The National Evaluation for eighth grade students represents the way of external summative assessment of the competencies acquired during lower secondary education.

The exam takes place annually, in a single session. Both candidates from public education and those from private education have the right to take the NE without a fee.

The average obtained in NE VIII is a decisive criterion for admission to high school education.

The coordination at the national level of the planning, organization and conducting of NE VIII, as well as the utilization of its results, is ensured by the Ministry of Education through the National Center for Evaluation and Examination (CNEE).

The development of specific evaluation procedures is carried out by CNEE, following consultation with the specialized departments within the ministry.

The coordination at the county/Bucharest municipality level of the organization of NE VIII, as well as the utilization of its results, is ensured by the school inspectorate.