Ed Dept Seeks OK to Keep Tracking Independent Student Tests
Published Date: 4/29/2026
Notice
Summary
The Department of Education wants to keep collecting info about tests that aren’t run by schools but still count for student aid. This affects private companies and individuals involved with these tests. They’re asking for public feedback by May 29, 2026, but there’s no new cost or big changes—just a smooth extension of current rules.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
ATB tests can determine federal aid
If you do not have a high school diploma or its recognized equivalent, approved independently administered Ability-to-Benefit (ATB) tests may be used to determine your eligibility for Title IV student financial assistance. The regulations covered by this information collection govern how private test publishers or States apply for and get approval for such tests.
Paperwork for test approvals continues
If you are a private test publisher, an individual involved with independently administered tests, or a state/local/tribal government official, the Department of Education is extending without change its data-collection rules for those tests. The information collection (OMB Control Number 1845-0049) shows 67,989 estimated annual responses and 10,392 total annual burden hours will continue to be required.
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