Annual Assessment is a yearly check some states require to ensure homeschooled students are learning well. This can include tests, portfolio reviews, or evaluations by teachers.
Research from the National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI) shows that homeschooled students typically score 15 to 25 percentile points higher than public school students on standardized academic achievement tests. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), approximately 3.3 million students were homeschooled in the United States as of 2023, representing roughly 6% of the school-age population.
What is annual assessment?
Annual Assessment is a yearly evaluation that some states need to make sure homeschooled kids are progressing academically. There are different ways to assess—like standardized tests, portfolio reviews by certified teachers, or evaluations from qualified educators. The goal isn’t about comparing students to grade levels. Instead, it's about showing growth that matches your child's age and abilities. About half of the states have some assessment rules, ranging from yearly checks to tests every few years.
Standardized testing options
You have several homeschool-friendly tests to choose from. Popular ones include the California Achievement Test (CAT), Iowa Tests of Basic Skills, Stanford Achievement Test, and TerraNova. The Stanford test is untimed, great for students needing more time. The Iowa test is known for measuring thinking skills well. The CAT has shorter sessions, which some families prefer. Many stick to the same test each year to track progress. Tests usually cost between $25 and $60 and can often be given at home by parents.
Portfolio assessment
A portfolio gathers work samples that show what your child learned during the year. This can include writing samples, math tests, project photos, reading logs, and activity records. A certified teacher reviews the portfolio and writes an evaluation. This method highlights learning that tests might miss, like art projects, hands-on science, and creative writing. Portfolios are especially helpful for kids who don't test well or learn in unique ways. Organize the samples by date to show progress over the year.
What if results show concerns?
What happens if the assessment results aren’t great? States handle this differently. Some have no minimum score requirements. In these cases, the assessment is just for information, not to keep kids out of homeschooling. Where there are requirements, the minimum scores can be pretty low—like the 15th percentile in some places. Often, low results just point out areas that need more focus in teaching. Unless a student is really falling behind, intervention doesn't happen often. The assessment is more for your benefit as a parent than for state regulation.
The bottom line
Annual Assessment rules can vary a lot by state. Some require detailed yearly tests, while others have no requirements at all. If assessments are needed, you usually have options that fit your teaching style. Standardized tests may suit kids who learn in traditional ways, while portfolios can show progress for those who learn differently. Always focus on showing growth instead of hitting specific benchmarks. Use the results to guide your teaching rather than judging your homeschool’s value.
