What your state tests
South Carolina uses SC READY (ELA and math, grades 3–8), SCPASS (science), and the EOCEP (End-of-Course Examination Program) in high school. Run by the South Carolina Department of Education. There's no separate exit exam — EOCEP results count toward the course grade.
Which tests, which grades
- SC READY (grades 3–8)English language arts and mathematics
- SCPASS (Science)Science in grades 4, 6, and 8
- EOCEP (high school)End-of-course exams in English 2, Algebra 1, Biology 1, and U.S. History
- SC-AltAlternate assessment for eligible students; South Carolina also gives a college-readiness test (SAT/ACT/WorkKeys menu) in high school
Format & subjects
SC READY, SCPASS, and EOCEP are online, with varied item types. EOCEP tests are subject end-of-course exams.
Is passing required to graduate?
No exit-exam gate. Students don't need to pass a state test to graduate; each EOCEP counts as 20% of the final grade in that course, so it affects the course grade and credit. Districts set course and credit requirements.
How it's scored
SC READY and SCPASS report performance levels (e.g., Does Not Meet, Approaches, Meets, Exceeds). EOCEP scores convert into the 20% course-grade contribution.
Testing windows
SC READY and SCPASS are given in a spring window; EOCEP runs in fall, spring, and summer windows tied to courses.
How to prepare
- Practice materialsSCDE provides practice items matching the online format
- Course-aligned reviewEOCEP tests the specific course
Participation & opting out
Students in tested grades and courses participate. Ask your district about make-up windows.
Accommodations & multilingual learners
Accommodations follow a student's IEP or 504 plan; eligible students take the state's alternate assessment. Multilingual learners take an English proficiency test (WIDA ACCESS or the state equivalent) and may receive designated supports.
Accountability & promotion
Results feed South Carolina's school report cards and accountability, guide instruction, and — via the 20% EOCEP weight — affect course grades and credit.
Key facts
- Grades 3–8SC READY (ELA & Math)
- ScienceSCPASS (gr 4, 6, 8)
- High schoolEOCEP (counts 20% of course grade)
- Exit examNone
- AgencySC Dept. of Education
Where to learn more
Confirm current details with the official source and your district: