What your state tests
Nevada uses the Smarter Balanced assessment for ELA and math in grades 3–8, the Nevada Science test, and the ACT in grade 11. Run by the Nevada Department of Education. There's no exit-exam gate (Nevada retired its old proficiency exams).
Which tests, which grades
- Smarter Balanced — ELA & MathGrades 3–8 (computer-adaptive with a performance task)
- Nevada ScienceScience in grades 5, 8, and once in high school
- ACT (grade 11)The statewide high-school test — a real, college-usable score
- Nevada AlternateFor eligible students
Format & subjects
Smarter Balanced is computer-adaptive; the grade-11 ACT follows the national ACT format.
Is passing required to graduate?
No exit-exam gate. Nevada doesn't require passing a state test to graduate; students complete course and credit requirements (and can pursue a College & Career Ready diploma). 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
- Smarter Balanced practiceThe state provides free practice and training tests
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 Nevada's accountability (the Nevada School Performance Framework) 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)
- ScienceNevada Science (gr 5, 8, HS)
- High schoolACT (grade 11)
- Exit examNone
- AgencyNevada Dept. of Education
Where to learn more
Confirm current details with the official source and your district: