Can you graduate without passing a STAAR in Texas?

Yes, it's possible to graduate without passing all STAAR tests in Texas through specific waivers or alternative paths, especially for students with disabilities or under certain legislative provisions, but generally, passing the five End-of-Course (EOC) STAAR exams is a standard requirement, with committees and district flexibility offering pathways for those who haven't met the test scores but have passed their classes.

Do you have to pass the STAAR test to graduate in Texas?

In general, students must pass (achieve Approaches Grade Level or higher) all five STAAR EOC assessments—Algebra I, English I, English II, Biology, and U.S. History—to earn a high school diploma from a Texas public school district or open-enrollment charter school as required in TEC §39.025.

Is a STAAR test mandatory in Texas?

All students enrolled in Texas public schools and open-enrollment charter schools in grades 3–8 and specific high school courses are required by both federal and state law to participate in STAAR.

Can you graduate without taking the SATs?

Several states have established ACT and/or SAT graduation requirements for high schoolers to assess school performance and to provide students the chance to take a college admissions exam. Most states don't mandate either exam; however, many districts and schools have their own testing requirements.

What are the requirements to graduate in Texas?

Graduation Requirements

• Credits: Students must earn 22 high school credits.
• GPA: A final GPA equivalent to 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is required.
• Standardized Tests: Achieving in the 80th percentile on college readiness exams or being in the top 10% of their class.

Texas could let students graduate without passing STAAR test

What if I fail a required course?

If you fail a class that's a must-have for your major, chances are you'll need to retake it. But here's the thing: each college has its own rules when it comes to retakes. Some colleges might put a cap on the number of times you can retake a course for one class.

What are common reasons to graduate early?

Other reasons why students might graduate early include:

• To earn an income sooner and fund travel or university.
• To pursue athletic opportunities.
• To prepare for community college or university sooner.
• To achieve more personal goals, such as traveling to another country.

Do you still graduate if you fail?

Failing a course may be a setback, but it is not necessarily a disastrous one. Students who have failed can go on to pass re-sits and still graduate with a good degree. The important thing is for you to try to understand why you failed, learn what you can do about it and take action to get back on track.

What happens if you don't pass the SAT?

An SAT score is just a part of your college application, but a low score will subject the rest of your app to high scrutiny. A very low score might get your app tossed out, even if the rest of your credentials signal that you'd be a good fit for the school.

How much does 1 SAT cost?

The SAT registration fee is $68. Students eligible for fee waivers can take the SAT for free and receive additional benefits. Students testing internationally are subject to an international registration fee of $43. More information on test fees can be found on the Test Fees page.

Can you skip the STAAR test in Texas?

The state of Texas requires that students pass (or substitute criteria) 5 STAAR exams (3 in 9th, Eng II in 10th and US History in 11th) in order to graduate. A high school student can opt out of STAAR and still graduate if they qualify for a combination of substitute assessments, IGC and other options.

What is the passing score for STAAR?

To pass STAAR, students must score in “approaches grade level” or higher. That might sound like it requires getting at least half the answers right, but in reality, the bar is much lower. In most cases, students only need to answer a little over a third of the questions correctly.

Is Texas removing STAAR test?

House Bill 8 (HB 8), passed during the 89th Texas Legislature, 2nd Called Session (2025), and signed by Governor Abbott in September 2025, repeals and replaces the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR®) beginning with the 2027–28 school year.

What's the lowest GPA you can have to graduate high school?

Grade Point Average

A 2.0 GPA meets high school graduation requirements but most colleges—and some trade schools—expect a high school GPA of at least 3.0 (B) or better.

What are the requirements to graduate early in Texas?

Texas First Early High School Completion Program

• Be a Texas resident.
• Complete the FAFSA/TAFSA.
• Earn 22 high school credits.
• Maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher on an unweighted 4.0 scale.
• Perform at the 80th percentile or higher on a college readiness assessment or have a GPA in the top 10% of the class.

Can you still graduate without enough credits?

Meeting the credit requirements is a fundamental requirement to graduate. It shows that you have completed the necessary coursework and gained the knowledge and skills expected of a graduate in your field of study. College credits also provide a sense of accomplishment and validation.

What happens if I fail my SATs?

What Happens If My Child Fails Their SATs? Whilst SATs are only a performance indicator, a poor score can limit the choice of subjects that are available at GCSE level. Your child may also be placed in a lower set in secondary school where they will be prioritised for needing extra help or tuition.

How many attempts do you have to take the SAT?

Students can take the SAT as many times as they want. We recommend that they take it at least twice—in the spring of their junior year and the fall of their senior year. Most students get a higher score the second time, and most colleges consider a student's highest SAT score when making admission decisions.

Can I still graduate if I fail?

You will likely need to make up for the failed class to meet the required credits for graduation. This could mean taking an extra class or attending summer school.

Will one F ruin my GPA?

Your GPA is affected

When you fail a course, the grade you receive is often an F, which carries no grade points. As a result, failing a course can significantly lower your GPA, especially if it is worth several credits.

What is the lowest pass for a degree?

Lower Second-Class Honours (50-60%): a 2.2 or two-two is the lower level of the second class degree. Third-Class Honours (40-50%): known as a 'third' or 3rd, this degree is the lowest honours degree achievable.

What is the hardest year of high school?

Junior year (11th grade) is often considered the most crucial year in high school. It's when students take standardized tests, maintain grades for college applications, and start researching and visiting colleges. Strong academic performance during this year significantly impacts college admissions decisions.

Why is Gen Z not going to college?

Sentiment toward college is shifting as Gen Z questions rising tuition costs, overwhelming student debt, and an unpredictable job market.

Is it rare to graduate at 15?

Typically, students who speed up their schooling graduate around 16 or 17 years old. However, there are rare cases of extremely gifted kids who graduate even younger. These kids usually have unique educational paths, such as homeschooling or specialized programs that help them learn quickly.