Homeschool testing in Maine
Verified against primary sources on July 19, 2026
At a glance
- Testing required
- Yes
- When
- annual (assessment due Sept 1 with subsequent-year letter; test is 1 of 5 options)
- What qualifies
- Standardized test required
- Who administers
- Via district or commissioner-approved arrangements; DOE guidance describes parent administration in practice.
- Results
- Filed with the state
- Score floor
- None in current statute.
What the law says
“A standardized achievement test administered through the administrative unit in which the student resides or through other arrangements approved by the commissioner.”
— 20-A M.R.S. § 5001-A(3)(A)(1)(b)
Alternatives to testing
District-developed test; ME-certified-teacher review; homeschool support-group portfolio panel (incl. a certified teacher); superintendent-selected local advisory board.
Worth knowing
No norming qualifier in the statute — “a standardized achievement test.” The first year of home instruction requires no assessment.