What is an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE)?

An IEE is an assessment conducted by a qualified examiner not employed by the school district, providing an external perspective on a child's educational needs.

If the school agrees, they pay for the IEE. Otherwise, parents can pay independently, but reimbursement is not guaranteed unless the school's evaluation is proven inadequate.

How long does the school have to respond to an IEE request?

The school must respond without unnecessary delay, either agreeing to the IEE or initiating a due process hearing.

Can I choose any evaluator for the IEE?

You can choose an evaluator, but they must meet the school district's criteria for qualifications and cost.

What if the school refuses my IEE request?

The school must prove their evaluation was appropriate in a due process hearing if they refuse to fund the IEE.

When Should I Request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE)?

An Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) can provide a second opinion on your child's educational needs. Requesting an IEE is appropriate when you disagree with the school's evaluation or need more information to support your child's learning.

Author: S.S. Education Advocacy Team
Reading time: 5 min read
Last updated: Updated June 30, 2026
Topic: Evaluations · Independent evaluation

Understanding Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE)

An Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) is an assessment conducted by a qualified examiner who is not employed by the school district. It provides an external perspective on your child's educational needs.

Parents may seek an IEE if they disagree with the results of the school's evaluation or if they feel the school's evaluation was incomplete or inaccurate. The IEE can cover various areas, including cognitive, academic, behavioral, and emotional assessments.

When to Consider Requesting an IEE

You might consider requesting an IEE if you believe the school's evaluation does not accurately reflect your child's abilities or needs. This could be due to concerns about the evaluation's thoroughness, methodology, or conclusions.

An IEE can also be beneficial if your child is not making expected progress, and you suspect the school's evaluation missed key areas of need. Additionally, if the school refuses to evaluate certain areas you believe are important, an IEE can provide that information.

How to Request an IEE

To request an IEE, write a formal letter to your child's school district. Clearly state that you are requesting an IEE at public expense and specify the reasons for your request.

The school must respond to your request promptly. They can either agree to fund the IEE or initiate a due process hearing to show that their evaluation is appropriate.

What Happens After Requesting an IEE

Once you request an IEE, the school district should provide you with information about where an IEE may be obtained and the district's criteria for IEEs.

If the school agrees to the IEE, they will typically provide a list of qualified evaluators. You have the right to choose an evaluator who meets the district's criteria.

Funding an IEE

If the school agrees to fund the IEE, they will cover the costs as long as the evaluation meets their criteria. If the school refuses to fund the IEE, they must prove in a due process hearing that their evaluation was appropriate.

Parents can also choose to fund an IEE independently. However, if you pay for the IEE yourself, you may not be reimbursed unless you can prove the school's evaluation was inadequate.

Using the Results of an IEE

The results of an IEE can provide valuable insights into your child's educational needs and help tailor their Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan.

You can use the findings to advocate for specific services, supports, or accommodations in school meetings. The school must consider the results of the IEE, but they are not obligated to agree with all recommendations.

Practical tips

Request an IEE in writing to ensure there is a formal record.
Keep a copy of all correspondence related to the IEE request.
Research potential evaluators to ensure they meet district criteria.
Prepare to explain why the school's evaluation is insufficient.
Be proactive in following up with the school regarding your request.

Common mistakes to avoid

Failing to request an IEE in writing, which can lead to misunderstandings.
Not understanding the school's criteria for IEEs, which can delay the process.
Assuming the school will automatically agree to pay for the IEE.
Overlooking the importance of the IEE results in IEP meetings.

Frequently asked questions

What is an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE)?: An IEE is an assessment conducted by a qualified examiner not employed by the school district, providing an external perspective on a child's educational needs.
Who pays for an IEE?: If the school agrees, they pay for the IEE. Otherwise, parents can pay independently, but reimbursement is not guaranteed unless the school's evaluation is proven inadequate.
How long does the school have to respond to an IEE request?: The school must respond without unnecessary delay, either agreeing to the IEE or initiating a due process hearing.
Can I choose any evaluator for the IEE?: You can choose an evaluator, but they must meet the school district's criteria for qualifications and cost.
What if the school refuses my IEE request?: The school must prove their evaluation was appropriate in a due process hearing if they refuse to fund the IEE.