What your state tests
Idaho uses the ISAT (Idaho Standards Achievement Test), built on Smarter Balanced, for ELA and math in grades 3–8 and grade 10, plus ISAT Science. Idaho also offers a college-entrance test (SAT, with ACT options) in grade 11. Run by the Idaho State Department of Education.
Which tests, which grades
- ISAT ELA & MathGrades 3–8 and grade 10 (computer-adaptive with a performance task)
- ISAT ScienceScience in grades 5, 8, and 11
- College-entrance test (grade 11)A free SAT (with ACT options) for juniors
- IDAAAlternate assessment for eligible students
Format & subjects
ISAT is computer-adaptive; the grade-11 SAT follows the national digital SAT format.
Is passing required to graduate?
No test-pass gate. Idaho doesn't require passing a state test to graduate; students complete course and credit requirements (and take a college-entrance test). The grade-11 SAT provides a college-usable score.
How it's scored
ISAT reports four levels (Level 3+ meets standard); the grade-11 SAT is scored 400–1600.
Testing windows
ISAT is given in a spring window; the grade-11 SAT is also administered in spring.
How to prepare
- SAT prep for grade 11Our SAT guide and free Khan Academy Official SAT Practice apply
- ISAT practiceThe state provides free practice tests for the computer-adaptive 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 Idaho's accountability and school reporting, guide instruction, and — via the grade-11 SAT — give students a college-usable score.
Key facts
- SystemISAT (Smarter Balanced)
- Grades3–8 and 10 (ELA/Math)
- ScienceISAT Science (gr 5, 8, 11)
- High schoolFree SAT (grade 11)
- AgencyIdaho State Dept. of Education
Where to learn more
Confirm current details with the official source and your district: