What your state tests
Hawaii uses the Smarter Balanced Assessment for ELA and math in grades 3–8 and grade 11, plus the HSA-Science test. Run by the Hawaii Department of Education (the state's single statewide district). There's no exit-exam gate.
Which tests, which grades
- Smarter Balanced — ELA & MathGrades 3–8 and grade 11 (computer-adaptive with a performance task)
- HSA-ScienceScience in grades 5, 8, and once in high school
- HSA-AltAlternate assessment for eligible students
Format & subjects
Smarter Balanced is computer-adaptive with a performance task; the science test is computer-based.
Is passing required to graduate?
No exit-exam gate. Hawaii doesn't require passing a state test to graduate; students complete the state's course and credit requirements (Board of Education diploma requirements).
How it's scored
Smarter Balanced reports four levels (Level 3+ meets standard); the science test reports achievement levels.
Testing windows
Testing runs in a spring window set statewide.
How to prepare
- Practice & training testsThe state provides free practice tests for the computer-adaptive format
- Apply skillsSmarter Balanced rewards reasoning across standards
Participation & opting out
Students in tested grades participate. Ask your school 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 Hawaii's accountability (Strive HI) and school reporting and guide instruction; they don't gate graduation.
Key facts
- ELA/MathSmarter Balanced (grades 3–8, 11)
- ScienceHSA-Science (gr 5, 8, HS)
- Exit examNone
- AgencyHawaii Dept. of Education
Where to learn more
Confirm current details with the official source and your district: