What your state tests
Oregon's tests are the OSAS (Oregon Statewide Assessment System): Smarter Balanced for ELA and math and the Oregon Science test. Oregon suspended its “Essential Skills” graduation-test requirement, so students don't need to pass a state test to graduate. Run by the Oregon Department of Education.
Which tests, which grades
- Smarter Balanced — ELA & MathGrades 3–8 and grade 11 (computer-adaptive with a performance task)
- Oregon Science AssessmentScience in grades 5, 8, and 11
- ORExtAlternate assessment for eligible students
Format & subjects
Smarter Balanced is computer-adaptive with a performance task; the science test is computer-based.
Is passing required to graduate?
No test-pass gate. Oregon does not require passing a state assessment to graduate (the former Essential Skills requirement is suspended). Students earn a diploma by meeting credit and course requirements set by the state and district.
How it's scored
Smarter Balanced reports four levels (Level 3+ meets standard); the science test reports achievement levels.
Testing windows
OSAS testing runs in a spring window for ELA, math, and science, scheduled by each district.
How to prepare
- Practice & training testsODE provides free practice tests for the computer-adaptive format
- Apply skillsSmarter Balanced rewards reasoning across standards
Participation & opting out
Oregon gives parents broad opt-out rights — a parent may annually excuse their child from the ELA and math tests. Ask your district about the form and timeline.
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 accountability and school reporting and guide instruction; they are not used to gate graduation.
Key facts
- SystemOSAS
- ELA/MathSmarter Balanced (gr 3–8, 11)
- ScienceOregon Science (gr 5, 8, 11)
- GraduationNo test-pass requirement (Essential Skills suspended)
- Opt-outBroad parent rights
- AgencyOregon Dept. of Education
Where to learn more
Confirm current details with the official source and your district: