The Minnesota Statewide Testing Program (MSTP) Can Help You Meet the Homeschool Testing Requirement
Homeschool Testing
Homeschools are required to annually administer a nationally normed achievement test for each student age 7-17.
Only accredited homeschools are exempt from this requirement in Minnesota. A nationally normed achievement test compares students’ performance to other students in the same grade across the nation. MSTP offers two options that meet this requirement, as well as additional assessments. Get started by choosing the assessment.
If you have not yet informed your district that you are homeschooling, please visit the Minnesota Department of Education website or the Department of Education office in your state for more information. You must indicate your selected assessment on their intent to homeschool forms.
Step 1 - Choose your Assessment
Our office offers the Iowa Assessments and the Stanford Achievement Test Series.
Both assessments meet the yearly testing requirement.
Note: The Stanford is available to Minnesota residents only.
We also offer a learning ability/learning style test (CogAT) and a career interest inventory (IDEAS).
Step 2 - Place your Order
When ordering by credit card, you will be redirected to a secure University payment portal. If ordering by check you will need to fill out a PDF order form. For group or district homeschool orders, please contact MSTP.
For paper tests please allow three weeks for your order to be processed and tests shipped. If you do not have access to a printer, please contact MSTP@umn.edu and we will mail you an order form.
Step 3 - Assessment Administration
Tests are administered according to the test and method you have chosen. CogAT administration details are the same as online Iowa.
Step 4 - Receive Results
All results will be sent to the parent/guardian only.
Online results will be emailed within 1 week of completing the assessments.
Paper results will be sent within 2 weeks from the date MSTP receives all of your testing materials. Results will be sent by mail or email as requested on the order form.
If you have requested your reports to be sent by email and have a GMail account: please check your spam folder for results if you don't see them in your inbox.
Note: Beginning July 1, 2022, turnaround time for Stanford results will increase to 3-4 weeks. See FAQ for additional info
Step 5 - Get Reimbursed
Some school districts will reimburse homeschool educators for the cost of their assessment.
Contact your superintendent's office to request reimbursement
