How to get ESSA certified
The Every Student Succeeds Act created the evidence standards that now determine market access for EdTech products. Here’s what it takes to meet them — and why it matters more than ever.
Talk to Dr. Schechter Free initial consultation · Typically 30 minutesWhat is ESSA certification?
The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) was enacted to ensure that schools provide students with the best possible resources to support their learning. ESSA certification is an evidence-based standard demonstrating your product meets rigorous criteria for improving student outcomes.
To achieve ESSA certification, an EdTech product must be backed by reliable research proving its effectiveness in educational settings. This isn’t just a stamp of approval — it’s a signal to educators and school districts that your product is worth their time, money, and trust.
The four tiers of ESSA evidence
To obtain ESSA certification, your product must meet one of four tiers of evidence, each representing a different level of research rigor. These tiers help educators and decision-makers understand how robust your product’s supporting research is.
Strong Evidence
Requires a high-quality experimental study (like an RCT) that shows a positive impact on learning outcomes, with at least 350 participants across multiple schools. This tier provides the highest level of validation.
Moderate Evidence
Involves a quasi-experimental study that demonstrates a positive impact on relevant outcomes. Requires a similar sample size and multi-site validation as Tier I, but allows for a more naturalistic research design.
Promising Evidence
Needs correlational research with statistical controls for bias. Requires a demonstrated positive impact, with more flexible sample and setting requirements, making it accessible for smaller studies.
Demonstrates a Rationale
Based on a well-defined logic model, this tier requires a plan to study the product’s impact rather than statistical evidence. Suitable for products in early development stages.
Dr. Schechter breaks down ESSA evidence requirements in 60-second videos.
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The path to ESSA certification
Now that you understand the four tiers of ESSA evidence, the next step is to align your product’s research with the appropriate tier and begin the certification process.
Conduct Research
Partner with independent researchers, such as LXD Research, to conduct studies that align with ESSA evidence tiers.
Document Evidence
Compile comprehensive documentation of your research findings — study design, methodology, outcomes, and analysis.
Submit for Evaluation
Present your evidence to non-profit education agencies or for-profit evaluators who specialize in assessing ESSA evidence.
Receive Certification
Upon approval, receive a certificate and badge or seal that recognizes your product’s evidence level.
Who evaluates ESSA evidence?
Approval for ESSA certification requires a thorough review by organizations specializing in educational research. State-level departments of education are increasingly using Evidence for ESSA as a proxy for What Works Clearinghouse.
- Non-profit Education Agencies — Organizations such as Digital Promise, the Johns Hopkins Center for Research and Reform in Education (Evidence for ESSA), and International Certification for Evidence in Education (EduEvidence) offer rigorous evaluation services.
- For-profit Evaluators — Companies specializing in educational research and evaluation also provide ESSA certification services.
- Government Entities — Some state education agencies have their own processes for reviewing and approving ESSA evidence. LXD Research has helped products earn approval on state lists through our studies.
The benefits of ESSA certification
Earning ESSA certification offers several significant advantages that compound over time.
Credibility
Third-party validation of your product’s effectiveness — the kind of independent proof that educators trust.
Market Differentiation
In a crowded EdTech market, ESSA certification sets you apart. It shows your product has been vetted and verified.
Funding Opportunities
Many education grants require or prefer products with ESSA evidence, expanding your potential market reach.
Informed Decision-Making
Provides educators with reliable, research-backed data to make evidence-based choices about classroom technology.
Continuous Improvement
The certification process often provides valuable insights that enhance your product’s effectiveness and help you meet evolving needs.
New Research
Educators demand ESSA evidence — 75% trust tools more when scientifically validated. See what 200+ K-12 teachers told us about AI adoption, evidence, and trust.
Read the Survey Results →Showcasing your ESSA certification
Achieving ESSA certification is just the first step — now it’s time to showcase this credential to boost your visibility and maximize your impact in the education market.
Product Website
Display your ESSA badge or seal prominently so buyers see it immediately.
Marketing Materials
Include your certification in brochures, presentations, and promotional content.
Product Indexes
Get listed in databases like the EdSurge Product Index, LearnPlatform, or the Global EdTech Evidence List.
Research Databases
Add reports to searchable databases like ResearchGate and the Education Resources Information Center (ERIC).
RFP Responses
Highlight your ESSA evidence when responding to requests for proposals from schools and districts.
State Submissions
Use your certification to qualify for state-level approved vendor and program lists.
From existing research to certified evidence
Building an Evidence Portfolio Step by Step
One of our clients had academic research on ERIC, but it wasn’t designed in a way that clearly identified it as ESSA III and didn’t have a formal logic model with a literature review. Together, we got the documentation to earn the Digital Promise research-based design certification. Next, we analyzed data they collected with a partner district in a traditional ESSA Promising correlational study, which recently earned its ICEIE Silver Effectiveness certification. The COO shared in an update meeting that having the certified study substantially lowered layers of barriers during the sales process. Their next goal is a randomized controlled trial to aim for the “gold” strong study criteria.
What to keep in mind
While ESSA certification offers significant advantages, there are practical considerations to navigate.
Time and Resources
Conducting the rigorous studies required for certification can be time-consuming and resource-intensive. Planning ahead matters.
Maintaining Certification
Evidence levels may need to be re-evaluated periodically as standards evolve and certification bodies update their requirements.
Balancing Tiers
While Tier I is the “gold standard,” all tiers offer valuable validation. Lower tiers may be more feasible for products in earlier development stages or with limited research resources. Any ESSA certification shows a commitment to evidence-based effectiveness.
Interpreting Results
Understanding and accurately representing your evidence level is crucial. Overclaiming can damage credibility; clear and honest reporting builds trust.
Ready to start your ESSA certification journey?
At LXD Research, we specialize in guiding EdTech companies through each step of the process — from study design to state approval.
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