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What Is a Passing Score? (It Varies by Test and State)

The word “passing” means different things in different testing contexts. There is no universal passing score — the threshold depends on the type of test, the state, the grade level, and the purpose of the assessment.

Classroom Tests

For typical classroom tests, a passing grade is defined by the teacher and school grading policy. Most schools consider 60% or 70% to be the minimum passing score for a test, though this varies. Some schools use a 10-point scale where 70% is the floor; others use a 7-point scale where 65% is the minimum D. Check your school’s student handbook for the specific grading scale used.

State Standardized Tests

For state standardized tests, “passing” is defined as reaching the proficiency benchmark set by the state. The specific score that counts as proficient is set by each state and is reviewed periodically. Common frameworks include:

  • Texas (STAAR): “Approaches Grade Level” is the minimum for most purposes; high school EOC exams require a score at or above the passing standard.
  • SBAC states: Level 3 (“at standard”) is considered meeting the standard.
  • NAEP: “Proficient” is widely used as the national benchmark, though states set their own passing thresholds independently.

Note that what counts as “proficient” varies significantly by state. A student who passes their state test at the proficiency level may score below proficiency on NAEP, which uses a more rigorous standard.

High School Graduation Requirements

Many states require students to pass specific end-of-course or exit exams as a condition of high school graduation. Requirements vary:

  • Some states require passing scores on specific subject tests (e.g., Algebra I, English)
  • Some states allow students to graduate with below-proficiency scores if other academic requirements are met
  • Some states have eliminated mandatory exit exams in recent years

Check your state’s graduation requirements with your school counselor or state Department of Education website.

SAT and ACT

There is no “passing” or “failing” on the SAT or ACT. Every student receives a score. What constitutes a “good” score is relative to the colleges being applied to. See SAT Guide and ACT Guide for context on competitive score ranges.

AP Exams: A score of 3 on a 1–5 scale is generally described as “passing” or “qualified,” though many colleges require a 4 or 5 to award credit. See AP Exams Explained.