Outcomes · K-12 education statistics
Proficiency rate
The share of students scoring at or above a state's own 'proficient' cut score.
A proficiency rate is the percentage of tested students meeting or exceeding the proficient threshold on a state assessment, usually reported by subject and grade.
Proficiency is defined by each state on its own test, so the cut score is not comparable across state lines — a state can raise or lower measured proficiency by moving the threshold rather than by changing what students know. Within a state and a stable test regime the series is meaningful; across states it is not, and only NAEP supports that comparison.
Also known as: test scores, proficient, assessment results.
See proficiency rate in the data
Explore enrolment, staffing, poverty and outcomes for every state and county. Start free — no credit card needed.
Proficiency rate — FAQ
What is proficiency rate in school and district data?+
The share of students scoring at or above a state's own 'proficient' cut score. A proficiency rate is the percentage of tested students meeting or exceeding the proficient threshold on a state assessment, usually reported by subject and grade.
Why does proficiency rate matter?+
Proficiency is defined by each state on its own test, so the cut score is not comparable across state lines — a state can raise or lower measured proficiency by moving the threshold rather than by changing what students know. Within a state and a stable test regime the series is meaningful; across states it is not, and only NAEP supports that comparison.
Where does this school and district data come from?+
Core statistics come from the National Center for Education Statistics — the Common Core of Data, EDFacts, and the Civil Rights Data Collection. The most recent graduation rates and state report-card outcomes come directly from state education agencies, which publish sooner than the federal series. pumsdata is independent and not affiliated with NCES or any state agency.