Thurber's Educational Assessments was a testing service that helped homeschool families meet state requirements. They offered tests like the CAT/5 and TerraNova for over 20 years but have now closed.
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 was thurber's educational assessments?
Thurber's Educational Assessments, LLC was a testing service based in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. For over 20 years, they supported the homeschool community. They mainly provided paper-and-pencil achievement tests, like the California Achievement Test (CAT/5) and TerraNova. Families used these tests at home to comply with state testing rules or to check their kids' progress. Unfortunately, Thurber's is no longer in business. Their website now directs visitors to HSLDA for other testing resources.
Tests previously offered
Thurber's offered several standardized achievement tests in both full and shorter formats. The California Achievement Test, 5th Edition (CAT/5) was their most popular option, covering grades K-12. The TerraNova was available for grades 4-12, along with the Iowa Tests. Families could choose between shorter surveys and full battery tests based on their needs and state guidelines.
Choosing a testing provider
If you're looking for a new testing provider after Thurber's, keep a few things in mind. Check which tests your state accepts, as some states have specific requirements. Decide if you want paper tests or online options. Also, think about how quickly you need results and what you can afford. The CAT/5 remains a favorite since it uses older norms and isn't tied to Common Core, which some families prefer. Seton Testing Services is a great place to start, offering a wide range of tests and formats.
The bottom line
Thurber's Educational Assessments was a reliable resource for homeschool families for many years. With their closure, it's time to find alternative testing options. Many reputable providers offer similar tests that you can take at home with mail-in scoring. Before you choose, verify which tests meet your state's requirements for homeschooling, as not all standardized tests qualify. The testing world is changing, with more online choices popping up alongside traditional paper tests.
