Free Spelling
Placement Test
Find your child's exact spelling level in just 5 minutes. Our adaptive assessment uses research-validated Dolch and Fry sight words to provide accurate grade-level recommendations.
Trusted by 10,000+ parents and educators worldwide
What is a Spelling Placement Test?
A spelling placement test is a diagnostic assessment designed to determine a child's current spelling ability and identify the most appropriate starting point for their learning journey. Unlike traditional spelling tests that simply grade right or wrong, a placement test adapts to your child's responses in real-time, providing a more accurate picture of their abilities.
Our free spelling placement test uses an adaptive algorithm that adjusts question difficulty based on each answer. If your child spells a word correctly, the next word becomes slightly harder. If they struggle, the test adjusts to easier words. This approach, known as Computer Adaptive Testing (CAT), is the same methodology used in standardized assessments like the GRE and GMAT.
The result? In just 15 questions, we can accurately determine your child's spelling level—from Pre-Kindergarten sight words to advanced 6th-grade vocabulary—and provide personalized recommendations for their learning path.
Why Take Our Free Spelling Placement Test?
Starting at the right level is crucial for spelling success. Here's why our assessment helps:
Accurate Placement
Avoid frustration from material that's too hard, or boredom from content that's too easy. Our test pinpoints exactly where your child should start.
Research-Based Words
Built on the proven Dolch and Fry sight word lists that form the foundation of reading and spelling education in schools nationwide.
Instant Recommendations
Get immediate results with specific grade-level recommendations and a personalized learning path tailored to your child's needs.
How Our Spelling Placement Test Works
Simple, quick, and effective—here's what to expect:
Select Age
Enter your child's age so we start with appropriate words
Listen & Spell
Hear each word pronounced clearly and tap letters to spell it
Adaptive Questions
The test adjusts difficulty based on your child's answers
Get Results
Receive instant grade placement and personalized recommendations
Find Your Spelling Level
Quick 15-question adaptive test to discover the perfect starting point
How It Works
No signup required
Disclaimer: This is an informal assessment tool for educational guidance only. It is not a standardized test, professional evaluation, or official diagnostic instrument. Results are approximate and should not replace professional educational assessment. Consult a qualified educator or specialist for formal evaluation.
Who Should Take This Spelling Placement Test?
Parents & Homeschoolers
- Determine the right grade-level curriculum for your child
- Identify spelling gaps that need extra attention
- Track progress over time with periodic retesting
- Get started with the perfect spelling program
Teachers & Educators
- Quickly assess new students' spelling levels
- Group students by ability for differentiated instruction
- Document baseline levels for IEP meetings
- Measure growth with pre/post testing
Built on Research-Validated Word Lists
Our spelling placement test is built on two of the most widely-used and research-validated word lists in education: the Dolch Sight Words and the Fry Sight Words.
Dolch Sight Words
Developed by Edward William Dolch, PhD, these 220 service words (plus 95 nouns) make up 50-75% of all text in children's books. Mastering these words is essential for reading fluency.
Source: Dolch, E.W. (1936). "A basic sight vocabulary." The Elementary School Journal.
Fry Sight Words
Dr. Edward Fry expanded on Dolch's work with a list of 1,000 words that represent 90% of words in everyday reading material. Our test uses these words to assess higher-grade levels.
Source: Fry, E. (1980). "The New Instant Word List." The Reading Teacher.
By combining these foundational word lists with Words Their Way developmental spelling stages, our test provides a comprehensive assessment that aligns with how spelling is taught in schools across the United States.
Spelling Levels We Assess
Our test covers the complete elementary spelling curriculum:
Frequently Asked Questions About Spelling Placement Tests
Is this spelling placement test really free?
Yes! Our spelling placement test is 100% free with no hidden costs. You don't need to create an account or provide any payment information. Take the test as many times as you'd like—it's always free.
How accurate is the placement test?
Our adaptive algorithm provides grade-level accuracy comparable to traditional standardized assessments. By adjusting difficulty in real-time, we can accurately place students within 1-2 grade levels with just 15 questions. For the most accurate results, ensure your child is focused and in a quiet environment.
Can my child retake the test?
Absolutely! We recommend retaking the test every 2-3 months to track progress. The test uses a large word bank, so your child will encounter different words each time, ensuring valid results.
What if my child's result seems too low or too high?
Test anxiety or distractions can affect results. If the placement seems off, try retaking the test at a different time when your child is more relaxed. Remember, the goal is to find a comfortable starting point—it's better to start slightly easier and build confidence than to struggle with material that's too challenging.
What devices can I use for the test?
Our spelling placement test works on any device with a web browser—phones, tablets, laptops, and desktop computers. The test is fully responsive and includes audio pronunciation, so make sure your device's sound is on.
How is this different from other spelling tests?
Unlike static spelling tests that give every student the same words, our test adapts to each child. We use research-validated word lists (Dolch, Fry) combined with adaptive testing methodology. Plus, it's completely free—no signup, no trial period, no catch.
Ready to Find Your Child's Spelling Level?
Join thousands of parents and educators who use our free placement test to start their children on the path to spelling success.
Start Free Placement Test NowNo signup • No credit card • Results in 5 minutes
After Your Placement Test: What's Next?
Free Spelling Lists
Access 134+ grade-level spelling word lists. Practice with the words your child needs most.
Browse ListsSpelling Courses
Structured learning programs with progress tracking, games, and rewards for grades 1-3.
View CoursesGrade Programs
Complete 36-week spelling programs for Kindergarten through Grade 6. 100% free access.
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