What your state tests
Arizona uses AASA (Arizona's Academic Standards Assessment) in grades 3–8 for ELA and math, the AzSCI science test, and the ACT in grade 11. Run by the Arizona Department of Education. Arizona also requires the Arizona Civics Test for graduation.
Which tests, which grades
- AASA (grades 3–8)English language arts and mathematics
- AzSCI (Science)Science in grades 5, 8, and once in high school (grade 11)
- ACT (grade 11)The statewide high-school test — a real, college-usable score
- MSAAAlternate assessment for eligible students
Format & subjects
AASA and AzSCI are online; the grade-11 ACT follows the national ACT format.
Is passing required to graduate?
No exit-exam gate on AASA or the ACT. Arizona requires passing the Arizona Civics Test (based on the U.S. citizenship questions) to graduate, plus completing course and credit requirements set by the district.
How it's scored
AASA reports performance levels (Minimally, Partially, Proficient, Highly Proficient); the grade-11 ACT is scored 1–36.
Testing windows
AASA, AzSCI, 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 to the grade-11 test
- AASA practiceADE provides practice tests matching the online format
Participation & opting out
Students in tested grades participate. Ask your district about make-up windows and any questions.
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 Arizona's A–F school letter grades and accountability, guide instruction, and — via the grade-11 ACT — give students a college-usable score.
Key facts
- Grades 3–8AASA (ELA & Math)
- ScienceAzSCI (gr 5, 8, 11)
- High schoolACT (grade 11)
- CivicsArizona Civics Test required
- Exit examNone
- AgencyArizona Dept. of Education
Where to learn more
Confirm current details with the official source and your district: