What grades take the Smarter Balanced Assessment?
Rachel Newton
Updated on April 08, 2026
The Smarter Balanced tests are given annually in math and English language arts in grades 3-8 and are structured to be taken online for a more interactive test experience. The tests are also designed to provide educators with a deeper understanding of how students learn.
Accordingly, what grade do you take the SBAC?
Each spring California students in grades three through eight and grade eleven take the Smarter Balanced Summative Assessments in English language arts/literacy (ELA) and mathematics.
Likewise, do colleges look at your SBAC scores? According to RHS Counselor Robyn Pasco, colleges won't base admission on the scores of a student's CAASPP test, but rather their potential placement in higher education courses.
Then, what is the purpose of the Smarter Balanced test?
The Smarter Balanced Assessment System utilizes computer based tests and performance tasks that allow students to show what they know and are able to do.
How Are Smarter Balanced tests scored?
Scaled Scores
A scaled score is the student's overall numerical score. These scores fall on a continuous scale (from approximately 2000 to 3000) that increases across grade levels. Scaled scores can be used to illustrate students' current level of achievement and their growth over time.
Related Question Answers
What is the highest SBAC score?
Smarter Balanced Scale Score Ranges| Grade | Min Scale Score | Max Scale Score |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 2114 | 2623 |
| 4 | 2131 | 2663 |
| 5 | 2201 | 2701 |
| 6 | 2210 | 2724 |