Annual Testing
In North Carolina, an annual standardized test should be administered to all homeschooled students from the age of 7 until their graduation from your Homeschool Program.
The tests need to be nationally-normed standardized achievement tests, which simply means that the students test scores are compared to other students throughout the nation rather than compared to students only within their state. The “End of Grade” tests for NC that are administered by the public schools do not meet this criteria.
High School Testing
Diagnostic tests or aptitude tests do not fit the criteria for annual testing set forth by NC law.
College entrance exams, the ACT and the SAT fit the criteria only if the writing section is included in the content areas tested.
Testing content information is established by NC Law in Chapter 115C – Article 39 of the NC General Statutes – see sections G.S. 115C-549 and G.S. 115C-557
Tests must measure achievement in the areas of :
- English Grammar
- Reading
- Spelling
- Mathematics
Testing Suggestions
Tests can be administered by parents or in a group setting. Online tests that meet the state’s criteria are a viable option.
This website has links to testing providers on the Annual Testing page.
Tests that you may want to look into include:
- The California Achievement Test (CAT)
- The Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS) – grades 1 to 8
- Iowa Tests of Achievement and Proficiency (TAP) for Grades 9 to 12
- The Personalized Achievement Summary System (PASS)
- The Stanford Achievement Test
- Terra Nova Tests
- The Woodcock-Johnson Tests of Achievement
Tests like the Woodcock-Johnson tests are individualized, can often be less stressful and are good for non-readers since they are mainly verbal and take less time than written exams. Those tests are administered by professionals rather than by parents, but parents may prefer to get their results quickly and some test administrators offer input and advice as well.
Tests for each student in your homeschool need to be maintained on the premises for at least one year along with the other required documentation, attendance and vaccination records or immunization exemption when appropriate for medical or religious reasons. You can voluntarily report online to the NCDNPE that you have testing records available.
If you have questions about immunization records, the NC Immunization Branch website is a good resource for investigating vaccination exemptions. Click Here to read more.
You can voluntarily provide the information that you have met the requirements online at the NCDNPE website by completing the online Homeschool Updates and Changes Form.
Testing Requirements According to HSLDA
“Parents must administer an annual standardized test (§ 115C-564) any time during the school year which must be made available on request “for inspection” by the state. “For one year after the testing, all records shall be made available … at the principal office of such school, at all reasonable times, for annual inspection by a duly authorized representative of the State of North Carolina.” (§ 115C-549 or § 115C-557).
Although the Division of Nonpublic Education has attempted to perform home visits under this provision, the law gives its officials no right to enter homes or to inspect any records besides test scores. There is also no statutory requirement for parents to attend regional meetings arranged by the Division of Nonpublic Education for the purpose of reviewing their records. Copies of testing results can be simply mailed to the Division of Non-Public Education upon request. “
Click to Read the HSLDA Analyisis of the NC Homeschool Law
Click to Read the NC Statutes that Pertain to Homeschools
ANNUAL TESTING LINKS
- Academic Excellence Online Testing - Timed & Untimed CAT, Practice Tests-
Online achievement testing provides a comprehensive assessment across reading, language, and mathematics. Tests that can be easily administered by parents or educators and are immediately scored at time of completion. Comprehensive results are instantly provided. Practice tests are just $4 or $5 each.
- ATC Educational Services-
Testing in Wake, Mecklenburg, New Hanover Counties
- Bayside School Services-
Order California Achievement Tests (CAT6) and Terra Nova Test for all grades
- Bindrim Testing & Educational Services-
1063 Carriage Trail, Rocky Mount, NC 27804, 252 -451-0118 or follow the link to see all the educational resources they offer- tutoring, specializing in special needs students.
- Bob Jones University Press-
Order Test Prep Materials, The Iowa Tests, Iowa Algebra Aptitude Test, CogAT, Stanford, OLSAT or Career Direct tests.
- Brewer Testing-
Online Stanford 10, the BASI - (Grades 3-12), The IOWA & TerraNova (Grades K-12). Testing at their East Bend location, using the new Woodcock Johnson IV. Yadkin, Forsyth and surrounding Counties.
- California Achievement Test (Online version)-
California Achievement Test (Online version) for grades 2-12 from Christian Liberty Press. Fast test results and easy to use.
- CAT Forms Testing Service-
1970 CAT test including booklets, student response sheets and directions for administering the test.
- Complete Online Achievement Tests-
Online achievement testing from Academic Excellence provides a comprehensive assessment across reading, language, and mathematics. Tests that can be easily administered by parents or educators and are immediately scored at time of completion. Comprehensive results are instantly p
- Covenant Education Services-
Annual Tests: PIAT-R, WJIII, and WRAT are tests which are administered in a one-on-one setting. Individualized results in less time. Tutoring & Consultation available. Assessments for learning disabilities including:
- Parent interview
- Child Symptom Inventory
- Language Based Learning Differences Diagnostic Inventory (LDDI)
- Beery-Buktenica Development Test of Visual-Motor Integration, 5th Edition
- Slosson IQ
- Peabody Individualized Achievement Test - Revised (PIAT-R)
- Phonemic Awareness Diagnostic Inventory
- Jordan Dyslexia Assessment
- Test of Memory and Learning (TOMAL2)
Discounts and Service Information are at their website - apply for an appointment online. Located in Wilson, NC, but testing at other locations as well. Call 252-281-4788 for questions.
- Crosspointe Educational Services-
1213 Queen Anne Road, Wilson, NC 27896, Call 252-281-4788 or EMAIL with questions.
- Foundations Educational Services-
2101 Piney Grove Wilbon Rd., Holly Springs, NC 27540 Specializing in the Woodcock-Johnson Achievement Battery. Remedial intervention in spelling, reading, penmanship, and math for students in grades 1-8, support and accountability in implementing and continuing Brain Integration Therapy throughout your school year. Call 919-758-0811, or EMAIL Dawn if you have questions about testing, tutoring and homeschool consultation services.
- Hewitt Homeschooling Resources-
PASS test and other homeschool resources.
- Home School Testing - Catforms Testing Service-
1970 CAT test including booklets, student response sheets and directions for administering the test.
- Homeschool Testing Services-
Stanford 10 Achievement tests - onsite group testing for home educators.
- Lighthouse Educational Services-
Woodcock-Johnson IV - individualized testing. Metro-Raleigh, NC area.
- Piedmont Educational Services-
Individualized testing, test prep, CAT 5, Terra Nova, Woodcock-Johnson III, other resources
- Salem Educational Assessment Services-
(Link will open to SEAS email) Salem Educational Assessment Services offers professional educational support to homeschooling families and co-ops. Services provided include administration of the Woodcock-Johnson III Tests of Achievement, educational therapy, and group educational therapy for students with learning challenges. Leslieann Gourley is an ACSI certified WJIII administrator and NILD Level 2 educational therapist intern, as well as a homeschool veteran of twenty years. Call her at 251-8887 or email her at the link above.
- Seton Testing Services-
Nationally standardized ability and achievement tests, practice tests, parent materials and other assessment materials for grades K-12. Year-round testing and scoring. TerraNova 2/ CAT 6 Complete Battery with Plus Test, TerraNova 2/ CAT 6 Survey with Plus
- Smoky Mountain Academic Resources & Training-
Woodcock-Johnson® IV Tests of Achievement (individually administered), IOWA Tests® and optional Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT®), Stanford 10 Achievement Test and optional Otis-Lennon School Ability Test® (OLSAT®), Brigance®
- Testing & Educational Services-
Year end testing for homeschoolers for groups and individuals. BASI and Woodcock Johnson, Diagnostic Testing and Tutoring Services:
- individualized tutoring
- specialized reading instruction for those with delays or dyslexia
- achievement testing that shows grade equivalency
- diagnostic reading tests to assess gaps and determine interventions
- dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia screening
- consultations to provide understanding or training for parents
- TestPoint Achievement Tests-
2100 River Haven Drive, Suite 210, Birmingham, AL 35244, Call 888-988-5884, or follow the link to visit their website for information about placement testing, achievement tests and assessments, online testing for grades 1-12.
- Thurber's Educational Assessments, LLC-
CAT/5 & TerrNova, Year-round, Groups & Individuals
- Triangle Assessments-
Paper tests, online in their office or at you location: Stanford 10® Remote Online, BASI, TerraNova2 (CAT/6) for grades K-12, Iowa Assesments, The Woodcock-Johnson®, WJNU, WJIV, and WIIIP (Ages 4-94, immediate results, make and appt.) as well as diagnostic testing such as the Brigance Diagnostic Inventory of Early Development II. Raleigh, Cary area. Career tests & practice tests - many helpful options!
- Triangle Assessments - Online Test-
Basic Acheivement Skills Inventory (online at their office) and Stanford 10 (in your home online for grades 3-12)
- Your Academic Success Testing Service - Piedmont Area of NC-
Your Academic Success Testing Service - Melanie Todd is a WILSON Dyslexia Practitioner. Standardized Achievement Testing with the Woodcock Johnson IV, the newest version. Also offers Dyslexia Testing and Visual Processing Evaluations and Vision Therapy for eye disorders that affect learning. Contact Melanie at 336-239-5529 or EMAIL HERE.
Is my 17-year-old required to take a standardized test?
Hi Paulette – the law states that a nationally normed test needs to be taken by homeschool students annually – Per the NCDOA: as long as the student is currently enrolled in the home school (does not yet possess a high school diploma) or if the student wishes to obtain/retain his/her North Carolina driver’s permit/license while under age 18. A good option might be to have them take the ACT instead.
Hello, I’ve been homeschooling my daughter since 2nd grade and have given her the PASS test every year. Last year she was in 9th grade and I completely forgot to test her. I’m so mad at myself and just feel lost. How do I make up for this?
Hi Cara – just do the test as soon as you remember and then keep it on hand in the event that you need it. That’s really all you can do – and it probably won’t be an issue.
According to academic excellence if I’m testing my child at the end of the school year I should order the next grade level test. If I do this what grade level standardized test would I give her in 12th grade since she will have taken the 12th grade test at the end of the 11th grade school year?
Hi Megan – I am not sure why they are recommending that although I am sure they have a reason probably based on the tests they are familiar with and selling. Our family always used the grade level the child was in to decide which test level to purchase. If you follow their recommendations and your child doesn’t seem frustrated with the tests, then in their senior year you can have them take an ACT exam which meets NC’s requirements.
I didn’t know testing was necessary! I have been homeschooling since April of 2020! I have done end of grade testing but none of the tests that I’m just now learning about! What can I do to fix this?!
Hi Kris – your end of grade tests may fit the NC requirements for testing if they are a test that is nationally standardized: The North Carolina home school testing law requires that the test satisfy three criteria. The test must be nationally standardized (reports scores as national percentiles, stanines and/or grade equivalents and compares student test results to a national norm); be an achievement test (one measuring subject knowledge); and, cover at least the subject areas of English grammar, reading, spelling and mathematics. If the test fit that criteria then even if they are not a well-known test, you are meeting the requirements under the law. If not, you can just start using a test that fits those requirements now and keep your EOG tests on hand to explain what happened if you even need to.
Is science and social studies on the end of grade test for 7th grade?
In NC, Is the Untimed CAT test accepted for the annual testing, or does it have to be the Timed Cat test?
Thanks
My daughter just turned 7 on March 25. We began our homeschool November 2020. Do I need to test her this year, or can I wait until the next academic year?
We established our homes chool in July 2019. I want my daughter to take the ACT for end of year testing. Is the April 4 date too early?
What is the deadline for End-of-year testing? Should it be done before the last day of classes (May) or can it be done at end of summer in August? Thanks.
Rich – it should be based on the date you opened your homeschool – you are required to have your tests done within a year of that date.
I recently moved to NY, can I summit Fall SAT for End of Year Assessment?
Hi, we just moved from CA to NC. I have two daughters. One is a freshman this year, and the other is in 7th grade. They are currently finished with their school for this year. Annually testing is new to us and I wanted to know what and how I go about it for next year? Are there specific things I need to do for HS and Jr. High? My girls take rigorous classes but are not great test takers. Any advice as to what tests I should have them take and is it mandatory to do? Will testing them at home affect them in any way over taking the test elsewhere?
HI Shelli & welcome to NC – you can test them at home or in a group setting- both are valid ways to test, so use the one that works for your family. You can use an online or paper test that meets NC requirements for annual testing (see the testing page). Your high schooler may want to take the SAT with essay – it’s good practice and counts as her annual test. Enjoy your summer here in NC 🙂
Can my child test out by taking the standardized tests for each grade to graduate early? She is taking the CAT. She is zooming through her classes. Is it okay to just move onto the next grade as soon as she finishes the grade and takes the standardized test? This is our first year homeschooling in NC. Thank you.
Yes, Michele – you can have her move on to whatever level of material she is capable of doing. The test is not like an “EOG” or End of Grade test such as the ones given in NC’s public schools, so you can let her move on whenever she is ready. The test is an annual requirement and not required for her to move on to more challenging materials in your homeschool. It sounds like your first year has been successful 🙂
Can I still pull up my childs results from around last ..Novemember if I have forgotten his password & username???
HI Jackie – are you trying to get into the NCDNPE database? If so you will need to visit their website and Yes, you can sign in to your homeschool account if you don’t recall the PW – they will send you a new one at your email address & then you can update your information with them (the state). Hope this info helps you – I hate when I forget PW, it’s frustrating, but the new system there works pretty well & I was able to update quickly at their website myself 🙂 Good Luck!
I need help mu 9th grader needs to take exams. I have no help and cant get any answers. Im in NC
Stephanie – what do you need help with specifically? Are you homeschooling your ninth grader and asking about testing to meet the homeschool requirements? You can check the testing page for information about who does testing that will meet NC’s requirements. Let me know if that doesn’t help or give me a call 336-293-3477 & I will help you find the answers you need.
Ok thank you so much. We are just starting. She having a hard time adjusting.
My family is considering a move back to NC from VA. We are unschoolers using non-class format education with weekly very informal tutoring by a licensed teacher who also provides our annual assessment for VA state compliance. I am rather anti-standardized testing but I think we can work out ways to get my freestyler comfortable with testing, though he has never had a traditional test and after seeing some, firmly states he doesn’t care for it at all! The thing that concerns me is the attendance records requirement. Since we don’t do traditional classes, we have daily education every day of the year… Weekends, holidays and vacations are some of our favorite days for learning! So “attendance” is daily, yet never… How would we report this type of educational attendance?
Hey there – we unschooled and simply completed an attendance sheet recording each day we spent in educational activities. It sounds like you have a good plan and I don’t think you will have any trouble meeting the requirements, we never did. Hope that helps encourage you 🙂 Welcome back to NC BTW!
My high school home schooler is doing the Penn Foster online program. Do we still have to do yearly standardized testing?
HI Connie – NC law requires that a nationally normed standardized test be used annually, so if your online school doesn’t provide that, you would just need to make sure that you give a test that meets that criteria by one year from the date of the Notice of Intent to Homeschool that you submitted to the NCDNPE. 🙂
Hi. This will be our first homeschool year-end testing. My daughter is in 9th grade this year and struggles with algebra. I want to make sure we are testing on the core curriculum, in the event we decide to reenter public school at some point. Would you suggest one type/brand of test over another? Thanks.
HI Deidra – If you want tests that are aligned with CC, then any of the newer versions of the nationally normed standardized tests that your daughter would be given will be based on standards used by the average U.S. public school, such as the core curriculum. Older versions are still a good choice though for two reasons: (1) they are testing for general knowledge of within a range for that grade/age group & so will include a range of questions in subjects like Math and will have questions that reflect beginning Algebra skills through mastery, so you will get a basic idea of her skills from the scores in comparison to other students her age (2) if at some point she returns to an NC public school those tests have been accepted for placement previously by many NC high schools (which have been moving toward the core curriculum for years). It will depend on your school as to the requirements students need to meet, but it is normally not an issue for students who are on grade level to be re-admitted at their current grade level. You can also have her take the SAT or ACT exams which are now approved by the NCDNPE as long as the writing section is included. Let me know if you have other questions or if I didn’t answer your question satisfactorily and happy high schooling 🙂
I am waiting to hear back if I was accepted as a homeschool. Any tips on handling the charter schools admin when (I pray) we get approved?
Also, I’m trying to figure testing out since I’m taking her out mid-year. Could I do it soon to see where she’s at or wait til April-May? And I’m very confused on where. Do I take her somewhere, test at home or online? And what tests are approved? I’m reading so many. I have so many questions. Thank you from a WNC overwhelmed mom. Carla
HI Carla – you can test whenever you choose, but NC requires that you do it annually. I hope you will look around the website here and find the testing information on the testing page – it has some links to websites for groups that give tests if you want to go that route, but you can also test at home yourself if you prefer. Check out the NCDNPE to see what tests meet the requirements, or look at the testing page here where I listed those too. Hope your school did not give you a hard time and hope school is going well! Let me know if you have other questions or if that didn’t answer yours. ~ Merit
I’m trying to find a test that I can administer at home myself. Our six year old is people phobic so I don’t want to traumatize her by testing somewhere. Do you have any recommendations?
Hi Sarah – I am glad you are able to homeschool your 6 YO – if you are in NC, you don’t need to test a six year old in order to meet the state requirements. You don’t need to submit the NOI until the school year in which they turn seven. So if you haven’t submitted your NOI & set up a homeschool yet, don’t worry about testing until next year. If you need to test, you have options for testing at home with any of the standardized, Nationally Normed tests to give them at home to your student yourself. The tests may have their own requirements (SAT requires a Bachelor’s Degree to administer for example) CAT & Terra Nova provide specific instructions for making accommodations for students with special needs and they are easy to order. You can get paper tests or have them do it online with you. You can also use MAP which is untimed & again you can make accommodations as needed with this one. I hope you find this info helpful & you can check out links to other tests at the Testing Page HERE.
My son has just turned 17th years old October 11th this year. and he is currently on 10th grade at the public school en North Carolina. I was wondering if I home school him, he could be on the right grade level which I believe is 11th grade could you give me an advise if this could be possible or what grade level he should be.
Thank you.
Hi Indira – as the homeschool administrator, you do have the right to decide what grades your students will be assigned to. This is especially helpful for students who are on grade level in most areas, but just have issues (like not doing well with the pressure of the EOG testing) that have held them back in public schools. If your child is really struggling with some of the 11th grade material, you can let him work at his pace and grade level. Often homeschooling allows them to catch up and even exceed their grade level. Of course they have to put in the effort to meet requirements that you as the homeschool teacher give them. I hope this helps and I hope that if you decide to home educate he does well & enjoys it.
I know someone who has been doing “homeschool” for three years now and has not done any kind of testing. Is there something that can be done? I’ve tried explaining this website to them but they just brush it off and think they can teach/do whatever they want.
Hi Lorelai – home educators can use other methods of assessing a student’s knowledge since we are working one-on-one with them. Even public and private schools use alternative methods to evaluate students. It is not unusual for homeschool students to only have the year end testing that is required by the law. You are right to let them know they are obligated to fulfill the requirements of the law in NC, but if they are testing with an nationally-normed annual achievement test, then they are meeting the requirements and it is likely that they are evaluating their students without quizzes or tests. Not quizzing or testing regularly is not proof that they are not teaching their child effectively. If your concern is about them not doing year end testing, then you should ask someone at the DNPE how to deal with that situation if they are not listening to you.
I know of someone that’s been homeschooling for one week, now they are taking the EOG, is that normal. She’s in the 3rd grade
Hi Dennis – Homeschoolers do not take NC’s EOG tests. Each Home educated student is required to have a nationally-normed achievement test annually from the date they file their NOI with the NCDNPE until they close out their homeschool. So if the parent is testing the child, then most likely it is for some other purpose, like a diagnostic test, or to see where to place the child in a homeschool curriculum. Tests are used as tools by homeschool parents whenever they are needed, in addition to the required tests at the end of the year. Hope that helps you.
Hi, my daughter has been in traditional school for the last 10 years and we decided to begin homeschooling for her 11th and 12th grade years. She only had 8 classes left to finish, so my question is if she finishes those classes in one year, can she graduate in one year? Would she have to take the 11th and 12th grade yearly test and if so, can they both be done in the same homeschool year?
HI Rick – homeschooling is great for highschool since it does enable them to graduate from your homeschool program whenever they complete the work you require of them. If that is only 8 more classes/credits for her to get her degree, and if she completes them in only one year, then she only needs to have one annual test (one year from the date of the NOI you filed with the NCDNPE). Just be sure that you have a transcript for her, a certificate of completion & course descriptions are always a great idea too since some colleges & employers request those.
I am in Harnett County NC and I can’t get up w any place about getting an eog test I have been trying for months… someone just emailed me and said they will come to my home and give the test..can’t I give my son the test myself ,I don’t care for strangers in my home!?
Hi Nicole – yes, in NC you are able to administer an annual test yourself. Some test providers, may have requirements for those who proctor their tests, but you have plenty of tests that allow you to do it yourself. Check the TESTING information page for what is required & some ideas of where to get tests that are approved by the state of North Carolina for homeschoolers to use.
Hi there! I’m an unschooling Mom of one. My daughter is 13 and going into the 8th grade this year. I just moved to North Carolina and saw that they have a testing requirement. I’m against standardized testing. Is there any kind of exemption out there? We are moving here from South Carolina and there wasn’t a testing requirement for younger students there. Any help is appreciated! Thank you.
HI April – welcome to homeschooling in NC. There is not an exemption to the annual testing requirement for homeschoolers. Annual testing is a requirement for children once they reach the compulsory age of schooling in NC (7) and there are a variety of tests that meet the requirements. I hope that you will check out some of the tests listed on the testing page here (see the main menu) and find one that doesn’t compromise your values as much as some of the others. Tests can be administered at home by parents, and there are tests that are verbal, or that can be given with modification for non-readers. Scores need to be kept on hand at home, and are not tracked or kept by the state. Tests are nationally normed, students do not take the EOG tests that NC public school students take each year in every subject and they are not Pass/Fail. I can relate to your dislike of them, as can many others. They are not often the best measure of our children’s knowledge and skills. Our family simply came to look at them as a confirmation of what we already knew about our children’s academic progress each year and a requirement we had to meet. I hope your homeschool year is great in spite of the frustration of the testing requirement.
Thank you for your reply! I don’t think it’s going to be a huge deal. I’m bookmarking this page as a reference for the end of the year. Thanks again!
That is wonderful, April 🙂 Glad to be able to keep in touch with you!
I am a new home schooling parent of three and I have a few questions. But my primary purpose is to social network with some home schooling moms near me which is in Elkin, NC. Is there anyone near me that would mentor and network with me? If so please contact me at carla@fairewell.org
Thank you very much!
Carla
HI Carla – there is a great homeschool group for Stokes & surrounding areas – https://www.facebook.com/groups/177733089021900/ you can also email me or call anytime if you have questions about homeschooling – Merit (my contact info is in the sidebars on the pages of the website)
My son is delayed and medical issues .Is their different testing for him? How much does this cost? Im so lost first time here and he is alot hands on.TIA
HI Charity – testing costs will vary depending on the type of the test and the provider of the test. You can test your son yourself with a test that allows for accommodation like the Academic Excellence site which lets you test untimed. If your child is delayed, simply test him at the proper level based on the grade level that he is working on in most subjects. That is not an issue in NC – testing is not a Pass/Fail thing, think of it instead as a tool that is going to help you see where he is and how he is progressing or where he is struggling. If you do want to have someone else test, check the listing on the testing page here to get information about the test provider’s costs. Did that answer your question?
Who has done the $25.00 cat test
Hello Charity – I have used the online $25 test from Christian Liberty – also have used a paper CAT test ($25 – $35) both in a group and individual testing. Did you have a questions about one of those options?
What is the deadline to take the end of grade test for a homeschooler. Please reply back asap. Thanks chrystal
Hi Chrystal – you need to test them within one year of filing your Notice of Intent to Homeschool and then annually thereafter. For example, if you filed your NOI in Dec. 2016, you would need to have them take a test that meets the NC requirements no later than than Dec. 2016. You may want to do it online to meet a deadline that is coming up quickly, or if you are doing a paper test, be sure to allow time for the test to get to you and to be scored and returned to you. Then keep the testing on file in case you are asked to show that you have met the requirements.
My children live with their mother in North Carolina and she homeschools them. My eldest is coming up to 7 years old. What can I do to ensure that they are properly tested in accordance with the law? My ex wife does not cooperate with me much at all.
Hi Jason – NC requires an annual test once a Notice of Intent to Homeschool has been filed with the state. Your ex wife will need to complete her NOI if your son is going to be 7 during the next school year and then within a year of that time, she can test using any test that meets NC’s requirements for homeschoolers annual testing. I am not sure how you will get this information from your ex- hopefully, she will understand your concerns and let you know how they are doing just like she would if they were getting a report card. It is awesome that you are taking an interest in your children’s education! Let me know if you have other questions (or if she does) that I can help with.
Hi There! I am new to North Carolina, and I have a question about homeschool attendance records. A family from my church told me I need to send our attendance records and test results annually to the state. From what I read on the NCDNPE website, it looks like we just retain them at home. Can you clarify that for me? Thank you!
You are right Cara, you are only required to keep them on file. The NCDNPE may request to review them, but typically you only need to update their website to let them know you have them on file each year and if any of your information has changed.
HI ! I have a question. My son is finishing up the 3rd grade in public school and it has been a roller coaster ride that I am ready to get off of because it has made us both sick. He done really bad on his EOG’s and is facing possible retention. I have been contemplating the idea of homeschooling him because I just don’t feel like he is getting what he needs from school to properly learn. If I pull him from school over the summer would it be possible for me to get him back on track and make him a 4th grader without out him having to redo the 3rd grade curriculum all over again? I don’t want him to fall behind and not be able to graduate at 18.
Hi Yolanda – you can teach him at home during the summer if that will catch him up for his school, but it would not be considered homeschooling unless you are teaching him during the school year and not only in summer. If you are homeschooling for the new school year, then you can put him in his regular grade and just put the extra effort into working with him to catch up his skills. Most students are able to get back to grade level quickly, and if they need extra help, the one on one tutoring aspect of homeschooling is wonderful. EOG’s are an issue for some students and just getting away from the stress of that “pass or fail” situation helps them immensely. Sometimes, students are smart, but not good at taking those tests. Hope this answered your question and hope you decide to keep homeschooling him 🙂 let me know if you have other questions.
I have always ordered CAT 6 test for my daughter from NC and this year due to a death in their family I have still not received the test. She always test the week of May 15th and on the 16th of May they sent an email stating they were being sent out late. Still don’t have it after sending emails and making phone calls and leaving messages. Just worries me. I paid for and ordered her on Feb 1, 2017 and have proof. Should I go ahead and order from another company or wait. Just wondering if you know anything about this.
Thanks for your help,
Renee J Futch
Oh wow – I hope you have heard back from whatever company you were using for testing! I am not sure what to advise you, except if you have not been able to get your testing done yet, I might in your situation opt to use an online version this year and get my money back from that company. Good Luck!
Do children completing 2nd grade homeschool have to take a standardized test? Every site ive gone to for testing times says 3rd grade and up. She will be 3rd grade next year. thanks so much.
Stephanie – if the 2nd grader is 7 and you have filed your NOI for the school year, then they need to test by one year of the filing of your NOI. There are lots of tests that include 2nd grade: Bayside School Serivces has the TerraNova for as early as Kindergarten for example, and the new PASS test is leveled rather than using grades. Check out our testing page and click on some of those providers, I am sure you can find a test that will be a good fit: http://nchomeschoolinfo.com/testing-requirements/
Take Thurber’s off your list. I ordered my test, it never came, and I was charged for it. They never answered my calls or emails.
Hey there Nomadmom – I wanted to look into whether I should remove Thurber’s as you suggested. Even though our site is not recommending any of those providers, I don’t want to knowingly promote anyone by linking to their site- if they are not providing excellent service. I am so sorry that you have had this issue. Their website indicates that they recently have suffered two deaths in their family which appears to be why your test (and I am sure many others) slipped through the cracks. Can you tell me if you were able to resolve this with them yet? Thanks for letting me know if you get a chance. Merit
Our 6th Grade son had to be pulled from public school for safety issues. We then entered him into a charter school which did not work out either. He has been studying at home for the last 3 months. Our public school in NC is administering the EOG’s starting tomorrow and going into next week. As our son isn’t enrolled into a school now (we tried to get him enrolled into a different district where the safety issues were not a problem. And my job will be transferring me to this district as well. The school would not allow him to start this school year but rather agreed to him starting this next school year beginning in August) My questions is if he does not score high enough on the EOG, can he still promote to 7th grade if we do summer school and additional tutoring to catch him up in the areas needed?
Thank you so very much!
Dawn
Hi Dawn, since you are not a homeschooler, (NC doesn’t classify you as a homeschool if you only homeschool in the summer) all those decisions will be made by the school in which he is enrolled in the fall. Hopefully they will work with you on this to get him caught up – glad you kept him safe and good luck in the fall! Merit
My son started the school year in third grade for the second time. We decided to pull him in October when a hurricane destroyed our home and we were moved around a lot by our insurance company. He is hearing impaired and home school was inevitable anyway due to his major frustration. What test would you recommend and where do I need to send the information after I test him so that the state can see that he was tested this year? Even though he already has a 3rd grade EOG on file I was wondering if since we repeated 3rd grade would I even actually “have” to test him for 3rd again. It’s so confusing! Thanks in advance
HI Jennifer – I am so sorry you have had all this craziness to deal with this year! Take a look at the Testing page here – there are lots of resources: http://nchomeschoolinfo.com/testing-requirements/ Click through to their websites or give them a call to find out more about how they will accommodate your son’s needs. There are some amazing people providing individualized testing, you can use an online test, or you can use a test at home such as the PASS where you can accommodate him as needed. I hope you find the test or testor who is the perfect fit!
Question do I have to mail in the test or do I just keep it on filed for checking if asked ?
Edith – you just keep them on file at home with your attendance and immunization records (or immunization exemption) until asked for this information. Then you do not have to mail it anywhere, they can view it, but you keep custody of your testing records in your homeschool.
I was wordening if you can give your kid Thats homeschooled 2 test like 7 and 8 grade test in one year?
HI Kimmie – you can test your child whenever the need arises. As long as you are meeting the requirement of a nationally standardized test annually, other types of tests or levels of testing can be used as placement tools, assessment, diagnosis etc.
This is our first year homeschooling. I pulled my son (4th grader) from public school mid year. Is there a certain time of year that the end-of-grade test should be given?
HI Shannon – the law requires only that we each test annually, it does not give a specific date by which we must test. The annual deadline for each homeschool is determined by the date we opened our homeschools, so the deadlines will vary accordingly. You are able to test more often than the required annual test if you feel your student needs it. You can also test at the end of your school year, if that works best for your family and continue with that as a testing schedule. Some families do this so they can test with their support group or co-op groups. Other families may wait and test mid-year before their school’s deadline, in order to allow their students to “catch up” to grade level, or just so their child will be more comfortable with testing. As long as you are testing within the deadline (date your opened your homeschool) and annually thereafter, you will be meeting the law’s requirements. Hope this helps you decide when to test your son 🙂
I have a testing question. This is our first year of homeschooling. As far as annual testing goes, are there requirements for administering the test? Is a proctor or a certified teacher required or am I able to administer the test to my child myself? I realize online testing or testing centers are options, but we’d like to do the standard paper version of the CAT.
Hi Leigh Anne – the NC statutes do not dictate that the testing has to be done in a group setting or proctored. You are able under the law to test at home using the paper version. That said, there may be other reasons to test with a proctor occasionally, for example a high school student who wants to join the honor society, must have a test score to submit, which was not administered at home by their parent. My kids wanted to test sometimes with their homeschool group as well. So short answer; you can administer it on your own, at home annually and be fulfilling the law’s requirements. My kids actually performed better with the “fill-in-the-bubble” paper tests than they did with the online version of the same CAT test.
My yearly test administrator has the WJ III NU. There is a brand new WJ III that has come out and has been re-normed. Will NC continue to accept the older version of the WJ III?
Drea – Yes that test is still fine. As long as it still covers the annual testing requirements established by NC statutes, you can use any test (old or new) that is: Nationally Normed and measures achievement in English Grammar, Reading, Spelling, and Mathematics.
If a student fails can he/she still be promoted to the next grade?
Steven – most homeschool parents look at “grade levels” more flexibly than the public school does. Homeschooled children have the time and resources to work at their individual level in each grade and most do- that means some students will be doing remedial work (lower grade level work) in one area and be working above their grade level in another subject. If you are referring to the annual testing requirements in NC, then the short answer is, yes. The achievement tests are not the same as the EOG tests in NC. A parent/teacher should use the annual test as a tool to decide if their student/child needs review or work in a particular subject as compared to their peers. The annual tests are not Pass/Fail tests. Does that answer your question? Please let me know if you need clarification on anything.
This is our first year doing homeschool, our daughter is in 4th grade. What are some of the options for end of grade testing and testing during the year to see if she is learning what she should be for her grade?
Hi Lisa, there are lots of links in the sidebars of the posts and pages for annual testing providers. What type of test you want and your location may determine which type of test you use for your daughter. Check out the links, keep in mind your daughter’s needs and learning style and then take the plunge and order one. The test should only be a confirmation of what you know as her teacher anyway. If you don’t like that test, you can have her take a different kind next year. Or you may decide to review some test taking skills with her if she doesn’t do well at the end of the year. Sometimes it is just not the best test for your student and fortunately, there are several nationally normed tests we can chose from. Let me know if you have other questions.
This year was the first year of homeschool. My son is Autistic /ADHD combined. After the public school roller coaster for over 7 years and the high anxiety my son experienced especially after attending middle school. We decided to homeschool him for various and numerous reasons. He is not on grade level. He reads at a 4th grade level. In his math he is on second grade level. Spelling amd Grammer as well.I have had success with the change of home school.He enjoys Math,Reading,and learning he is more comfortable with our homeschools environment. Do you know of a test for special needs that I can use to stay within the guidelines for NC homeschool yearly testing.Can I do school year round if I choose as long as I test each year. Thank you
Hi Mary, check the links area for Annual Testing to see if there is someone in your area who will give him the Woodcock Johnson test. It is mostly verbal, personalized and takes a short time compared to a lot of the bubble tests. It covers the subject areas required by NC Homeschool law; English grammar, reading, spelling and mathematics.
Do we begin testing at age 7 here in NC
Yes, Brenda – they need to have an annual test during the time they are enrolled in your homeschool starting at the compulsory attendance age here in NC (7) if they turned 7 during your school year, and you haven’t filed your Notice of Intent to homeschool, you need to do it online and then set up testing for your seven year old. You can use a verbal test, modify a CAT test or you can have someone administer a test like the Woodcock-Johnson.
Homeschooling my 6th grader – I’ve seen a lot of tests that can be given annually (at this point we’re going with either Iowa or the PASS). However, once he’s taken the test for 6th grade am I required to send the test & results to the NC Dept. of Education……or, somewhere? I know this may sound silly, but it’s a little confusing.
No – you don’t need to send anything anywhere. You can report that he tested this year online (voluntary) and if you get an invite to meet, then you will take your proof of testing, vax records and attendance records to that meeting if you agree to go. You do need to keep those records on file at home since by law, they can request to see them if they come to your school. (they don’t as of now do that, but they technically can ask to see these at your doorstep if they wanted to)
Hi, I enrolled my daughter in our homeschool this past June. I tested her April 2015 before right after she turned 7. She was not enrolled at the time. She is now about to turn 8 in a week and I am wondering if I need to hurry to test her before she turns 8. Testing times are between March 1st and the second week in April? Her birthday is the 6th and I’m sending off for her scores. Will it matter if I don’t get the results back before her birthday ?
Joy – you need to test her if it has been a year since her last test. Testing is due annually so you would use your Notice of Intent date as the start date and then a test would be required annually after that. Does that help you decide?
So I just filed my daughter’s notice of intent. She turns 7 Feb 5th. When do I need to test her?
HI Crystal – Congrats on beginning to homeschool! The law states that you will need to test her annually once you file the NOI. So you need to complete her Nationally-normed, standardized test no later than one year from the date you filed in order to fulfill the NC statutes regarding homeschool testing. In other words, within that time frame, you can test whenever it is convenient for you and meets the needs of your student and family.
What a wonderful website filled with great information! I am homeschooling my 11th grader (17 years old) and 12th grader (18 years old) for the first time this year. Am I required to test my older son even though he is 18? Thanks for your help!
According to NC, it is not compulsory to homeschooling your child after age 16. So, no, you would not be required to test your 18 year old son.
Kristina, according to the NC law for homeschools, the student needs to be tested annually for as long as they are enrolled in your legal NC homeschool. For most students that will be beyond the age of compulsory attendance (7-16), so yes, they need to test after the age of 16.
Anne Marie – according to the NC law for homeschools, the student needs to be tested annually for as long as they are enrolled in your legal NC homeschool. For most students that will be beyond the age of compulsory attendance (7-16), so yes, they need to test after the age of 16. So you would need to test them until they graduate from your school no matter how old they are when they graduate. NOTE: I am updating this. I checked the current ACT content, and I do not find spelling as one of the subjects students are tested on, so the ACT & SAT would not meet the annual achievement litmus test given by NC law. Tests must measure achievement in the areas of English grammar, reading, spelling and mathematics. Use the Terra Nova, CAT, IOWA, Stanford or PASS tests for high school.
Hi there! I have a question about graduating. My son is in the 11th grade and he is just experiencing extreme anxiety and having a hard time focusing. It’s been a stretch to get him to school regularly and on time. I’m wondering if he can be home schooled for his last year? I don’t want to make that jump unless he is able to obtain an actual high school diploma. Any information or advice you have to share would be great! Thanks!
Hi Sarah – Once you register your homeschool, you are considered a private school by North Carolina. You are empowered to issue a diploma. Of course beyond just the regular NC law’s requirements, parents homeschooling high schoolers, have the additional responsibility to track credits and grades for the purpose of creating a transcript and issuing a diploma, but a homeschool diploma is considered an actual diploma by colleges and trade schools. They will require his transcripts, grades, and some schools as for a course description for each class. Let me know if you have questions about that too and I hope you both have a great school year.
I just st art ed the process to start homeschooling my daughter. I chose part 2 (non religious) of article 39. Now I’ve changed my mind. I want to do part 1 (religious ). Do I need to wait till everything is finished or can I do it now? If so how do I do it?
Do I have to notify each year my intent to continue homeschooling? I began homeschooling last year, from my understanding from the nc nonpublic webpage was that I didnt have to notify each year only beginning or ending homeschool. But was asking to know for sure.
Hi Diana – you do not need to notify the Division unless you are closing your homeschool. You can check and update your homeschool listing online at their website each year (voluntary) but you don’t need to notify them every year that you are continuing to homeschool. Hope your new school year is going great 🙂
This will be our first year of home education and I’m a tiny bit nervous about the test. Our instruction starts on August 1. I self-scheduled us to order in February and administer in the end of March. Is that a good idea or should I wait until we have completed 9 months? I know to do it at the same time each year, but when is best?
I plan to have someone outside of the household administer the test, such as a friend or maybe our librarian. Is it better or more respected to have an institution administer it? I’ve herd good things about the CAT, but is it appropriate for secular education? Should/can I order a pre-test?
Many thanks,
Cloverallovermd@hotmail.com
Academic Excellence offers an end of year California Achievement test for students with special needs. It can be taken at the student’s pace, divided into as many testing segments as necessary. Completely student-paced. Scoring is immediate, and the can tailor the testing to your student’s need (3rd grade math, 5th grade reading). I just used it for my dyslexic daughter. It was amazing. Cost $20, and practice test was only $5.
http://Www.academicexcellence.com
Excellent info, Pamela, Thanks so much for sharing that! Sounds like a great way to test students who need accommodation.
Hi My daughter is ending her 2nd year in homeschooling now. She finished 4th grade in public school and she was on a IEP program for learning disability. We tested last year with a 4th/5th grade test.
My question: Is there a test that she can take for the end of this school year that is suitable for a child with a learning disabilities and dyslexia. I also feel that we should do 6th grade over again and if so will the ncdnpe allow us to test a 6th grade for 2 years, this year and for next year? I feel she would really benefit and another question is there any help for homeschooling parents with children and learning disabilities in western NC?
Hi Ana~ It is my understanding that many experts recommend the primarily oral test the Woodcock Johnson test, especially for students with special needs. The test is administered by a teacher or other administrator one on one and I believe the admin can make accommodations as needed for your student. More information on testing and on consulting in Western Carolina – you could look at Smoky Mountain Academic Resources and Training (S.M.A.R.T.) group: they do testing and I beleive consulting as well: http://www.smarttesting.net/index.html I hope this helps- if you find another group that is doing testing in your area, I would love to know about them so I can add them to our resources. I do not hear a lot from the Western side of our state 🙂 WNC is a support group in Asheville Area: https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/WNC-Homeschoolers/info and you may find that the parents there have recommdations for you too!
I have been homeschooling for years, but with new changes comes questions. With this new process of being able to update our info online instead of the annual cards being sent out, are we still required to send in the copies of our children’s records (test results and attendance form) to NCDNPE by June 30th? I guess this was considered “Inspection By Mail”…does that still exist? I have looked all over the site, but no success finding any info. I was trying to avoid the call, so I was hoping you could help.
HI Ginger- thanks for the great question! The new procedure of reporting online is simply to update information on your homeschool. The NC state law on homeschooling actually never required home educators to submit tests or test scores to the state. Just like private schools, administrators are still required to keep records including: a record of an annually required, nationally normed test that meets NC requirements, record of immunizations and attendance. Previously NC’s Division of Non-public schools chose to request those tests and attendance records of parents who taught at home, but the law did not state that parents needed to do anything other than have the records available at their homeschool. The new Director of NCDNPE has improved the ease of use of the website and may also request information in that online survey that is not required of us by law, such as number of our students, and/or their ages, but again, it is the homeschool parent’s choice as to how much info. they give online. Just as before, there will be parents who are very comfortable giving out a maximum of information on their homeschools, and there will be those who chose to comply with the requirements of the law only. It is really your personal choice as to how much “reporting” you do, but do not send your test scores to the NCDNPE even if you did so previously. It gives them one less thing to shred this year 🙂
is it to late to began homeschooling. I am totally against eog testing.
Hi Vanessa, you can begin your homeschool any time during the school year. It all depends upon your student’s situation as to when you make that final decision. If your child is, like some public school children are, totally stressed by the NC EOG testing and you want to begin before that time, you need to make sure that you get your Notice of Intent to Homeschool to the NCDNPE right away and be certain that the school knows your intentions. I would be sure to put my student’s withdrawal information along with my new homeschool number in writing- that way you don’t need to be worried about truancy issues. Lots of families home educate during summer, so if your child is behind her peers, you can use the summer time for some educational day trips, visits to the library for good reading material and getting involved with a homeschool support group so that you will be ready for the new “school year”. Here is the link to NC’s Division of Non-public education where you will find info on what you need to do to get started: http://www.ncdnpe.org/registration/hhh110a.aspx
Hi everyone. With our state requirement for achievement testing I am always searching for the best available option. I just used http://www.academicexcellence.com for the first time and it is by far the best I’ve found. I found a discount code too (FIRSTCAT) that made my test only $20. I’m really amazed that they’re offering it so inexpensively. It was so day to take that I think they could charge a lot more (but don’t tell them that!). I’m not sure how long that coupon code is good for, but their site says even if you buy now you have a year to use the test. Hope this helps!
Thanks for sharing the link, Lance. I am sure that is very helpful for a lot of us homeschooling here in North Carolina!
Hi what do I do if I missed the end of the year test this year? Will I get in a lot of trouble? How can I make this up?
Hi there- The NC laws require annual testing. It is my opinion that the law is saying you need to test within one year of your submission on the Notice of Intent to Homeschool. Many homeschoolers think they are late because they use the end of the school year as their testing date. It is fine to pick a testing date each year, but check the date on your NOI- you may not be late at all yet. If you are, just get the tests done quickly and keep the record available in case the NCDNPE wants to see that you have met the requirement. You can even take the tests online at Christian Liberty Press, who offers CAT tests. The tests results are quick (by email) and then you can move into your new school year without worry! The NCDNPE reps seem very considerate and understanding and I have never heard of anyone getting into “trouble” for getting overwhelmed and a little behind on yearly testing. I am pretty sure that they will be reasonable if for some reason they need to check your records and they see the date is off by a bit- but do go get them done ASAP so that you can meet the laws requirements and so that it is off your mind 🙂
I forgot to ask..what grades do homeschoolers in nc test at or is it all grades?
Hi Audra- Please just know that it will all be fine. NC Homeschoolers do need to test once a year. Use a nationally normed test. You can order standardized tests from several testing services (see our sidebar on this website under testing) including PES direct http://www.pesdirect.com/Products/CAT5.html (CAT5) or BJU http://www.bjupress.com/testing/. They will mail them right to your home. You can even get a test online at http://www.shopchristianliberty.com/testing-service/. Even though you may have missed last year’s testing, I am sure your kids will do fine. The NCDNPE website can be hard to read, but the employees are very understanding. If you are asked by them about your testing, you just need to explain your situation. Let me know if you have questions.
Thank you for your advice and help. I was worried about missing that first test, especially since my son has been at college level since he was 13.. The schools refused to pass him up even though he completed all work for his grade, the grade above and the next grade. When they ran out of work to give him, they just let him read in class. He was apart of the talented and gifted program and was suppose to meet the president but I pulled him out of school since the school insisted on keeping him at the same level. He has since been given college course work from the college courses I take to keep him interested in school. He wants to attend college now but the college says he must be at least 16, which he will be in April. I have been worried out of my mind on making sure he stays ahead of the game since he refuses to do anything he finds to be remedial. Also, do you know how I go about getting him his license? How do I homeschool drivers ed and get him a permit?
Hi again Audra- Driver’s Ed question: contact your local public high school and have them direct you to whoever is in charge of their DE. Once he is signed up for their classes, they are really helpful in figuring out which steps to take and when. When you are ready to apply for your Driver’s Eligibility Certificate you will go here : http://www.ncdnpe.org/DECRequestForm.aspx – you need your homeschool ID# to get one sent to you.
Testing must be done annually for homeschoolers.
I didn’t know about the tests so missed lasts years and am late for this years.. I just started teaching next level up automatically. I did private testing with free eogs released online to make sure I was covering everything..once at the beginning, once in The middle and once at the end of ths school year to make sure they stayed on track. Where can I get home tests from? I need for 5th 6th 8th 9th to make up for last year and this year. I started homeschooling in January of last year so figured the school EOG counted but was told it does not even the they tested out of their grade level. I didn’t get a whole lot of help with being a first time homeschooler..everyone acted like it was a state secret and gave me vague advice or sent me to the god AWEFUL ncdnpe site which makes little to no sense to me. I. Dyslexic so I teach I a unique fashion. It affects comprehension when there is just to much information jammed I to tiny print. I prefer strait forward lists of what I need to do.
I am confused about where to have my 6th grader tested so she can proceed to the 7th grade and will most likely be returning to public school in the fall. I need help!
Hi Karen- Your student can be tested anywhere, including in your own home for the end of her homeschool year. The tests home educators are required to give yearly are Standardized and Nationally Normed tests and are not a PASS/FAIL test such as the end of grade (EOG) testing in NC public schools. If you are planing on her returning to public school for 7th grade, you might want to consider having someone else test her, so that the schools may be more likely to put her back on grade level. They trust the “objectivity” of an outside testor more than they do the testing of a parent. You need to have the test done annually to fulfill the requirements of our state to homeschool, but remember, the public schools may require additional placement exams anyway. With all that in mind, if I were in your situation, I would look for an independent tester in my area for her year end test and choose one that the schools do use and trust such as the Woodcock-Johnson III. Depending on how friendly your school district is to home educators, you might be able to find out from them if they will accept your year end independant testing in lieu of other entrance exams for her 7th grade. I hope this gives you some guidance and help- I wish her well in her return to Public School this fall 🙂
Thanks so much! This has helped me a lot!
Glad it helped Karen, I know decision making can be stressful!
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