What your state tests
Wisconsin uses the Wisconsin Forward Exam in grades 3–8 and the ACT suite in high school — PreACT (grades 9 and 10) and the ACT (grade 11), plus ACT WorkKeys. Run by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI). Wisconsin also has a civics test graduation requirement.
Which tests, which grades
- Forward Exam (grades 3–8)English language arts and mathematics; science and social studies at grades 4 and 8
- PreACT (grades 9 & 10)College-readiness practice testing
- ACT (grade 11)The statewide high-school test — a real, college-usable score
- DLMAlternate assessment for eligible students
Format & subjects
The Forward Exam is online; the grade-11 ACT follows the national ACT format.
Is passing required to graduate?
No exit-exam gate on the Forward Exam or ACT. Wisconsin requires passing a civics test (based on the U.S. citizenship questions) to graduate, plus completing course and credit requirements set by the district.
How it's scored
The Forward Exam reports four levels (Below Basic, Basic, Proficient, Advanced); the grade-11 ACT is scored 1–36.
Testing windows
The Forward Exam and the ACT suite are given in a spring window set by each district.
How to prepare
- ACT prep for grade 11Our ACT guide and free official ACT practice apply to the grade-11 test
- Forward Exam practiceDPI provides sample items matching the online format
Participation & opting out
Students in tested grades participate; Wisconsin allows parents to opt their child out of the Forward Exam (and the college-entrance tests in some cases). Ask your district.
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 Wisconsin's school report cards and accountability, guide instruction, and — via the grade-11 ACT — give students a college-usable score.
Key facts
- Grades 3–8Forward Exam
- High schoolPreACT (9, 10) & ACT (11)
- CivicsCivics test required to graduate
- Exit examNone
- AgencyWisconsin DPI
Where to learn more
Confirm current details with the official source and your district: