National tests — the school system's independent thermometer
The national tests in Swedish, English and mathematics in year 9 are the closest we come to an independent measure of pupils' knowledge. Unlike final grades, which are set by the teaching staff, national tests are marked with external assessment.
The chart shows each school's average national test result. The variation is wide — from schools where almost all pupils pass with a good margin to schools where a significant share do not reach a passing grade.
The difference between grades and national test results — so-called 'grade inflation' — is a hot topic in the education debate. Schools where grades consistently exceed test results may signal generous assessment. Conversely, schools with lower grades than test results may be stricter in their grading.
English stands out as the subject where Swedish pupils generally perform best. Mathematics shows the widest spread, with notable differences between top and bottom. Swedish falls in between. The pattern reflects broader educational trends in Sweden.
Statistics: academic year 2023/24. Source: Skolverket open data, Kolada and SCB. Processed by Skolkoll. Glossary · About the data.