PA

High regulation

Pennsylvania homeschool testing requirements

Testing rules vary dramatically by state. This page gives parents the current Pennsylvania testing/evaluation summary, frequency, and practical next steps without burying the answer in legal language.

Plain-English note: this is a parent guide, not legal advice. Use the official source links at the bottom of the page before a deadline or filing decision.

Is testing required?

Yes. An annual written evaluation is generally required every year, and standardized testing is required in certain grades.

How often?

Annual evaluation every year; standardized testing in grades 3, 5, and 8.

Recordkeeping connection

Keep a portfolio for each student with a log made at the time of instruction, reading materials used, and samples of writings, worksheets, workbooks, or creative materials. Families also typically keep copies of the affidavit and annual evaluation, and the affidavit process references immunization and health records or lawful exemptions.

Notification connection

Yes. Families homeschooling under the home education statute generally file a notarized affidavit or unsworn declaration each year. Deadline: By August 1 each year, or before starting a home education program midyear.

Practical testing file

  1. 1Name of test, evaluator, or portfolio reviewer if used.
  2. 2Date completed and school year covered.
  3. 3Score report, evaluator letter, portfolio receipt, or parent summary.
  4. 4Copy of anything submitted to a district, umbrella school, or state office.

Free printables

Download the homeschool starter kit

Print these before you start: a state startup checklist, letter-of-intent template, attendance tracker, and high-school transcript template.

View all downloads

These printables are general planning tools, not legal advice. Always verify the current rule on your state page and official source links before filing deadlines.

Frequently asked questions

Does Pennsylvania require standardized testing for homeschoolers?

Yes. An annual written evaluation is generally required every year, and standardized testing is required in certain grades.

How often do Pennsylvania homeschoolers test or evaluate?

Annual evaluation every year; standardized testing in grades 3, 5, and 8.

Where should I store results?

Keep testing or evaluation records with your Pennsylvania homeschool records, even if the state does not require submission every year.

See testing in context

Testing is only one compliance field. Review the complete Pennsylvania requirement hub before your school year starts.

Pennsylvania homeschool requirements