What your state tests
South Dakota uses the Smarter Balanced assessment for ELA and math in grades 3–8 and grade 11, plus the South Dakota Science test. Run by the South Dakota Department of Education. There's no exit-exam gate.
Which tests, which grades
- Smarter Balanced — ELA & MathGrades 3–8 and grade 11 (computer-adaptive with a performance task)
- South Dakota ScienceGrades 5, 8, and 11
- SD AlternateFor eligible students
Format & subjects
Smarter Balanced is computer-adaptive; the science test is computer-based.
Is passing required to graduate?
No exit-exam gate. South Dakota doesn't require passing a state test to graduate; districts set course and credit requirements.
How it's scored
Smarter Balanced reports four levels (Level 3+ meets standard); the science test reports achievement levels.
Testing windows
Testing runs in a spring window set by each district.
How to prepare
- Practice & training testsThe state provides free practice tests for the computer-adaptive format
- Apply skillsSmarter Balanced rewards reasoning across standards
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 South Dakota's accountability and school reporting and guide instruction.
Key facts
- ELA/MathSmarter Balanced (grades 3–8, 11)
- ScienceSD Science (gr 5, 8, 11)
- Exit examNone
- AgencySouth Dakota Dept. of Education
Where to learn more
Confirm current details with the official source and your district: