List Of Standardized Tests By State

Navigating the world of standardized tests can feel like traversing a complex maze, especially when requirements vary from state to state. As students progress through their academic journey, they encounter various assessments designed to measure their knowledge and skills. Understanding which standardized tests are required in each state is crucial for students, parents, and educators alike. This comprehensive guide breaks down the standardized testing landscape by state, providing a detailed overview of the assessments used for different grade levels and purposes.

Understanding Standardized Tests

Standardized tests are assessments administered and scored in a consistent, or "standard," manner. They are designed to evaluate a student's performance against a uniform standard, allowing for comparisons across different schools, districts, and states. These tests serve multiple purposes, including:

Measuring Academic Achievement: Assessing what students have learned in specific subjects.
Evaluating School Performance: Holding schools accountable for student outcomes.
Guiding Curriculum Development: Informing instructional practices and curriculum adjustments.
Making Placement Decisions: Determining appropriate academic pathways for students.
Meeting Federal Requirements: Complying with federal education mandates.

The types of standardized tests vary widely, ranging from assessments aligned with state-specific standards to nationally recognized exams like the SAT and ACT. States often use a combination of these tests to meet their educational goals and accountability requirements.

Standardized Tests by State: A Comprehensive Overview

The following section provides a state-by-state breakdown of the standardized tests commonly used in public schools. Please note that testing policies can change, so it’s always best to check with your state's Department of Education for the most up-to-date information.

Alabama

Alabama Comprehensive Assessment Program (ACAP): This is the primary standardized test used in Alabama, administered to students in grades 2-8 for reading and math, and in grades 5 and 8 for science. It aligns with the Alabama Course of Study Standards.
ACT with Writing: All 11th-grade students in Alabama are required to take the ACT with Writing. This college entrance exam is used to assess readiness for higher education.
Alabama Alternate Assessment (AAA): For students with significant cognitive disabilities, this alternate assessment is used to measure their academic progress.

Alaska

Alaska System of Academic Readiness (AK STAR): AK STAR is administered to students in grades 3-9 for English Language Arts (ELA) and math, and in grades 5, 8, and 10 for science.
ACT: Alaska requires all 11th-grade students to take the ACT, providing them with a college readiness assessment.
Alternate Assessment: An alternate assessment is available for students with disabilities who cannot participate in the general assessments.

Arizona

Arizona's Academic Standards Assessment (AASA): AASA is administered to students in grades 3-8 for ELA and math, and in grades 5, 8, and 11 for science.
AzSCI: A science assessment given to students in grades 5, 8, and 11 to evaluate their understanding of scientific concepts and principles.
ACT or SAT: Arizona allows high school students to take either the ACT or SAT to demonstrate college readiness.
Alternate Assessment: Students with significant cognitive disabilities participate in an alternate assessment aligned with the state's standards.

Arkansas

ACT Aspire: Arkansas uses the ACT Aspire assessment system for students in grades 3-10, covering ELA, math, reading, science, and writing.
ACT: All 11th-grade students in Arkansas are required to take the ACT, which serves as both a state assessment and a college entrance exam.
Alternate Assessment: Students with significant cognitive disabilities participate in an alternate assessment aligned with the state's standards.

California

California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP): CAASPP includes the Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium (SBAC) tests for ELA and math in grades 3-8 and 11. It also includes the California Science Test (CAST) in grades 5, 8, and once in high school (grades 10-12).
English Language Proficiency Assessments for California (ELPAC): This test assesses the English language proficiency of students whose primary language is not English.
Alternate Assessment: An alternate assessment is available for students with disabilities who cannot participate in the general assessments.

Colorado

Colorado Measures of Academic Success (CMAS): CMAS is administered to students in grades 3-8 for ELA and math, and in grades 5, 8, and 11 for science.
PSAT and SAT: Colorado provides the PSAT to 9th and 10th graders and the SAT to 11th graders to assess college readiness.
Alternate Assessment: Students with significant cognitive disabilities participate in an alternate assessment aligned with the state's standards.

Connecticut

Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium (SBAC): Connecticut uses the SBAC assessments for ELA and math in grades 3-8.
Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS): Science assessments are administered in grades 5, 8, and 11, aligning with the NGSS standards.
SAT: Connecticut provides the SAT to all 11th-grade students to assess college readiness.
Alternate Assessment: An alternate assessment is available for students with disabilities who cannot participate in the general assessments.

Delaware

Delaware Comprehensive Assessment System (DCAS): DCAS includes assessments for ELA and math in grades 3-8, and science in grades 5, 8, and 10.
SAT: Delaware provides the SAT to all 11th-grade students to assess college readiness.
Alternate Assessment: Students with significant cognitive disabilities participate in an alternate assessment aligned with the state's standards.

Florida

Florida Standards Assessments (FSA): FSA is used for ELA in grades 3-10 and math in grades 3-8.
Statewide Science Assessment: Science assessments are administered in grades 5 and 8, as well as Biology 1 End-of-Course (EOC) exam.
End-of-Course (EOC) Exams: Florida uses EOC exams for subjects like Algebra 1, Geometry, and U.S. History.
Alternate Assessment: An alternate assessment is available for students with disabilities who cannot participate in the general assessments.

Georgia

Georgia Milestones Assessment System: This comprehensive assessment system covers ELA and math in grades 3-8, science in grades 5 and 8, and social studies in grade 8. It also includes EOC exams for high school courses like Algebra I, Geometry, Biology, U.S. History, and American Literature.
Alternate Assessment: Students with significant cognitive disabilities participate in an alternate assessment aligned with the state's standards.

Hawaii

Hawaii State Assessment (HSA): HSA includes assessments for ELA and math in grades 3-8 and 11, and science in grades 5, 8, and 11.
Alternate Assessment: An alternate assessment is available for students with disabilities who cannot participate in the general assessments.

Idaho

Idaho Standards Achievement Tests (ISAT): ISAT is administered to students in grades 3-8 and 10 for ELA and math, and in grades 5, 8, and 11 for science.
SAT: Idaho provides the SAT to all 11th-grade students to assess college readiness.
Alternate Assessment: Students with significant cognitive disabilities participate in an alternate assessment aligned with the state's standards.

Illinois

Illinois Assessment of Readiness (IAR): IAR is used for ELA and math in grades 3-8.
Illinois Science Assessment (ISA): Science assessments are administered in grades 5, 8, and 11.
SAT: Illinois provides the SAT to all 11th-grade students to assess college readiness.
Alternate Assessment: An alternate assessment is available for students with disabilities who cannot participate in the general assessments.

Indiana

Indiana Learning Evaluation Assessment Readiness (ILEARN): ILEARN is administered to students in grades 3-8 for ELA and math, and in grades 5 and 8 for science.
IREAD-3: This assessment is given to 3rd-grade students to measure reading proficiency.
Alternate Assessment: Students with significant cognitive disabilities participate in an alternate assessment aligned with the state's standards.

Iowa

Iowa Statewide Assessment of Student Progress (ISASP): ISASP is used for ELA and math in grades 3-11, and science in grades 5, 8, and 10.
Alternate Assessment: An alternate assessment is available for students with disabilities who cannot participate in the general assessments.

Kansas

Kansas Assessment Program (KAP): KAP includes assessments for ELA and math in grades 3-8 and 10, and science in grades 5, 8, and 11.
Alternate Assessment: Students with significant cognitive disabilities participate in an alternate assessment aligned with the state's standards.

Kentucky

Kentucky Summative Assessment (KSA): KSA is administered to students in grades 3-8 for ELA and math, and in grades 5, 8, and 11 for science and social studies.
ACT: Kentucky requires all 11th-grade students to take the ACT, providing them with a college readiness assessment.
Alternate Assessment: An alternate assessment is available for students with disabilities who cannot participate in the general assessments.

Louisiana

Louisiana Educational Assessment Program (LEAP 2025): LEAP 2025 is used for ELA and math in grades 3-8, and science and social studies in grades 3-8. High school students take EOC exams in subjects like Algebra I, Geometry, Biology, and U.S. History.
ACT: Louisiana requires all 11th-grade students to take the ACT, which serves as both a state assessment and a college entrance exam.
Alternate Assessment: Students with significant cognitive disabilities participate in an alternate assessment aligned with the state's standards.

Maine

Maine Educational Assessment (MEA): MEA is administered to students in grades 3-8 for ELA and math, and in grades 5, 8, and 11 for science.
SAT: Maine provides the SAT to all 11th-grade students to assess college readiness.
Alternate Assessment: An alternate assessment is available for students with disabilities who cannot participate in the general assessments.

Maryland

Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP): MCAP includes assessments for ELA and math in grades 3-8, and science in grades 5 and 8, and high school.
Alternate Assessment: Students with significant cognitive disabilities participate in an alternate assessment aligned with the state's standards.

Massachusetts

Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS): MCAS is used for ELA and math in grades 3-8 and 10, and science in grades 5, 8, and high school.
Alternate Assessment: An alternate assessment is available for students with disabilities who cannot participate in the general assessments.

Michigan

Michigan Student Test of Educational Progress (M-STEP): M-STEP is administered to students in grades 3-8 for ELA and math, and in grades 5, 8, and 11 for science and social studies.
Alternate Assessment: Students with significant cognitive disabilities participate in an alternate assessment aligned with the state's standards.

Minnesota

Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCA): MCA is used for ELA and math in grades 3-8 and 10, and science in grades 5, 8, and high school.
Alternate Assessment: An alternate assessment is available for students with disabilities who cannot participate in the general assessments.

Mississippi

Mississippi Academic Assessment Program (MAAP): MAAP includes assessments for ELA and math in grades 3-8, and science in grades 5 and 8, and high school.
ACT: Mississippi requires all 11th-grade students to take the ACT, which serves as both a state assessment and a college entrance exam.
Alternate Assessment: Students with significant cognitive disabilities participate in an alternate assessment aligned with the state's standards.

Missouri

Missouri Assessment Program (MAP): MAP is administered to students in grades 3-8 for ELA and math, and science in grades 5 and 8, and high school.
Alternate Assessment: Students with significant cognitive disabilities participate in an alternate assessment aligned with the state's standards.

Montana

Montana Comprehensive Assessment System (MontCAS): MontCAS includes assessments for ELA and math in grades 3-8 and 11, and science in grades 5, 8, and 11.
Alternate Assessment: An alternate assessment is available for students with disabilities who cannot participate in the general assessments.

Nebraska

Nebraska Student-Centered Assessment System (NSCAS): NSCAS is used for ELA and math in grades 3-8, and science in grades 5, 8, and 11.
ACT: Nebraska provides the ACT to all 11th-grade students to assess college readiness.
Alternate Assessment: Students with significant cognitive disabilities participate in an alternate assessment aligned with the state's standards.

Nevada

Nevada Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium (SBAC): Nevada uses the SBAC assessments for ELA and math in grades 3-8 and 11, and science in grades 5, 8, and high school.
Alternate Assessment: An alternate assessment is available for students with disabilities who cannot participate in the general assessments.

New Hampshire

Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium (SBAC): New Hampshire uses the SBAC assessments for ELA and math in grades 3-8.
Statewide Science Assessment: Science assessments are administered in grades 5, 8, and 11.
Alternate Assessment: Students with significant cognitive disabilities participate in an alternate assessment aligned with the state's standards.

New Jersey

New Jersey Student Learning Assessment (NJSLA): NJSLA includes assessments for ELA and math in grades 3-8, and science in grades 5, 8, and 11.
Alternate Assessment: An alternate assessment is available for students with disabilities who cannot participate in the general assessments.

New Mexico

New Mexico Measures of Student Success and Achievement (NMMSSA): NMMSSA is administered to students in grades 3-8 for ELA and math, and science in grades 5, 8, and 11.
Alternate Assessment: Students with significant cognitive disabilities participate in an alternate assessment aligned with the state's standards.

New York

New York State Testing Program: This program includes assessments for ELA and math in grades 3-8, and science in grades 4 and 8. High school students take Regents Exams in various subjects.
Alternate Assessment: An alternate assessment is available for students with disabilities who cannot participate in the general assessments.

North Carolina

North Carolina End-of-Grade (EOG) Tests: EOG tests are administered to students in grades 3-8 for ELA and math, and science in grades 5 and 8. High school students take End-of-Course (EOC) exams in subjects like Algebra I, Biology, and English II.
ACT: North Carolina provides the ACT to all 11th-grade students to assess college readiness.
Alternate Assessment: Students with significant cognitive disabilities participate in an alternate assessment aligned with the state's standards.

North Dakota

North Dakota State Assessment: This assessment is used for ELA and math in grades 3-8, and science in grades 4 and 10.
Alternate Assessment: An alternate assessment is available for students with disabilities who cannot participate in the general assessments.

Ohio

Ohio's State Tests: These tests are administered to students in grades 3-8 for ELA and math, and science in grades 5 and 8, and high school.
Alternate Assessment: Students with significant cognitive disabilities participate in an alternate assessment aligned with the state's standards.

Oklahoma

Oklahoma School Testing Program (OSTP): OSTP includes assessments for ELA and math in grades 3-8, and science in grades 5 and 8, and high school.
ACT: Oklahoma provides the ACT to all 11th-grade students to assess college readiness.
Alternate Assessment: Students with significant cognitive disabilities participate in an alternate assessment aligned with the state's standards.

Oregon

Oregon Statewide Assessment System: This system includes assessments for ELA and math in grades 3-8 and 11, and science in grades 5, 8, and 11.
Alternate Assessment: An alternate assessment is available for students with disabilities who cannot participate in the general assessments.

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA): PSSA is used for ELA and math in grades 3-8, and science in grades 4 and 8. High school students take Keystone Exams in Algebra I, Biology, and Literature.
Alternate Assessment: Students with significant cognitive disabilities participate in an alternate assessment aligned with the state's standards.

Rhode Island

Rhode Island Comprehensive Assessment System (RICAS): RICAS is administered to students in grades 3-8 for ELA and math, and science in grades 5, 8, and 11.
SAT: Rhode Island provides the SAT to all 11th-grade students to assess college readiness.
Alternate Assessment: An alternate assessment is available for students with disabilities who cannot participate in the general assessments.

South Carolina

South Carolina College-and Career-Ready Assessments (SC READY): SC READY is used for ELA and math in grades 3-8, and science in grades 4 and 6. High school students take End-of-Course (EOC) exams in subjects like Algebra I and English I.
ACT: South Carolina provides the ACT to all 11th-grade students to assess college readiness.
Alternate Assessment: Students with significant cognitive disabilities participate in an alternate assessment aligned with the state's standards.

South Dakota

Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium (SBAC): South Dakota uses the SBAC assessments for ELA and math in grades 3-8 and 11.
Dakota STEP: Assesses Science in grades 5, 8, and 11.
Alternate Assessment: An alternate assessment is available for students with disabilities who cannot participate in the general assessments.

Tennessee

Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program (TCAP): TCAP includes assessments for ELA and math in grades 3-8, and science in grades 5 and 8. High school students take End-of-Course (EOC) exams in subjects like Algebra I, Geometry, Biology, and English II.
ACT: Tennessee provides the ACT to all 11th-grade students to assess college readiness.
Alternate Assessment: Students with significant cognitive disabilities participate in an alternate assessment aligned with the state's standards.

Texas

State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR): STAAR is administered to students in grades 3-8 for ELA and math, and science in grades 5 and 8, and social studies in grade 8. High school students take End-of-Course (EOC) exams in subjects like Algebra I, Biology, and U.S. History.
Alternate Assessment: Students with significant cognitive disabilities participate in an alternate assessment aligned with the state's standards.

Utah

Utah Aspire Plus: Utah Aspire Plus is used for ELA and math in grades 3-8 and 10, and science in grades 4, 7, and 10.
ACT: Utah provides the ACT to all 11th-grade students to assess college readiness.
Alternate Assessment: Students with significant cognitive disabilities participate in an alternate assessment aligned with the state's standards.

Vermont

Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium (SBAC): Vermont uses the SBAC assessments for ELA and math in grades 3-8 and 11.
Alternate Assessment: An alternate assessment is available for students with disabilities who cannot participate in the general assessments.

Virginia

Virginia Standards of Learning (SOL) Tests: SOL tests are administered to students in grades 3-8 for ELA and math, and science in grades 5 and 8, and social studies in grades 4 and 7. High school students take End-of-Course (EOC) exams in subjects like Algebra I, Biology, and English II.
Alternate Assessment: Students with significant cognitive disabilities participate in an alternate assessment aligned with the state's standards.

Washington

Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium (SBAC): Washington uses the SBAC assessments for ELA and math in grades 3-8 and 11.
Washington Comprehensive Assessment Program (WCAS): The WCAS assesses science in grades 5, 8, and 11.
Alternate Assessment: An alternate assessment is available for students with disabilities who cannot participate in the general assessments.

West Virginia

West Virginia General Summative Assessment (WVGSA): WVGSA includes assessments for ELA and math in grades 3-8 and 11, and science in grades 5, 8, and 11.
ACT: West Virginia provides the ACT to all 11th-grade students to assess college readiness.
Alternate Assessment: Students with significant cognitive disabilities participate in an alternate assessment aligned with the state's standards.

Wisconsin

Wisconsin Forward Exam: The Wisconsin Forward Exam is used for ELA and math in grades 3-8, science in grades 4 and 8, and social studies in grades 4, 8, and 10.
ACT: Wisconsin provides the ACT to all 11th-grade students to assess college readiness.
Alternate Assessment: Students with significant cognitive disabilities participate in an alternate assessment aligned with the state's standards.

Wyoming

Wyoming Test of Proficiency and Progress (WyTOPP): WyTOPP is administered to students in grades 3-8 for ELA and math, and science in grades 4, 8, and 11.
ACT: Wyoming provides the ACT to all 11th-grade students to assess college readiness.
Alternate Assessment: Students with significant cognitive disabilities participate in an alternate assessment aligned with the state's standards.

Recent Trends and Developments

Several trends are shaping the landscape of standardized testing:

Emphasis on College and Career Readiness: Many states are aligning their assessments with college and career readiness standards, ensuring students are prepared for post-secondary education and the workforce.
Increased Use of Technology: Computer-based testing is becoming more prevalent, allowing for more interactive and adaptive assessments.
Focus on Deeper Learning: Assessments are increasingly designed to measure higher-order thinking skills, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity.
Reduced Testing Burden: Some states are exploring ways to reduce the amount of time students spend taking standardized tests, focusing on more meaningful assessments.

Tips and Expert Advice

Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with your state's testing policies and requirements by visiting the Department of Education website and consulting with school counselors.
Prepare Thoroughly: Familiarize yourself with the content and format of the standardized tests your child will be taking. Use practice tests and study guides to prepare effectively.
Support Your Child: Provide a supportive and encouraging environment for your child during the testing period. Help them manage stress and anxiety related to testing.
Advocate for Your Child: If you have concerns about your child's participation in standardized testing, advocate for their needs and explore alternative assessment options if appropriate.

FAQ

Q: How can I find out which standardized tests are required in my state?
- A: Visit your state's Department of Education website for the most up-to-date information on testing policies and requirements.
Q: What is the purpose of standardized tests?
- A: Standardized tests are used to measure academic achievement, evaluate school performance, guide curriculum development, make placement decisions, and meet federal requirements.
Q: What is an alternate assessment?
- A: An alternate assessment is designed for students with significant cognitive disabilities who cannot participate in the general assessments.
Q: How can I help my child prepare for standardized tests?
- A: Familiarize yourself with the content and format of the tests, use practice tests and study guides, and provide a supportive and encouraging environment for your child.

Conclusion

Standardized tests play a significant role in the education system, providing valuable data for students, schools, and policymakers. Understanding the specific tests required in each state is essential for navigating the complex world of assessment. By staying informed, preparing thoroughly, and advocating for your child's needs, you can ensure a positive and successful testing experience.

What are your thoughts on the current standardized testing landscape? Are you ready to take the next step in understanding your state's specific requirements?