The Iowa deadline in plain words: 60 calendar days from the school receiving your consent.
How the days are counted
Calendar days, including weekends and school breaks (281 IAC 41.301).
Where this comes from
281 IAC 41.301. Read the official rule.
Federal context
Federal law (IDEA) sets a baseline of 60 calendar days from parental consent for evaluation (34 CFR 300.301(c)), or a timeline set by the state. Iowa sets its own timeline, shown above. Once a child is found eligible, federal rules give 30 days to hold the first IEP meeting (34 CFR 300.323(c)). See all federal IEP deadlines, or how to request an IEP evaluation in writing.
Questions parents ask
How long does a school in Iowa have to finish an IEP evaluation?
60 calendar days from the school receiving your consent. Source: 281 IAC 41.301.
When does the Iowa evaluation clock start?
In Iowa, the clock starts from the school receiving your consent. That means signed consent, not your first request, so sign and return the consent form promptly and keep a copy.
How are the days counted?
Calendar days, including weekends and school breaks (281 IAC 41.301).
Is this legal advice?
No. It is general information. Check your state rules, your district, or your state's Parent Training and Information Center for your situation.
Let the app count the days
Pick Iowa in Tiny Advocate and the Deadlines screen counts by these rules and can link the dates to your calendar. Try it free in the demo (no signup), or start at tinyadvocate.com.
See every state's evaluation timeline.
Not legal advice. This page shares general information from your state's rules as we read them. It is not legal advice. Rules change and districts vary. For help with your situation, contact your state's Parent Training and Information Center or a special education attorney or advocate.