Letter Requesting IEP / Special Education Evaluation – Free Template
Use this free sample letter requesting special education evaluation (United States): fill it in online, download it as Word or PDF, and follow our step-by-step guide – where to send it, whether it needs notarizing, what to attach and mistakes to avoid.
| Country | 🇺🇸 United States |
|---|---|
| Document type | Education & internships |
| Format | Word, PDF & fill in online |
| Cost | Free |
| Time to complete | about 5 minutes |
| Notarization | Not required |
What is this letter for?
Under IDEA, parents can request a free evaluation to see if their child qualifies for special education. A dated written request starts the legal timeline in most states.
Where do you send it?
Send it to the school principal or the district's special education director, by email or certified mail.
Does it need to be notarized?
Not required. No notarization is needed: sign the letter by hand (or electronically if accepted) and keep proof of when you sent it.
What you need before you start
- Child’s name, grade and school
- Your concerns with examples
- Any outside reports
How to use this template
- Click each yellow field inside the letter and type your details directly (Enter jumps to the next field).
- Read the text through; the “Edit” button lets you change any sentence.
- Click “Word”, “PDF” or “Copy”, then sign and send.
Free template : sample letter requesting special education evaluation
Your full name
Street address
City, State ZIP
Phone | Email
Date
Principal / Special education director name
School name
School address
Re: Request for special education evaluation – Child’s name
Dear Principal / Director name,
I am the parent of Child’s name, a grade grade student at School name. I am writing to request a full and individual evaluation for special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
I am concerned about describe concerns: reading, attention, behavior, speech. Give examples and any steps already taken.
Please send me the consent form so the evaluation can begin. I would also like copies of all reports before the eligibility meeting.
Sincerely,
Your full name
⚠️ Disclaimer: this template is for general guidance only and is not legal advice. Always check the requirements of the organization you are writing to before sending it.
Common mistakes to avoid
- ❌ Asking only at a parent-teacher meeting.
- ❌ Not dating the request.
- ❌ Not following up when no consent form arrives.
Tips before you send it
- Keep a dated copy and send it by email or certified mail.
- Ask for evaluation in all areas of suspected disability.
- Follow up if you get no response within two weeks.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the school have to evaluate?
IDEA sets 60 days from consent, unless your state sets a different timeline.
Can the school refuse?
It must respond in writing; you can challenge a refusal.
Where do I send this letter (sample letter requesting special education evaluation)?
Send it to the school principal or the district's special education director, by email or certified mail.
Does this letter (sample letter requesting special education evaluation) need to be notarized?
Not required – No notarization is needed: sign the letter by hand (or electronically if accepted) and keep proof of when you sent it.