North Dakota Homeschool Testing & Assessment Requirements

Testing is one area where North Dakota homeschooling requires state oversight. But unlike some states that mandate annual testing, North Dakota takes a targeted approach: test in four specific grades, meet a reasonable baseline, and report.

Here’s what you need to know about testing without the confusion.

Key Takeaways

• Standardized testing required in grades 4, 6, 8, and 10 only
• Use nationally recognized test (SAT, ITBS, Stanford, Iowa); choose your own test
• Results submitted to county superintendent; confidential reporting
• 50th percentile is the baseline; below triggers superintendent review, not failure
• Testing is not annual; only in those four grades

Which Grades Test?

• Grade 4
• Grade 6
• Grade 8
• Grade 10

That’s it. No annual testing. No testing in grades 1–3, 5, 7, 9, 11, or 12 unless you choose to.

Which Tests Are Accepted?

North Dakota requires a nationally recognized standardized test. Acceptable tests include:

• SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test; widely used for high school benchmarking)
• ITBS (Iowa Test of Basic Skills; traditional elementary/middle school test)
• Stanford Achievement Test
• Terra Nova
• Metropolitan Achievement Test
• Other nationally norm-referenced tests approved by your superintendent

You choose the test. Not mandated by the state—your superintendent confirms it’s acceptable, but you have flexibility.

How to Register & Schedule

1. Contact test providers directly – SAT, ACT, or local testing centers
2. Know your deadlines – Some tests have registration windows; plan ahead
3. Costs vary – Expect $20–$50+ depending on the test; some homeschool groups offer group discounts
4. Location options – Many tests can be taken at local schools, libraries, or testing centers; some offer online proctoring

Check with your county superintendent for preferred testing windows or preferred providers. Some counties have established relationships with specific testing centers.

Reporting Results to the Superintendent

Once you receive test results:

1. Submit to your county superintendent – Not the school district, the county superintendent’s office
2. Timeline: Submit within a reasonable timeframe (typically 30 days of receiving results)
3. Format: Most superintendents accept copies of the test score report or a simple written summary
4. Confidentiality: Results are not public; they’re filed in your homeschool record with the superintendent

Ask your superintendent for their specific reporting format. A quick email asking, “How would you like me to submit test results?” gets you clear guidance.

The 50th Percentile Threshold

The state expects performance at the 50th percentile or higher. This is the national median—average performance.

What does this mean?

• 50th percentile = average compared to national student population
• Above 50th = performing above average
• Below 50th = performing below average (but not necessarily failing)

If your child scores at the 60th percentile, you’re above baseline. No concerns. Report and move forward.

If your child scores at the 40th percentile, you’re below baseline. This doesn’t end your homeschool. It triggers a conversation.

What Happens if Scores Fall Below 50th Percentile?

The superintendent may:

• Request a conversation – Discuss the results and what supports might help
• Require a curriculum review – Examine what you’re teaching and recommend adjustments
• Suggest additional support – Tutoring, enrichment, or modified instruction
• Increase monitoring – More frequent check-ins about progress
• Recommend formal testing – Possible evaluation for learning disabilities or other factors

This is not a failure threshold or a point of termination. Below-threshold performance doesn’t shut down your homeschool. It signals to the superintendent that your student may need additional support, and the state expects you to collaborate on next steps.

Multiple Children & Testing

Each child tests independently in their grade level. If you have a 4th grader and a 10th grader, both test. If you have two 4th graders, both test.

Choosing Your Test Strategy

Option 1: Formal Testing Each Required Grade

• Register at local school or testing center
• Take the official test
• Report officially

Option 2: Group Testing Through Co-ops

• Many homeschool co-ops (including NDHSA) coordinate group testing
• Often cheaper, more convenient
• Same official tests; coordinated administration

Option 3: Distance/Online Testing

• Some tests available online with proctoring
• Flexible scheduling
• Same official reporting

Recommendation: Contact NDHSA or your county superintendent for testing options. Many families take advantage of group testing coordination through homeschool organizations.

Preparing for Standardized Tests

Low-stress approaches:

• Familiarize your child with test format (sample tests available online)
• Ensure adequate sleep and nutrition before testing
• Avoid overemphasizing the test; it’s one data point
• Use results to identify any knowledge gaps, then adjust instruction

You don’t need test prep courses for elementary/middle school benchmarking tests. Most homeschooled students perform well because their education is personalized.

Special Circumstances

Students with IEPs

If your child has special needs and qualifies for an Educational Scholarship Account (ESA), testing accommodations may be available. Coordinate with your ESA provider.

English Language Learners

If English is not your child’s first language, inform the test provider; some tests have ELL accommodations.

Reluctant Testers

If your child has significant anxiety around testing, discuss this with your superintendent. Alternative assessment arrangements may be possible.

Common Questions

Q: Can I test earlier or later than the required grade?
A: You can test whenever you choose, but reporting is required only in grades 4, 6, 8, and 10. Some families test annually for their own data; that’s optional.

Q: What if my child is absent for a test?
A: Reschedule for the same school year. Contact your testing center or superintendent for makeup procedures.

Q: Can I use a portfolio or homeschool assessment instead of a standardized test?
A: No. The law specifically requires a nationally recognized standardized test in those four grades. Portfolios don’t substitute.

Q: What if my child is accelerated (ahead of grade level)?
A: Test in the grade level they’re actually in academically. Clarify with your superintendent if your child is working at multiple grade levels.

Beyond Testing: Ongoing Assessment

Testing is one measure, but it’s not your only tool:

• Regular quizzes and assignments – Ongoing check-ins throughout the year
• Project-based assessments – Real-world demonstrations of learning
• Reading levels and math proficiency – Track these informally
• Portfolio work – Document growth over time (optional but valuable)

Most homeschooling parents use multiple assessment tools. Testing is the formal state requirement; other methods inform your daily instruction.

Summary

North Dakota’s testing requirement is straightforward: test in grades 4, 6, 8, and 10 using a nationally recognized standardized test, report results to your superintendent, and expect to meet the 50th percentile baseline. Below-threshold performance isn’t a failure; it’s a signal to collaborate with your superintendent on support.

The system assumes you’ll educate your child well. Testing confirms that assumption. Start planning your testing strategy now if you have children approaching these grades.

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More homeschooling resources: Homeschooling by State (All 50 States) | Complete North Dakota Homeschooling Guide