Testing Details

If you have decided to use standardized testing for your homeschooled child (and for ASD kids, this is not necessarily required - see Testing and the PDP) , then you will need to use an authorized tester, either an organization or individual.

Is there only one test?

In the Oregon law there are several optional tests that may be used.  In practice, however, nearly all local providers use the Terra Nova (formerly known as the California Achievement Test).  Note, this is NOT the test used in Oregon public schools, it is a much more straightforward, on paper, multiple choice test.

What does the Terra Nova cover?

There are several versions of the Terra Nova (longer, shorter, additional subjects), but the only ones required are Language Arts (reading and grammar) and Math in the "Survey Form".  

Terra Nova tests are available in all grades, so if your child is on a PDP, you can choose to test in any grade applicable. 

What is the cost?

A group test will be slightly cheaper, around $50, and a private test may be up to $100, depending on the time and accommodations needed.

Who are some local providers?

• Basic Skills offers group and private testing at their offices in Oregon City, throughout the summer and on an individual basis year around. They offer the shorter Survey Form version.  Since the pandemic they are also offering proctored testing at your home via Zoom. They can also split up the test into two days, if your child cannot sit for 4 hours at once. 

• Village Home Co-Op offers group tests in June at their Beaverton and Salem campuses.  If you need private testing, they can set you up with a provider.  They offer the longer "Basic Battery" version so you may need to request the Survey Form.

• Private individuals are also approved by the state, but their availability fluctuates.  The best way to find out current availability is by posting an inquiry on a few local Facebook groups.  The Basic Skills web site also has a list of examiners by location, that may be more up to date than the (usually inaccurate) Oregon state web site. 

How can I know if my child is ready to take a test in their grade level?  What is covered?

• You can buy an inexpensive practice test from Basic Skills, which will give you a good idea of the Terra Nova content in any grade.  Order online or go to the Exodus Books store to browse before buying.

• Also, there are Test Prep books by Spectrum that provide an overview of skills that are typical in each grade.  Keep in mind that these will be aimed at the general public school population. Rainbow Resource is a good place to find these online, or go to Lakeshore Learning to browse various grades.

What are the testing deadlines?

The normal schedule for students without a disability is to test by August 15th of the years following 3rd, 5th, 8th, and 10th grades.  This is the grade by age, or whatever you entered on your ESD registration form.

If you have just started homeschooling, and have not been doing it at least 18 months when a test deadline occurs, you do NOT have to test until the NEXT test period.  For example, if you pulled your child out of school in September of third grade, then you would only have been homeschooling for 11 months by August after 3rd grade, so you do not need to test until the 5th grade.  

However, if your child has a qualifying learning disability, you can write a PDP that specifies using a different testing schedule, or alternative methods. See Testing and the PDP. 

Can we take it in our home, privately?

Yes, there are providers who will come to your house, or offer it in their own home.  This is a nice option if you need a quiet, no-pressure environment or other accommodations such as frequent breaks.  It will cost slightly more than a group test.  As noted above - Basic Skills is now offering a proctored Zoom option you can do from home as well.