What your state tests
Alabama uses the ACAP (Alabama Comprehensive Assessment Program) Summative in grades 2–8, and the ACT in grade 11 (plus ACT WorkKeys). Alabama retired its former high-school graduation exam, so there's no exit-exam gate. Run by the Alabama State Department of Education.
Which tests, which grades
- ACAP (grades 2–8)English language arts and mathematics; science in grades 4–8
- ACT (grade 11)The statewide high-school test — a real, college-usable score
- ACT WorkKeysA career-readiness assessment for job skills
- ACAP AlternateFor eligible students with significant cognitive disabilities
Format & subjects
ACAP is online with varied item types; the grade-11 ACT follows the national ACT format.
Is passing required to graduate?
No exit-exam gate. Alabama doesn't require passing a state test to graduate; districts set course and credit requirements. The grade-11 ACT provides a college-usable score.
How it's scored
ACAP reports performance levels; the grade-11 ACT is scored 1–36.
Testing windows
ACAP and the ACT are given in a spring window set by each district.
How to prepare
- ACT prep for grade 11Our ACT guide and free official ACT practice apply
- ACAP practiceThe state provides practice resources matching the online format
Participation & opting out
Students in tested grades participate. Ask your district about make-up windows.
Accommodations & multilingual learners
Accommodations follow a student's IEP or 504 plan; eligible students take the state's alternate assessment. Multilingual learners take an English proficiency test (WIDA ACCESS or the state equivalent) and may receive designated supports.
Accountability & promotion
Results feed Alabama's accountability and A–F report cards, guide instruction, and — via the grade-11 ACT — give students a college-usable score.
Key facts
- Grades 2–8ACAP
- High schoolACT (grade 11) + WorkKeys
- Exit examNone (old grad exam retired)
- AgencyAlabama State Dept. of Education
Where to learn more
Confirm current details with the official source and your district: