The PASS Test is a standardized assessment made specifically for homeschooling families. Unlike traditional tests, it is untimed and adapts to each student's level, making it a great fit for diverse learning styles.
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 the pass test?
The PASS Test is a standardized achievement test from Hewitt Learning. It's designed just for homeschooling families. Unlike tests made for classrooms, the PASS Test considers homeschool realities. It’s untimed to ease testing stress, parents administer it without needing special training, and it adjusts to match each student's level. Over 350,000 tests have been taken since it started.
The testing process
You can order the tests online or by phone through Hewitt Learning. Once you get the materials, start with a placement test. This helps find the right difficulty level, so kids don’t face questions that are too easy or too hard. The actual PASS Test is untimed, allowing children to work at their own pace. After they finish, send the test back within 30 days. Results arrive in 4-6 weeks, showing how they did compared to other students.
State acceptance
The PASS Test is accepted for homeschool compliance in New York, North Carolina, Washington, and Alaska. Some districts in other states also accept it, but this can vary. Always check with your local school district to see if the PASS Test meets your state’s requirements. If testing is required but PASS isn’t listed, reach out to your district's homeschool coordinator for advice.
The bottom line
The PASS Test serves a specific need for families wanting standardized testing that fits their homeschooling style. Its untimed format and adjustable difficulty create a kinder testing experience, especially for kids who feel anxious about tests. Just make sure your state or district accepts PASS before you order. Its limited grade range and selective acceptance mean it might not work for everyone.
