How to Request an IEP Evaluation: Step-by-Step Guide for Parents

To request an IEP evaluation, write a formal letter to your child's school principal and special education director stating that you suspect your child has a disability and are requesting a comprehensive evaluation under IDEA. The school must respond in writing and cannot unreasonably delay the process.

When Should You Request an Evaluation?

Consider requesting an evaluation if your child is consistently struggling academically despite classroom interventions, has been identified by teachers as having difficulty keeping up with peers, exhibits behavioral or social-emotional challenges that affect learning, or has a medical diagnosis (such as ADHD, autism, or a learning disability) that you believe impacts their education.

You don't need a doctor's note or formal diagnosis to request an evaluation. Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), any parent can request an evaluation at any time. The school cannot require you to try interventions (like RTI) before agreeing to evaluate. Unfamiliar with terms like RTI, FAPE, or PWN? See our special education glossary.

Step 1: Put Your Request in Writing

While you can make a verbal request, a written request creates a documented paper trail and starts the legal clock. Address your letter to both the school principal and the director of special education. Include your child's name, date of birth, grade, school, and a brief description of your concerns. Use our Parent Rights Letter Builder to generate a customized request letter.

Step 2: Deliver and Document

Send your letter via email and follow up with a hard copy. Keep copies of everything — the letter, any email confirmations, and notes from phone calls. If you hand-deliver the letter, ask the school office to stamp a copy with the date received. This documentation is critical if disputes arise later.

Step 3: Wait for the School's Response

The school must respond in writing with either consent to evaluate or Prior Written Notice (PWN) explaining why they're declining. Most states require a response within 15 school days. If the school agrees to evaluate, they'll send you a consent form. Read it carefully — you can consent to the evaluation while reserving the right to disagree with the results.

Step 4: The Evaluation Process

Once you sign consent, the school has 60 calendar days (in most states) to complete a comprehensive evaluation. This typically includes academic achievement testing, cognitive assessments, behavioral observations, speech/language screening (if relevant), and input from teachers and parents. The evaluation must assess all areas of suspected disability.

Step 5: The Eligibility Meeting

After the evaluation, the school convenes a meeting to determine whether your child qualifies for special education services under one of IDEA's 13 disability categories. If your child qualifies, the team will develop an IEP within 30 days. If your child doesn't qualify, you can request an 504 plan or pursue an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE).

What If the School Says No?

If the school refuses to evaluate, they must provide Prior Written Notice explaining their reasoning. You have several options: request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) at public expense, file a complaint with your state's department of education, or pursue due process. Many parent advocates can help you navigate these options — the process can feel overwhelming, but you have strong legal rights under IDEA.

Sample Evaluation Request Letter

Frequently Asked Questions