How to Request an Educational Evaluation from Your Child's School

Learn the steps to formally request special education testing and evaluation services through your school district.

1. Understanding Your Rights. Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), parents have the right to request a free educational evaluation at any time if they suspect their child has a disability that affects learning. Schools must respond to written requests within a reasonable timeframe—typically 15 school days to provide consent forms, then 60 calendar days to complete the evaluation once you've signed consent. You don't need to prove your child has a disability to request an evaluation. Concerns about academic performance, behavior, social skills, or developmental delays are all valid reasons to ask for testing. The school cannot require you to try other interventions first, though they may suggest them.
2. Preparing Your Written Request. Put your request in writing, even if you've already spoken to teachers or administrators verbally. Address your letter to the school principal or special education coordinator. Include your child's full name, grade, teacher, and school. Clearly state that you are requesting a comprehensive educational evaluation to determine if your child is eligible for special education services. Describe specific concerns you've observed, such as difficulty reading at grade level, trouble focusing during instruction, or challenges with social interactions. Include examples from home and any relevant history, like previous evaluations or medical diagnoses. Be factual rather than emotional in your tone—this is a formal document that becomes part of your child's educational record. Keep a copy of your letter and request a receipt or send it via certified mail to document when the school received it. This starts the legal timeline for the school's response.
3. What Happens After You Submit Your Request. The school will review your request and decide whether to proceed with an evaluation. If they agree, they'll send you a consent form explaining what types of testing they plan to conduct. Read this carefully—you can request additional areas of evaluation if you feel they're missing something important. If the school declines to evaluate, they must provide you with a written explanation and information about your rights. You can challenge this decision through mediation or by filing a complaint with your state's education department. Once you sign consent, the evaluation process typically takes 60 calendar days. During this time, your child may undergo academic testing, psychological assessment, speech and language evaluation, occupational therapy screening, or other assessments depending on your concerns. You should receive regular updates on the timeline.
4. Preparing for the Evaluation Process. Help your child understand what's happening in age-appropriate terms. Explain that they'll be working with different adults who want to learn how their brain works best, and that there are no right or wrong answers. Gather any relevant documents to share with the evaluation team, including medical records, previous test results, report cards, and examples of your child's work that illustrate your concerns. Communication with previous teachers or therapists can also provide valuable insight. Stay in regular contact with your child's teacher and the evaluation coordinator. Ask questions about the process and timeline. You have the right to know which professionals will be involved and what types of testing they'll conduct.
5. After the Evaluation is Complete. Once testing is finished, the school will schedule a meeting to review results and determine eligibility for services. This is called an Eligibility Meeting or IEP Team Meeting. You'll receive a copy of the evaluation report beforehand—read it carefully and prepare questions. If your child qualifies for special education, the team will develop an Individualized Education Program (IEP) outlining specific goals and services. If they don't qualify for special education but still need support, you might explore a 504 Plan for accommodations. Remember that you can request an independent educational evaluation at the school's expense if you disagree with their findings, though the school may challenge this through a hearing.