What your state tests
Rhode Island uses RICAS (the Rhode Island Comprehensive Assessment System) for ELA and math in grades 3–8, the NGSA science test, and the PSAT (grade 10) and SAT (grade 11). Run by the Rhode Island Department of Education. There's currently no exit-exam gate (Rhode Island is moving toward readiness-based graduation requirements).
Which tests, which grades
- RICAS (grades 3–8)English language arts and mathematics
- Next-Generation Science Assessment (NGSA)Science in grades 5, 8, and 11
- PSAT (grade 10) & SAT (grade 11)College-readiness testing — the grade-11 SAT gives a college-usable score
- DLMAlternate assessment for eligible students
Format & subjects
RICAS and NGSA are online; the grade-11 SAT follows the national digital SAT format.
Is passing required to graduate?
No exit-exam gate currently. Rhode Island is phasing in readiness-based graduation requirements; students complete course and credit requirements. The grade-11 SAT provides a college-usable score. Confirm your district's current diploma requirements.
How it's scored
RICAS reports performance levels; the grade-11 SAT is scored 400–1600.
Testing windows
Testing runs in a spring window set statewide.
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 Rhode Island's accountability and school reporting, guide instruction, and — via the grade-11 SAT — support college access.
Key facts
- Grades 3–8RICAS (ELA & Math)
- ScienceNGSA (gr 5, 8, 11)
- High schoolPSAT (10) & SAT (11)
- Exit examNone (readiness-based grad phasing in)
- AgencyRI Dept. of Education
Where to learn more
Confirm current details with the official source and your district: