The WRAT Test (Wide Range Achievement Test) assesses basic academic skills like reading, spelling, and math. Now in its fifth edition, it’s a quick way to check learning progress for homeschoolers.
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. A peer-reviewed study published in Peabody Journal of Education found that homeschooled children are typically well-adjusted socially and score above average on measures of social skills, emotional development, and daily living skills (Richard Medlin, 2013).
What is the wrat test?
The WRAT Test, or Wide Range Achievement Test, measures key academic skills. It looks at word reading, sentence understanding, spelling, and math skills. Now in its fifth edition (WRAT-5), it’s been around since 1946. This test helps you quickly check your child’s basic skills. It takes about 30-45 minutes, which is much shorter than multi-day tests like the Iowa Assessments. For homeschool families, it’s a great way to track progress and spot any learning issues. Plus, it meets requirements in states that accept nationally-normed tests. The WRAT-5 is published by Pearson Assessments and needs a qualified examiner to give the test.
State acceptance for homeschool compliance
Each state has its own rules about the WRAT Test. For example, Florida allows WRAT-5 for PEP (Personalized Education Program) Scholarship families, and they can bill the test through the EMA system. States like Virginia, New York, and North Carolina may accept WRAT as it covers reading, spelling, and math. But if your state wants tests in other subjects, WRAT alone won’t be enough. Always check with your state’s Department of Education to confirm current testing requirements.
Practical considerations for homeschoolers
The WRAT Test is efficient. You get standardized results without taking several days for testing. It’s also handy for spotting learning disabilities before deeper evaluations. However, parents can’t give the test themselves; it must be administered by a qualified examiner, usually with a master’s degree in education or psychology. Many homeschool families find the WRAT through testing services, co-ops with qualified evaluators, or private educational psychologists. The cost is typically around $100-125 per student, while the full professional kit can range from $400-500+ for those qualified to administer it.
The bottom line
The WRAT Test is perfect for homeschoolers needing quick and meaningful assessment data. It’s great for annual progress checks or to meet specific scholarship requirements like Florida’s PEP program. However, it only covers reading, spelling, and math, which means it may not fulfill all state testing needs. Think of it as one useful tool among many for assessing your child's skills. For families in states that accept any nationally-normed test, the WRAT's efficiency stands out.
