualified professional (typically Level B certification)
- Two equivalent forms (Blue/Green) allow beginning and end-of-year testing
- Approved for Florida's PEP Scholarship and other specific programs
WRAT-5 vs. Other Achievement Tests
State Acceptance for Homeschool Compliance
State acceptance varies, and this is where careful research matters. Florida explicitly approves WRAT-5 for PEP (Personalized Education Program) Scholarship families, with testing billable directly through the EMA system. States requiring "nationally-normed standardized tests"—including Virginia, New York, and North Carolina—may accept WRAT, though it only covers reading, spelling, and math. If your state requires testing in additional subjects like science or social studies, WRAT alone won't satisfy requirements. Always verify current requirements with your state's Department of Education before relying on WRAT for compliance.
Practical Considerations for Homeschoolers
The WRAT's primary advantage is efficiency—you get standardized assessment data without sacrificing multiple school days to testing. It's also useful for screening potential learning disabilities before pursuing comprehensive evaluation. However, parents cannot administer the WRAT themselves; it requires a qualified examiner (typically someone with at least a master's degree in psychology or education). Most homeschool families access WRAT through testing services, homeschool co-ops with qualified evaluators, or private educational psychologists. Testing through third-party services typically costs $100-125 per student. The complete professional kit costs $400-500+ for those with credentials to administer.
The Bottom Line
The WRAT serves homeschoolers who want quick, meaningful assessment data without the marathon of comprehensive standardized testing. It's particularly valuable as an annual progress check, for screening learning difficulties, or for satisfying specific scholarship requirements like Florida's PEP program. Its limitation is scope—covering only reading, spelling, and math—so it won't meet all state testing requirements. Consider it one tool in your assessment toolkit rather than a complete solution. For families in states accepting any nationally-normed test and wanting minimal testing disruption, the WRAT's efficiency is hard to beat.
