This month, students of the 2nd, 4th and 6th grades will go through the emotions of the exams. It is important to know that the National Assessments at the end of these classes are designed as skills verification tools, not as a means of scoring or ranking. The tests do not influence the averages and do not appear in the catalog, but they provide a realistic picture of the child’s level of development and possible difficulties, so that they can be corrected. In addition, from this year, the assessments will also contain PISA-type items.
Why these ratings are important
Assessments at the end of grades 2, 4, and 6 measure progress on several levels: from basic skills such as reading and writing to more complex skills such as interpreting a text or solving applied problems.
Unlike high-stakes exams, these tests have a diagnostic role: they measure students’ level of preparation, and the results can be used by schools and teachers to adapt teaching methods and support students where needed.
An essential aspect: the results are not made public and, by default, are not passed into the catalog. However, at the request of the student and the parents/legal guardian, the scores can be equated with grades or grades.
News in 2026. What has changed compared to previous years?
Last September, the Ministry of Education approved an updated methodology, with two important changes:
- Emphasis on topics anchored in real life. The tests target knowledge and skills applicable in everyday life, not just reproducing some information from the textbook.
- Assessment of functional literacy. Items that assess functional literacy skills with practical applications, including from other curriculum areas, will be included for the first time — an approach inspired by the international PISA tests.
Former minister Daniel David was the one who introduced these changes.
How the Second Class Assessment is conducted
For the youngest students involved, the Assessment is designed in an accessible and pressure-free manner. Tests are short and run during regular class time without an exam atmosphere.
Students are assessed in two tests: “Language and Communication” and “Mathematics and Environmental Exploration”, and the requirements are simple and clear.
In the first test, children usually have to read a short text and answer direct questions. Correct spelling, vocabulary, spelling and correct use of punctuation are assessed.
In Mathematics, the exercises focus on simple operations (addition, subtraction), elementary logic problems with elements from the surrounding world (animals, plants, seasons), counting and comparing quantities.
The tests last 45 minutes and are conducted under the supervision of the teacher.
The exam calendar for the second grade
- Language and communication – writing – Romanian language/ mother tongue – May 12
- Language and communication – read – Romanian language/mother tongue – May 13
- Mathematics and Environmental Exploration – May 14
- Language and communication – Writing and Reading – Romanian language for national minorities – May 15
What does the Grade IV Assessment bring?
The grade IV assessment marks the end of the primary cycle and makes the transition to more complex requirements. Students are tested in “Language and communication” and in “Mathematics and Natural Sciences”.
The texts become more consistent, and the requirements are no longer limited to the identification of some information, but also involve their interpretation. Students must demonstrate that they can understand deeper meanings and that they can express their ideas in a coherent way.
For example, an item may ask you to formulate an opinion about a read passage or to explain the behavior of a character. Such requirements emphasize critical thinking, not just information reproduction.
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In Mathematics, the problems are more elaborate and involve several stages of solving. Students must apply knowledge in a variety of contexts to demonstrate that they can bridge theory and practice.
The duration of each test is 60 minutes. The subjects are shared by a teacher who does not teach in that class. During the entire duration of the test, the students are supervised by another teacher who does not teach them in the usual way.
The rooms in which the National Assessment is held are, as a rule, the rooms in which the students of the class study.
The exam calendar for the 4th grade
- Language and communication – Romanian language/Romanian language for national minorities – May 19
- Mathematics and Natural Sciences – May 20, 2026
- Language and communication – Mother tongue – May 21, 2026
How the Assessment is conducted in the 6th grade
In the case of 6th grade students, the tests are as follows: “Language and communication”, as well as “Mathematics and Natural Sciences”. Within the “Natural Sciences” knowledge from Physics and Biology is evaluated. The purpose of this evaluation is also to preorient the child to a certain type of high school.
In the Romanian Language test, students have to read more complex texts and answer questions that involve interpretation, analysis and reasoning. It is no longer enough to identify information, but to explain, compare and formulate points of view.
In Mathematics, exercises include several operations and require a logical approach, and in Science, students must explain physical and natural phenomena, answer theoretical questions, but also solve applied exercises that include elements such as protecting the environment.
As with the Grade IV Assessment, the duration of each test is 60 minutes. The subjects are shared by a teacher who does not teach in that class. During the entire duration of the test, the students are supervised by another teacher who does not teach them in the usual way
The rooms in which the National Assessment is held are, as a rule, the rooms in which the students of the class study.
Exam calendar for the 6th grade
- Language and communication – Romanian language/ Romanian language for national minorities – May 26
- Mathematics and Natural Sciences – May 27
- Language and communication – Mother tongue – 28 May
How can you help your child prepare?
1. Don’t create unnecessary pressure. These tests are not decisive exams. A relaxed atmosphere at home helps more than extra hours of intensive training.
2. Practice with official patterns. The Ministry of Education has published subject models for 2nd grade, 4th grade and 6th grade. Go through them together, without a timer, as a regular activity.
3. Talk to the teacher in charge. Teachers know best where your child has gaps and what can be practiced effectively at home.
4. Make sure your little one gets enough sleep in the days leading up to the tests. Rest is more valuable than a night of recap.
5. Explain to the child what the assessment is. An 8-year-old or 12-year-old who understands that the test is “like a snapshot of what he knows now”—not an exam on which his future depends—will go to school with more serenity.
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