The North Carolina deadline in plain words: 90 calendar days from the school receiving your written referral (evaluation, eligibility, IEP and placement all done).
How the days are counted
"Day" means calendar day unless a rule says business day or school day (NC 1500-2.7). The 90 days run through summer and school breaks.
Where this comes from
NC 1503-2.2(c). 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. North Carolina 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 North Carolina have to finish an IEP evaluation?
90 calendar days from the school receiving your written referral (evaluation, eligibility, IEP and placement all done). Source: NC 1503-2.2(c).
When does the North Carolina evaluation clock start?
In North Carolina, the clock starts from the school receiving your written referral (evaluation, eligibility, IEP and placement all done). That means it starts with your written referral, so put your request in writing and date it.
How are the days counted?
"Day" means calendar day unless a rule says business day or school day (NC 1500-2.7). The 90 days run through summer and school breaks.
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 North Carolina 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.