I cannot speak for DYS because we have not applied, the test my DD took is not one they have their list and the portfolio route seems risky.
Just a note: the only risk you run is the potential waste of your time compiling the portfolio. There is no fee to apply, so there's nothing really ventured but your time. No risk. You might submit the test scores you have--even if they're not on the list--and in the portfolio that might be enough for them. The worst they'll say is "It's not enough." They always accept more material if what you send initially isn't sufficient. So it's not like you lose your one chance to get a child into DYS if you try and they say "no." <shrug>
We're homeschooling, and I got a *LOT* out of the testing for DS8 (tested when he was 5.5-6.5). I have a better grasp on how to teach him, how to address his learning needs, his strengths and weaknesses. His processing speed is very slow, and patience has never been my greatest virtue. Testing showed me that he's not just dawdling--he needs time to noodle over things. Now I yell less and plan more time for him, and things are going much more smoothly. Without testing, I'd probably still be frustrated and hurrying him along. This way is better!
I am positively champing at the bit for DS5 to turn 6 so he can take the WISC. The school is giving him some achievement testing in March, too. I don't know if DS5 is a DYS candidate, but regardless, I am really hoping that the test scores will help us know more about his needs. He's a spiky kid, and I have a terrible time figuring him out. Is he just a visual spatial learner? Does he have an LD? What is he really capable of? Sooooo many questions! I'm looking forward to getting some more info to help me.
DYS has been worth it for us for the social aspects and the insurance policy aspect of it (since we never know what we'll be doing a year ort two down the line), especially since the testing itself was so useful to us. Not everyone has that experience with testing, but we sure did!
If you can find a reasonably-priced tester and it's not going to bust your budget, I'd say do it.
