Understanding IEP Timelines in California: A Guide for Families
When a child struggles in school, time can make all the difference. An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a powerful legal tool that ensures students with disabilities receive the supports and services they need to access their education.
In California, there are specific legal timelines that schools must follow during the IEP process. These timelines protect your child’s right to timely assessments, services, and supports. At Futures Unwalled, we empower families with this knowledge so they can advocate with confidence.
Requesting an Assessment
The IEP process begins when a parent, guardian, or educator submits a written request for a special education assessment.
Timeline: The school district must provide an assessment plan within 15 calendar days of receiving your written request.
Parent Action: Once you receive the plan, you have 15 calendar days to review, sign, and return it.
Pro Tip: Always make your request in writing (email counts) and keep a copy. The 15-day legal timeline begins the day the district receives your written request.
Assessment Period
Once the district receives your signed assessment plan, they have 60 calendar days (excluding school breaks longer than five school days) to complete all assessments and hold the initial IEP meeting.
This may include:
Academic achievement testing
Speech and language assessments
Psychological evaluations
Occupational therapy or other related service assessments
Important: The 60-day clock starts the day the district receives your signed consent, not the day you requested the assessment.
The IEP Meeting
Within that 60-day timeframe, the district must hold an initial IEP meeting to:
Review the assessment results
Determine eligibility for special education under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and California Education Code
Develop measurable IEP goals and determine services, if eligible
You have the right to bring an advocate, ask questions, request interpreters, or reschedule to ensure meaningful participation.
Annual and Triennial Reviews
Once an IEP is in place, timelines continue:
Annual IEP Review: The district must review and update the IEP at least once every 12 months.
Triennial Evaluation: At least every three years, the district must reassess the student to determine continued eligibility and service needs.
Independent Educational Evaluations (IEE)
If you disagree with the school district’s evaluation, you have the right to request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) at the district’s expense.
Timeline: The district must respond “without unnecessary delay” by either agreeing to fund the IEE or filing for due process to defend its evaluation.
There is no specific number of days defined, but delays are not permitted under federal and state law.
Extended School Year (ESY)
For students who qualify, Extended School Year (ESY) services are designed to prevent significant regression during school breaks. ESY must be discussed and offered during the IEP meeting well before the end of the school year to allow time for proper planning.
Why Timelines Matter
IEP timelines are not just administrative guidelines—they are legal protections. When these deadlines are not met, students can lose valuable access to services, supports, and progress.
Understanding and tracking these timelines allows families to:
Hold districts accountable
Prevent unnecessary delays
Ensure children receive timely support
Strengthen advocacy efforts
At Futures Unwalled, we stand beside families through every step of this process to ensure that timelines are honored and children get the services they are legally entitled to.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the IEP process can feel overwhelming, but knowledge is power. By understanding California’s legal timelines, you can take proactive steps to ensure your child’s educational rights are protected.
Futures Unwalled is here to support families every step of the way. From drafting assessment requests to attending meetings, our advocates help ensure students receive the services and supports they need to thrive.
