The National Assessment for 8th grade students is the method of external summative evaluation of the competencies acquired during lower secondary education.

The exam is held 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-level coordination of the planning, organization, and conduct of the 8th grade National Assessment, as well as the utilization of its results, is provided by the Ministry of Education through the National Center for Assessment and Examination (CNEE).

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

The county/Bucharest municipality-level coordination of the organization of the 8th grade National Assessment, as well as the utilization of its results, is ensured by the school inspectorate.