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NAEP: The Nation’s Report Card Explained

The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), often called “The Nation’s Report Card,” is the only nationally representative assessment of what students in the United States know and can do in various subjects. It is administered by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).

Does My Child Take NAEP?

Possibly, but they will likely never know their individual score. NAEP uses a matrix sampling approach: small, randomly selected samples of students from schools around the country take portions of the test. No individual student takes the entire NAEP, and individual scores are not reported to students or parents. NAEP is designed to produce group-level data, not individual reports.

If your child’s school is selected to participate, you will receive a notification. Participation is generally not harmful or burdensome for students — the assessment is low-stakes from a student’s perspective.

What Does NAEP Measure?

NAEP assessments are conducted in grades 4, 8, and 12 in subjects including Reading, Mathematics, Science, Writing, U.S. History, Civics, Geography, Technology, and Engineering Literacy. The main NAEP (also called the Long-Term Trend NAEP) has tracked reading and math performance since the 1970s.

Why Does NAEP Matter for Parents?

While your child won’t receive an individual score, NAEP data is important for understanding the state of education in your child’s state and school district. NAEP results are publicly reported by state and large urban district, allowing direct comparisons. When your governor or school board discusses academic achievement trends, NAEP data is typically the evidence they are citing.

NAEP Proficiency Levels

NAEP reports results at four achievement levels:

  • Advanced: Superior performance
  • Proficient: Solid academic performance
  • Basic: Partial mastery of prerequisite knowledge and skills
  • Below Basic: Performance below the Basic level

Note: NAEP’s “Proficient” standard is considered rigorous and set above what many states define as “proficient” on their own state tests. Comparing your state’s test proficiency rates to NAEP proficiency rates can reveal meaningful differences.