The National Assessment for 8th-grade students represents the method of external summative assessment of the competencies acquired throughout lower secondary education.

The exam takes place annually, in a single session. Both candidates from public education and those from private education are entitled to take the National Assessment free of charge.

The average obtained at the 8th Grade National Assessment is a decisive criterion for admission to high school education.

The national coordination of the planning, organization, and conducting of the 8th Grade National Assessment, as well as the valorization of its results, are ensured by the Ministry of Education and Research through the National Center for Policies and Evaluation in Education (CNPEE).

The preparation of specific assessment procedures is carried out by CNPEE, following consultation with the specialized departments of the ministry.

The coordination at the county/Bucharest municipality level of the organization of the 8th Grade National Assessment, as well as the valorization of its results, are ensured by the county school inspectorate.