What your state tests
North Dakota uses the NDSA (North Dakota State Assessment) in grades 3–8 and grade 10 for ELA and math (plus science), and many districts give the ACT in grade 11. Run by the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction. There's no exit-exam gate.
Which tests, which grades
- NDSA ELA & MathGrades 3–8 and grade 10
- NDSA ScienceScience at designated grades
- ACT (grade 11)Offered by many districts — a real, college-usable score
- NDSA AlternateFor eligible students
Format & subjects
NDSA is online with varied item types; the ACT follows the national ACT format.
Is passing required to graduate?
No exit-exam gate. North Dakota doesn't require passing a state test to graduate; districts set course and credit requirements.
How it's scored
NDSA reports achievement levels; the grade-11 ACT is scored 1–36.
Testing windows
NDSA is given in a spring window set by each district.
How to prepare
- Practice testsNDDPI provides practice materials matching the online format
- ACT prepOur ACT guide applies where the ACT is given
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 North Dakota's accountability and school reporting and guide instruction.
Key facts
- SystemNDSA
- Grades3–8 and 10 (ELA & Math)
- ScienceDesignated grades
- High schoolACT (grade 11, district option)
- AgencyND Dept. of Public Instruction
Where to learn more
Confirm current details with the official source and your district: