# State Assessment — Definition & Explanation

> From the SchoolBrowse Education Glossary.
> HTML version: https://schoolbrowse.com/glossary/state-assessment

**In short:** Standardized tests required by states to measure student achievement and hold schools accountable under federal law.
**State assessments** are standardized tests required by states to measure student achievement in core subjects. Under federal law, states must test students in reading/language arts and math in grades 3-8 and once in high school, plus science at certain grades.

## Purpose and Use

State assessments measure student proficiency against state standards, evaluate school and district performance, fulfill federal accountability requirements, and identify achievement gaps. Results may affect school ratings, funding, and intervention requirements.

## Opt-Out Considerations

Some states allow parents to opt out of state testing, though this may affect school participation rates used in accountability calculations. Requirements and consequences vary by state.

## Frequently asked questions

**Q: What are state assessments?**

State assessments are required standardized tests measuring student achievement against state standards, used for school accountability under federal law.
**Q: Can parents opt out of state testing?**

Policies vary by state. Some states permit opt-outs while others do not. Contact your state education department for specific policies.

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