The National Assessment for eighth grade students represents the method of external summative assessment of the skills acquired during lower secondary education.

The exam takes place annually in a single session. Both candidates coming from public education and those from private education have the right to take the NA free of charge.

The average obtained in NA VIII is a decisive criterion for admission to secondary education.

The national coordination of the design, organization, and conduct of NA VIII, as well as the capitalization of its results, is ensured by the Ministry of Education through the National Center for Assessment and Examination (CNEE).

The development of specific assessment procedures is carried out by the CNEE, following consultations with the ministry's specialized departments.

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