What your state tests
Ohio uses Ohio's State Tests (OST) in grades 3–8 and End-of-Course (EOC) exams in high school. The old Ohio Graduation Test is retired; today high-schoolers earn “graduation points” from EOC exams (and can use ACT/SAT and other options) as part of Ohio's graduation requirements. Tests are aligned to the Ohio Learning Standards and run by the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce.
Which tests, which grades
- Ohio's State Tests (grades 3–8)English Language Arts and Mathematics each year; Science in grades 5 and 8
- End-of-Course exams (high school)Algebra I (or Integrated Math I), Geometry (or Integrated Math II), English II, Biology, American History, and American Government
- Ohio's Alternate Assessment (AASCD)For eligible students with significant cognitive disabilities
- Ohio English Language Proficiency (OELPA)For multilingual/English learners
Format & subjects
OST and EOC exams are computer-based (with paper for accommodations), combining multiple-choice and open-ended items. EOCs are subject end-of-course tests taken when students finish the matching course.
Is passing required to graduate?
Yes — through graduation points and pathways. Ohio students earn graduation points from the seven EOC exams and must reach a required total, or meet the requirement through alternate demonstrations — a qualifying ACT/SAT score, an industry credential plus a WorkKeys score, or other approved options. Students also earn diploma seals. The Third Grade Reading Guarantee is a separate early-grades reading promotion policy.
How it's scored
OST and EOC results report performance levels (Limited, Basic, Proficient, Accelerated, Advanced). At the high-school level, each EOC contributes graduation points toward the total needed to graduate. Reports show subject strengths and gaps.
Testing windows
Grades 3–8 tests are given in a spring window (the grade-3 ELA test also has a fall window tied to the reading guarantee). EOCs run in fall, spring, and summer windows as students complete courses. Exact dates are set by the state and district.
How to prepare
- Practice tests & released itemsThe state provides practice tests and released questions matching the real online format
- Course-aligned reviewEOCs test the specific course content
- Grade-3 reading supportFor the Third Grade Reading Guarantee, focus on reading fluency and comprehension early
Participation & opting out
Students in tested grades and courses participate. Ohio does not offer a formal statewide opt-out; ask your district about make-up windows.
Accommodations & multilingual learners
Accommodations follow a student's IEP or 504 plan; eligible students take the alternate assessment (AASCD). Multilingual learners take the OELPA and may receive designated supports.
Accountability & promotion
Results drive Ohio's school report cards and accountability, inform the Third Grade Reading Guarantee promotion policy, and — via EOC graduation points — count toward high-school graduation.
Key facts
- Grades 3–8Ohio's State Tests (ELA, Math; Science 5 & 8)
- High school7 End-of-Course exams → graduation points
- GradEarn points, or use ACT/SAT/credential pathways
- Grade 3Third Grade Reading Guarantee
- AgencyOhio Dept. of Education & Workforce
Where to learn more
Confirm current details with the official source and your district: