A survey of 42 statewide assessment programs was conducted to determine: (1) The status of statewide assessment programs in the United States when classified by purpose, authority, methodology, and scope; (2) Are there any differences within these classifications for programs which are aimed primarily at state-level decision making as opposed to those designed primarily for local use; and (3) The primary types of measurement used by statewide assessment programs and the strengths and weaknesses of such models. Data was collected by requesting 53 state departments of education to send information and publications related to their statewide assessment activities. Materials received were checked against two nationwide descriptions of state assessment and or testing programs issued by Educational Testing Service in 1973. Some recommendations for future research include: the need for immediate research on the question of the most effective roles for statewide assessment programs in influencing state or local decision making, research needed on the procedures and techniques to widen availability of criterion referenced instruments, and research studies that will solve some of the methodological problems facing state assessment programs. (Author/DEP)