Regardless of the type of adoption (domestic or intercountry) or entity that assists families in the process (public agency, licensed private agency, attorney or adoption facilitator), nearly all families must complete the home study process prior to proceeding with an adoptive placement. The primary purpose of a home study is to ensure that each child is placed in a suitable home and that good matches are made between children and families. Home studies also help to ensure that prospective homes comply with State and local laws for placement of adoptive children and that parents and families are educated about adoption and have the information they need to make the best decisions for their families about adoption. Use the following resources to learn more about the adoption home study process, including specific practices related to different types of adoptions.

Completing a Home Study
AdoptUSKids
Provides an overview of the home study process and explains how to prepare for one.

Home Study Requirements
U.S. Department of State
Describes home study criteria from an intercountry adoption perspective.

Self Assessment Tool
Children Awaiting Parents
Presents an assessment tool to help families determine if adoption is right for them.

(Back to Top)