The National Evaluation for eighth grade students represents the external summative evaluation method of the competencies acquired during middle school education.

The exam is held annually in a single session. Both candidates from public education and those from private education have the right to take the NE without a fee.

The grade obtained at NE VIII is a decisive criterion for admission to high school education.

The national coordination of the planning, organization, and execution of NE VIII, as well as the utilization of its results, is ensured by the Ministry of Education through the National Center for Evaluation and Examination (NCEE).

The development of specific evaluation procedures is carried out by NCEE, after consulting the specialized departments within the ministry.

The county/Bucharest municipality-level coordination of the organization of NE VIII, as well as the utilization of its results, is ensured by the school inspectorate.