Science diagnostic test results were the weakest among major school exams

Ninth-graders who took last year's science diagnostic test scored notably lower than students in other major assessments, averaging just 44.8%. By comparison, the centralized Latvian language exam produced an average of 56.2%, mathematics reached 54.8%, and the English language monitoring test scored 70%.

A closer look reveals significant gaps between different skill categories within the science test. Students averaged 56.8% on the knowledge and understanding component, but only 35.7% on the skills component. An even sharper divide appeared across literacy dimensions: the "knows and applies" category scored highest at 54.7%, while "analytical reasoning" scored lowest at just 29.2%.

Results across the three science subjects were more evenly matched — students averaged 49.5% in biology, 43.6% in physics, and 42.3% in chemistry. The State Education Content Centre (VIAA) says data comparing results between general schools and state gymnasiums is not currently available.

Centralized exam this year

This academic year, ninth-graders will take a centralized exam in science rather than a diagnostic test. VIAA explains that, unlike the monitoring assessment, the exam will include external observers, making its administration and results more objective — schools will also be able to use exam results as a selection criterion for tenth-grade admissions. Students who pass will receive a certificate, though unlike the mathematics and Latvian language exams, science will not yet require students to meet a minimum passing threshold this year.

The exam's content and structure will resemble last year's diagnostic test, with each of the three subjects — biology, physics and chemistry — accounting for roughly 35% of the exam. The assessment will cover skills in explaining natural phenomena, conducting research, analyzing data, forming arguments and drawing conclusions. VIAA plans to publish a detailed exam program on its website by November 1, and a seminar for school leaders on the administration of state exams is scheduled for September 22.