Pennsylvania State Assessment System
The Pennsylvania State Assessment System is aligned with the PA Core Standards for reading, writing, and mathematics. English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics are assessed every grade from 3rd through 8th grades.  Science is assessed in 5th and 8th grades.

 

PSSA Testing 2025-2026
The PA Department of Education has established the testing dates listed below with schools setting their own testing schedules within those windows. Information about testing will be sent home from your child's school as testing dates approach.

 

2025-2026 PSSA Testing Windows
ELA PSSA	April 20 - April 24, 2026	Grades 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Math PSSA	April 27- May 1, 2026	Grades 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Science PSSA	April 27 - May 1, 2026	Grades 5 and 8
Make-up PSSA for ELA, Math, and Science	May 4 - May 8, 2026	Grades 3-8

 

 

 

Keystone Exams
Keystone Exams are end-of-course assessments that are administered as students are completing courses related to the three Keystone Exams--Algebra 1, Literature, and Biology. Keystone Exams are administered in Literature and Biology in 10th grade during the semester in which a student is taking their English 10 or Biology course. Algebra 1 Keystone Exams are given near the end of Algebra 1 or Algebra 1B courses in either middle or high school depending on an individual student's course sequence.

 

 

2025-2026 Keystone Exam Testing Windows
Exam Name	Winter Test Dates	Spring Test Dates
ELA Keystone	January 5 - 16, 2026	May 11 - 22, 2026
Math Keystone	January 5 - 16, 2026	May 11 - 22, 2026
Biology Keystone	January 5 - 16, 2026	May 11 - 22, 2026
Make-up Keystone Exam	January 5 - 16, 2026	May 11 - 22, 2026