What is CBE?
A simple online search will reveal plenty of detailed information about Credit-Based Exam (CBE). To keep things straightforward, I'll skip the jargon and focus on explaining why, and how of it.

 

Why CBE?
CBE allows students to either skip an entire grade or earn credit in a specific subject, enabling them to advance to the next level—whatever that may be. Another significant advantage, which many students—including myself—find particularly appealing, is the cost savings on college credits. In public schools, these credits are often available free of charge and can be transferred to college, helping to reduce tuition expenses.

 

So how does this help and how do I benefit?

CBE benefits students in various ways. For instance, if a student is significantly advanced in their learning, traditional schooling might feel demotivating. This can lead to a loss of interest in school altogether or cause disruptions to their peers. To keep these advanced students motivated, parents can decide to get them registered for CBE.

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Another notable advantage applies to students who speak a native language at home and are proficient in it. Colleges typically require 2 credits in World Languages, which usually means two years of classes. However, students fluent in a language other than English can take a CBE to earn these credits without attending classes. This frees up one class per year, allowing the student to explore another interest or take an advanced subject to earn additional credits.

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A key advantage of CBE to consider is its impact on the PSAT-NMSQT and SAT. As a junior, you may qualify for the National Merit Scholarship based on your PSAT-NMSQT score. Additionally, you will begin taking the SAT, which is essential for college admissions.
Both exams require proficiency in Algebra 2. If you do not advance a year in math, you will take Algebra 2 in 11th grade, meaning you may not be fully familiar with all the concepts that could appear on these tests.

 

In other cases, students aiming to attend competitive universities can benefit from CBE by skipping simpler grade-level subjects and dedicating their time to more advanced coursework.

 

need more insight...

If you're still interested, here’s a more in-depth analysis of this topic, using Math as an example.

 

For those planning to pursue a STEM-based degree, Math is often a core requirement. With proper planning, students can advance through the curriculum and potentially complete courses like Multivariable Calculus* or even earn credit in Linear Algebra—all before stepping foot into college!

 

Higher-level courses, such as Calculus or AP Physics, often have prerequisites. This means students can only enroll in these courses once they meet specific requirements. For example, to get into Calculus, a student would require a credit in pre-calculus. To get into pre-calculus, a student requires Algebra 2 and so on. 

 

Here are few paths to understanding how CBE impacts the credits a student can get before high school:​

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✅ Path 1: Standard Track (No CBE, No Advanced Courses)

6th Grade: Math

7th Grade: Math

8th Grade: Math

9th Grade: Algebra 1

10th Grade: Geometry

11th Grade: Algebra 2

12th Grade: Pre-Calculus

 

✅ Path 2: Advanced Track (No CBE, Advanced Courses - AAC/Honors)

6th Grade: Math AAC/Honors

7th Grade: Math AAC/Honors

8th Grade: Algebra 1

9th Grade: Geometry

10th Grade: Algebra 2

11th Grade: Pre-Calculus

12th Grade: AP Calculus AB / BC

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✅ Path 3: Accelerated Track (CBE + Advanced Courses - AAC/Honors)

5th Grade: Take CBE for 6th Grade Math (during school year or summer)

6th Grade: Math 7 AAC/Honors

7th Grade: Algebra 1

8th Grade: Geometry

9th Grade: Algebra 2

10th Grade: Pre-Calculus

11th Grade: AP Calculus AB / BC

12th Grade: Multivariable Calculus*

 

Hope the above clarifies "why CBE?". Options are limitless. 

NOTE that CBE does not test Advanced levels of subjects. Prerequisite for Algebra 1 is either 7th Grade Math AAC//Honors OR 8th Grade Math. Also note that CBE can be taken at any point to skip any of the grade level subject mentioned above. Ex: CBE in Geometry and directly jump to Algebra 2. 

 

For students who excel in math and are ready for an intense acceleration, here is another path that allows them to skip three grade levels through Credit by Examination (CBE) and reach college-level math by high school graduation.​

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✅ Path 4: Extreme CBE Track

5th Grade: Take CBE for 6th, 7th, and 8th Grade Math (during the school year and summer).

6th Grade: Algebra 1

7th Grade: Geometry

8th Grade: Algebra 2

9th Grade: Pre-Calculus

10th Grade: AP Calculus AB

11th Grade: Multivariable Calculus*

12th Grade: Opt for College Math, ex: Linear Algebra

 

This track is ideal for students with exceptional math skills and a strong commitment to advanced coursework. It provides a head start on college-level mathematics, potentially opening doors to higher-level STEM opportunities early on.

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NOTE: Check the pre-requisite for Multivariable Calculus* --> at my school, the student has to get a 5 on AP Calculus BC to be able to pursue this subject.

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You get the idea! That leaves us with...

 

HOW to register?

The registration process for the CBE and the testing procedures vary depending on the school district's policy. If you're unsure about the steps, reaching out to your subject teacher or school counselor will be helpful, as they can guide you through the process.

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For example, at my school, there's a formal process in place, including a registration form with a deadline, approval from the school counselor, and submission to the district administration. In the end, there's a separate testing center where you must show up on a Saturday to take the test. However, from what I’ve heard from a friend at a different school, all they have to do is speak with their teacher, and the teacher arranges the test to be taken at school during the school day.

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As you can see, the process can vary, so it's best to reach out to your school counselor or teacher for specific information regarding registration and test-taking procedures.

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Please email me at eduNavigatorTX@gmail.com for more information on how to register and what to expect. If available, I can help you find the information for your school.

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Here are some outlines for the process:

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• Google: “School ISD name + CBE”

  • This should take you to your districts policy url.

  • If you do not find it, then personally speak with the teacher / counselor.
     

• CBE has a registration date and test date.

• You will be provided with a registration form that is signed off by a Parent and then the school counselor.

• On the testing day, show up at the center and take the test.

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What is the Passing score?

For most ISD’s in Texas, it is 80.

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While achieving an 80 on the CBE may seem relatively easy, it's important to be cautious when it comes to subjects that count towards high school credits, such as Algebra 1 or Geometry. If you're aiming for a 4.0 GPA by the end of high school, you'll need to aim for a score above 90 on the CBE to stay on track. HINT: Take CBE early on in elementary or Middle school on subjects  whose credits are not transferred to your High School.

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What about curriculum?

The curriculum for the CBE is straightforward and covers all the topics from the grade level and subject you're taking the test in. For instance, if you're taking the test for 6th grade Math, you should search for the topics included in that year's curriculum. While the CBE may not test you in every single topic, it's important for the student to be familiar with all of them. This knowledge will be necessary to keep up with more advanced material in the following year.

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In Texas, the curriculum is defined by TEKS. If you have access to the grade level book, you may also choose to study the same. While Elementary/Middle school level subjects are easier to pass, for CBE in world languages and/or any advanced level subjects like AP US History, you will have to spend dedicated amount of time in getting yourself familiar with all related topics covered in the subject.

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Final thoughts…..

Personally, I find the CBE test to be quite easy—easier than what you'd typically encounter during a regular school year.

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While math is largely concept-based, and if you're already familiar with those concepts, it might feel repetitive or boring to revisit them throughout the year, subjects like English and History require a certain level of maturity to truly appreciate and enjoy. For instance, throughout the year, you're assigned books, literature, speeches, or essays that expose you to different writing styles by renowned authors or highlight the significance of our freedom. If you simply take a CBE and skip the entire years’ worth of learning, you'll miss out on this valuable experience.

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Writing skills, in particular, tend to improve over time, so skipping ahead may put you at a disadvantage, making it harder to catch up. Therefore, students and parents need to be honest about whether skipping a year in that subject is truly beneficial. You'll need to be well-prepared with the coursework and foundational knowledge expected for the upcoming year.

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Still Scratching my head..........

Feeling confused or have lots of follow-up questions? Don’t worry—I was once in the same situation, which is why I created this site. Feel free to email me at eduNavigatorTX@gmail.com for any clarifications. I promise, everything will become crystal clear once you start the process!