Saxon Math placement tests before you buy

Take the placement list with you

One printable list of the publisher's own test or level guide for 25 math, reading and language arts programs.

If you are choosing a Saxon Math book for a child new to the program, start with the HMH-branded middle grades placement test (PDF). It covers selected content from Math 5/4 through Algebra 1/2. Follow its instructions and placement guide, and consider your child’s previous work alongside the results.

Last checked: Nov 6, 2026.

The test this page explains

The middle grades test is intended for students new to Saxon Math. Its instructions say it is one indicator for placement and is not intended for current Saxon students.

Looking for a different entry point? Rainbow Resource’s Saxon test index also lists primary, Algebra 1, Algebra 2 and Advanced Math placement documents. Rainbow Resource is the homeschool partner named by HMH; it is a retailer, and its index is separate from the publisher-authored PDF above.

How to give the test

Read “The Objective” and “The Rules” on PDF page 2 before your child starts.
Let your child work independently, without a calculator, coaching or other help. The instructions ask students to show their work and continue until they cannot complete any more problems.
Review the written work and use “The Score” on page 2 with the placement guide on page 8. The guide counts correct answers within sections. Keep those sections intact when interpreting the result.

What the result can tell you

The test helps identify an initial book within Saxon Math. The publisher asks you to use its placement guide with sound judgment and to consider previous curriculum and how quickly your child grasps concepts.

Keep the completed test with your child’s recent math work while you choose. The test’s own section-by-section instructions are linked above; this page does not replace them with a single total-score rule.

Questions parents ask

Is this test for a child already using Saxon Math?

The middle grades test says it is not intended for current Saxon students. Its stated purpose is initial placement for students new to the program.

Can my child use a calculator or get help?

The test’s rules say no calculator, coaching or other assistance. Your child should work independently and show their work.

Does one score guarantee the right book?

The publisher describes the test as one indicator and asks you to use the placement guide with sound judgment. Consider your child’s previous work alongside the result.