Difference between Criterion-Referenced & Norm-Referenced Tests

Basis Criterion-Referenced Test Norm-Referenced Test

Each candidate is independently Judged on the basis of other

Performance
assessed. candidate’s performance.

It does not compare a candidate’s It compares a candidate’s

Comparison
performance with other candidates. performance with other candidates.

Its main objective is to help Its main objective is to assess a

Objective candidates learn without getting candidate’s performance with other
questioned about the score. candidates.

They have fixed criteria for

Criteria Their criteria changes with outcomes.
assessment.

Results Results can be derived quickly. Takes little time to derive results.

Examples Clinical skill competency tools. Class examination.