What is the FCAT?
     
    for 2004-2005
    High School Juniors
    and Seniors
     
    The Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT) is the foundation of the statewide educational
    assessment and accountability program. The FCAT program includes assessments in the following
    areas:
     
    • Writing for students in grades 4, 8, and 10
    • Reading and Mathematics for students in grades 3 through 10
    • Science for students in grades 5, 8, and 11
    Do I have to pass the FCAT to graduate?
     
    Yes, but one single test does not determine graduation. The law is very specific in that no student can
    receive a standard high school diploma from a Florida public school unless that student has met all
    academic requirements. This means that students must take required courses, earn the correct number
    of credits, earn the required minimum cumulative grade point average, and pass the required Grade 10
    Reading and Mathematics FCAT to graduate.
      
    How many chances do I have to pass the FCAT?
    ?
    If you don’t pass the first time, you will have more opportunities to take the test. FCAT retakes are
    administered in October, March, and June to 11
    th
      
    and 12
    th
     
    graders. From the 10
    th
     
    grade through the 12
    th
      
    grade,
    most students have six chances to pass the FCAT.
    What scores do I need to pass the FCAT?
    ?
    You must earn a minimum developmental scale score of 1926 on the Grade 10 Reading FCAT and a
    minimum developmental scale score of 1889 on the Grade 10 Mathematics FCAT. Generally all students
    (except certain students with disabilities), including those who transfer from another state with passing
    scores on a previous statewide assessment, must earn passing scores on the FCAT before receiving a
    standard Florida high school diploma.
    Where can I go to get help?
     
    Make an appointment to see your guidance counselor immediately.
     
    For more
    information
    about FCAT,
    contact:
     
    Offce of Assessment and School Performance
     
    Florida Department of Education
     
    325 West Gaines Street, Suite 414
     
    Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0400
      
    Phone: (850) 245-0513 or Suncom 205-0513, Fax: (850) 245-0771
     
    http://www.firn.edu/doe/
    sas.fcat.htm
     
    Updated 12-07-04
     
    for 2004-2005
    High School Juniors
    and Seniors
     
    What kind of assistance can I receive from my school?
    ?
    •
     
     
    Make sure you have a current Academic Improvement Plan.
      
    •
     
     
    Make sure you are enrolled in the proper remedial courses.
      
    •
     
     
    If you failed the Reading portion, make sure that you are enrolled in an intensive reading
    class.
      
    •
     
     
    If you failed the Mathematics portion, make sure that you are enrolled in an intensive
    Mathematics class.
      
    What are my options if I don’t pass the FCAT during my senior year?
    •
     
      
    Continue your high school education through summer school or return to high school the
    following year for additional instruction or remediation.
      
    •
     
     
    Adult Education Standard High School Diploma (must pass the FCAT)
      
    •
     
     
    GED Exit Option
      
    •
     
     
    Common Placement Test (CPT)—Eligible Certificate of Completion
      
    •
    ?
    Additional flexibility for military-dependent students who transfer to Florida during their
    senior year
      
    What can I do to help myself pass the FCAT?
     
    •
    ?
    Attend all remediation classes/activities.
    •
    ?
    Make sure that you have talked with your guidance counselor regarding your options.
      
    •
    ?
    If you need help in reading, make sure that you are enrolled in a remedial reading program.
    •
    ?
    If you need help in Mathematics, make sure that you are enrolled in a remedial Mathematics
    program.
      
    •
    ?
    Sign up for the online assistance program, FCAT Explorer – you can work on this at home.
      
    •
    ?
    Ask for a mentor or a tutor.
      
    •
    ?
    Make sure that you have a well-balanced diet. A healthy body is important to a healthy mind.
    •
    ?
    Complete your homework assignments. Homework supports classroom instruction and will
    help you master classroom work.
      
    •
    ?
    Make sure you are well rested on the day of the test.
      
    •
    ?
    Arrive on time for school.
      
    Florida Department of Education
     
    Bureau of Family and Community Outreach
     
    325 West Gaines Street, Suite 544
     
    Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0400
      
    Phone: (850) 245-0847 or Suncom 205-0847, Fax: (850) 245-0849
     
    http://www.firn.edu/doe/family/
     
    www.fldoe.org
     

    Back to top