Florida Concordant Scores for High School Graduation

High school students in Florida must pass certain assessments to graduate, but not every student passes the required tests on their first try. If your student didn’t pass the required English Language Arts (ELA) or Algebra 1 assessments, there’s another option: concordant scores from the SAT or ACT. Here’s what you need to know about using these scores to meet Florida’s graduation requirements and how ACT or SAT prep can make a difference.

What Are Concordant Scores?

Concordant scores are alternative test scores students can submit if they don’t pass the required statewide exams. In Florida, students must pass the Grade 10 FAST ELA or the B.E.S.T. Algebra 1 End-of-Course (EOC) assessment to earn their diploma. If a student doesn’t pass these exams, they can still meet graduation requirements by achieving specific scores on the SAT or ACT.

Concordant Scores for ELA

Students can use scores from the SAT or ACT to meet the ELA requirement. The scores needed are:

• SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW): 480
• ACT English and Reading (averaged): 18

These concordant scores apply to students entering grade 9 in 2020–21 or later. Achieving these scores can replace the need to pass the Grade 10 FAST ELA assessment.

Comparative Scores for Algebra 1

Similarly, for students struggling with the Algebra 1 EOC, certain scores on the SAT or ACT can substitute for the EOC requirement. The scores are:

• SAT Math: 420
• ACT Math: 16

These scores give students another opportunity to fulfill their Algebra 1 requirement and move toward graduation.

Why SAT or ACT Scores Matter Beyond Graduation

Not only can SAT or ACT scores help students meet graduation requirements, but they also play a crucial role in college admissions and scholarship opportunities. Many scholarships, including Bright Futures and other merit-based awards, consider SAT or ACT scores. Preparing for these exams not only ensures students can graduate but also opens doors to post-secondary education funding.

The Importance of ACT and SAT Prep

Since these standardized tests serve multiple purposes—from high school graduation to college admissions and scholarships—adequate preparation is essential. Investing time in SAT or ACT prep can help students:

• Improve their chances of meeting graduation requirements
• Increase their college admission prospects
• Qualify for valuable scholarships

If a student didn’t pass the required ELA or Algebra 1 assessments, concordant scores provide an alternative path to graduation. But these scores do more than just help students graduate—they’re key to unlocking future opportunities. For students aiming for success, SAT and ACT prep can make a significant difference in their results.

Encouraging high-quality preparation with Horizon Education coursework and benchmark assessments can ensure students are ready to meet not only graduation requirements but also excel in their future educational endeavors. Reach out today to learn how our tailored prep programs can help students achieve their goals.