What your state tests
Delaware's testing is DeSSA (Delaware System of Student Assessments): the Smarter Balanced ELA and math tests in grades 3–8, a science test, and the SAT in grade 11 (given free during the school day). Run by the Delaware Department of Education. There's no exit-exam gate.
Which tests, which grades
- Smarter Balanced — ELA & MathGrades 3–8 (computer-adaptive with a performance task)
- Science (DeSSA)Grades 5, 8, and 10
- SAT (grade 11)A free, in-school SAT — a real, college-usable score
- DLMAlternate assessment for eligible students
Format & subjects
Smarter Balanced is computer-adaptive; the grade-11 SAT follows the national digital SAT format.
Is passing required to graduate?
No exit-exam gate. Delaware doesn't require passing a state test to graduate; students complete course and credit requirements. The free grade-11 SAT provides a college-usable score.
How it's scored
Smarter Balanced reports four levels (Level 3+ meets standard); the grade-11 SAT is scored 400–1600.
Testing windows
Testing runs in a spring window set statewide.
How to prepare
- SAT prep for grade 11Our SAT guide and free Khan Academy Official SAT Practice apply to the grade-11 test
- State practice testsThe state provides free practice tests matching the real 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 Delaware's accountability and school reporting, guide instruction, and — via the free grade-11 SAT — support college access.
Key facts
- Grades 3–8Smarter Balanced (DeSSA)
- ScienceGrades 5, 8, 10
- High schoolFree SAT (grade 11)
- Exit examNone
- AgencyDelaware Dept. of Education
Where to learn more
Confirm current details with the official source and your district: