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Credit by Exam

What is Credit by Exam?

Credit by examination (CBE) is one method for students to demonstrate proficiency in grade-level or course content. Students in elementary schools may be accelerated in a grade level based on results on CBE assessments. Likewise, secondary students may be accelerated or earn course credit towards graduation requirements. 

Approved CBEs must cover all assessable Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) for the subject area or course.

1st - 5th Grade:

Students may accelerate through a grade level by making an 80% or above on all four criterion-referenced subject exams: English Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies. Placement in a new grade level will only occur prior to the start of a new school year and with principal approval, regardless of when the credit by examination for acceleration is requested or administered. Students must pass Science CBE before other subjects will be ordered.

6 - 12th Grade:

Students may accelerate in a single subject by earning an 80% or above on the criterion-referenced CBE or an average of 80% for both semesters. Semester tests must be taken in the same window in order to pass with an 80% average. No partial credit will be awarded for year-long courses. The test score will be noted on the student’s transcript if credit is earned, and beginning in May 2026, the score on the CBE will be calculated into the student’s GPA.

In order to receive credit by examination for a specific course, credit must be earned prior to the start of a new school year in which the student would ordinarily be required to enroll in that course, in accordance with the district's prescribed course sequence that the student must satisfactorily complete to receive credit. Placement in a new course will only occur prior to the start of a new school year or regardless of when the credit by examination for acceleration is requested or administered.

Argyle ISD CBE Results

Credit By Exam Grade Acceleration Options

For more detailed information on the the district’s CBE policies, please refer to the AISD CBE Exam Information.