What your state tests
New Mexico uses the NM-MSSA (New Mexico Measures of Student Success and Achievement) in grades 3–8 for ELA and math, the NM-ASR science test, and the SAT in grade 11. Run by the New Mexico Public Education Department. There's no exit-exam gate.
Which tests, which grades
- NM-MSSA (grades 3–8)English language arts and mathematics
- NM-ASR (Science)Science in grades 5, 8, and 11
- SAT (grade 11)The statewide high-school test — a real, college-usable score
- NM-DLMAlternate assessment for eligible students
Format & subjects
NM-MSSA is online; the grade-11 SAT follows the national digital SAT format.
Is passing required to graduate?
No exit-exam gate. New Mexico doesn't require passing a state test to graduate; students complete course and credit requirements. The grade-11 SAT provides a college-usable score.
How it's scored
NM-MSSA reports performance levels; the grade-11 SAT is scored 400–1600.
Testing windows
Testing runs in a spring window set by each district.
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 New Mexico's accountability and school reporting, guide instruction, and — via the grade-11 SAT — give students a college-usable score.
Key facts
- Grades 3–8NM-MSSA (ELA & Math)
- ScienceNM-ASR (gr 5, 8, 11)
- High schoolSAT (grade 11)
- Exit examNone
- AgencyNM Public Education Department
Where to learn more
Confirm current details with the official source and your district: