What your state tests
Montana uses the Smarter Balanced assessment for ELA and math in grades 3–8, the Montana Science Assessment (MSA), and the ACT with Writing in grade 11. Run by the Montana Office of Public Instruction (OPI). There's no exit-exam gate.
Which tests, which grades
- Smarter Balanced — ELA & MathGrades 3–8 (computer-adaptive with a performance task)
- Montana Science Assessment (MSA)Science in grades 5, 8, and once in high school
- ACT with Writing (grade 11)The statewide high-school test — a real, college-usable score
- Montana AlternateFor eligible students
Format & subjects
Smarter Balanced is computer-adaptive; the grade-11 ACT follows the national ACT format (with Writing).
Is passing required to graduate?
No exit-exam gate. Montana 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
Smarter Balanced reports four levels (Level 3+ meets standard); the grade-11 ACT is scored 1–36.
Testing windows
Testing runs in a spring window set by each district.
How to prepare
- ACT prep for grade 11Our ACT guide and free official ACT practice apply
- State practice testsThe state provides free practice materials 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 Montana's accountability and school reporting, guide instruction, and — via the grade-11 ACT — give students a college-usable score.
Key facts
- Grades 3–8Smarter Balanced (ELA & Math)
- ScienceMontana Science (gr 5, 8, HS)
- High schoolACT with Writing (grade 11)
- Exit examNone
- AgencyMontana OPI
Where to learn more
Confirm current details with the official source and your district: