Assessment

This is the official announcement of tests, including test forms and delivery formats, determined to be suitable for use in the NRS. Here are links to the most recent Federal Register notices:

• 05/08/2025 https://www.federalregister.gov/d/2025-07974
• 12/12/2024 https://www.federalregister.gov/d/2024-29300
• 06/20/2024 https://www.federalregister.gov/d/2024-13426
• List of all currently approved tests and their expiration date

A quick reference to current test benchmarks for educational functioning levels.

Provides the approval periods of tests determined to be suitable for use in the National Reporting System for adult education.

The educational functioning level (EFL) descriptors for English as a second language (ESL) are intended to guide assessment for English learners. This NRS Tips will help you better understand the EFL descriptors for ESL that align with the English Language Proficiency (ELP) Standards for Adult Education (AE). The tip sheet includes information on the key features of the EFL descriptors for ESL and provides background information on why and how the descriptors were developed.

A shift to new assessments is more than simply a procedural change, and thoughtful planning and reflection are needed for a smooth and successful transition when states consider implementing assessments approved for use with the National Reporting System (NRS) that they have not used before. This resource is designed as a guide to support states in updating their assessment policy, developing their plan for disseminating related information and implementing the policy, and preparing their data system and local program staff for the change.

All states must submit annually an assessment policy to DAEL that meets NRS requirements. This guide for state staff describes the key topics and information that must go into this policy.