Standardized Test Prep in Georgia
Standardized testing in Georgia is mandatory for all students, including homeschoolers. These state tests provide general insight of student learning gaps that allow teachers and parents address those areas and help students succeed.
On this page parents will learn what types of tests are required in Georgia, what content areas and grades are tested, testing dates and more! You’ll also discover how Time4Learning can be a valuable partner in helping your child prepare for tests in the long run!
What State Tests Are Available in Georgia?
Georgia relies on various standardized assessments to test grade level and subject matter mastery. Public school students in Georgia are tested annually between grades 3-12. Homeschoolers must use standardized testing to evaluate progress at least every three years, starting in the third grade.
Below is a list of the standardized tests offered in Georgia:
- Georgia Milestones – This standardized test assesses students’ knowledge and skills across different subjects in grades 3 through high school. Grades grades 3 through 8 are tested in English Language Arts and mathematics. Grades 5 and 8 also take the science and social studies tests. And high school students take an end-of-course assessment for ten courses as required by the GaDOE.
- Georgia Kindergarten Inventory of Developing Skills (GKIDS) – GKIDS is a cumulative assessment that monitors kindergarten and first grade students performance in English language arts, math, science, social studies, personal/social development, and approaches to learning throughout the year.
- ACCESS for ELLs – Georgia uses ACCESS for ELLs for students with a primary language other than English. The assessment is given to those students demonstrating a need for English language support. This assessment monitors progress in four areas: Reading, writing, listening, and speaking
- Georgia Alternate Assessment 2.0 (GAA 2.0) – The GAA 2.0 is given to Georgia public school students with significant cognitive disabilities. Grades K, 3-8, and 11 are assessed for English language arts and math. Grades 5, 8, and 11 are tested in science and social studies.
Georgia does not allow parents to opt out of state standardized testing. Testing modifications are available for students when an Individualized Education Plan is in place.
When is Standardized Testing in Georgia?
Standardized testing dates in Georgia typically fall in the timeframes mentioned below:
- Georgia Milestones – Test dates are provided by individual school districts.
- Georgia Alternate Assessment 2.0 (GAA 2.0) – Varies
- Georgia Kindergarten Inventory of Developing Skills (GKIDS) – Year-round
- ACCESS for ELLs – Contact your local school district
Do Homeschoolers Have To Take Standardized Tests in Georgia?
Yes, homeschoolers in Georgia are required to take standardized tests per Georgia homeschooling laws. Georgia homeschool standardized testing must take place every 3 years starting with the 3rd grade.
However, homeschooled students in Georgia do not have access to the tests mentioned above and should instead take nationally standardized tests to fulfill this requirement. Check with your local school district to find out more.
How Time4Learning Can Help with Georgia Test Prep
Technology has become a valuable learning tool in recent decades. Many families in Georgia rely on Time4Learning as their main educational resource or as a supplement to ensure their student’s success in the long run.
The real preparation is to consistently build and master skills in math, science, social studies and language arts; all of which will be tested throughout their academic years.
Here are just some of the ways that Time4Learning can help prepare your child for the Georgia state tests.
- Our curriculum includes dozens of practice test simulations in grades 3-8 to help prepare your student for the real thing.
- Our program includes tons of educational materials in our language arts curriculum and math curriculum to help students in these grades prepare for the Georgia
- Milestones.
- Our robust science curriculum builds the foundational knowledge and promotes critical thinking skills needed to succeed in the Georgia Milestones science test for 5th and 8th grade.
- Our high school curriculum includes a wide selection of courses to help students master the concepts that are tested in the end-of-course assessments.
- Our kindergarten curriculum contributes to students readiness for first grade by teaching all the foundational skills necessary to move to the next level.
- Our curriculum is suitable for students with special needs and works well with different learning styles.
Through preparation and practice, your child can achieve successful results when taking standardized tests in Georgia. In addition, skill-building programs like Time4Learning can prepare your child and build their confidence before they walk in the door.
My kids continue to excel with this program
By Jennifer
“Each year, they pass their independent standardized test with flying colors!”
Additional Resources
- Homeschooling in Georgia
- Georgia Homeschool Laws
- Georgia Homeschool Groups and Co-ops
- Georgia Homeschool Associations
- Georgia Field Trip Ideas
- Georgia Unit Study Supplement
