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New Policy Update

Final Exam Exemptions Rewarding hard work and attendance

Beginning this school year, qualifying students in grades 9–11 may receive final exam exemptions. Seniors continue to be eligible under the district’s existing exemption requirements.

Students must meet every requirement for their grade level.

Who Can Qualify?

Students must meet all three requirements for their grade level during the applicable semester.

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Grades 12

Seniors

First or second semester

Seniors must meet all of the following:

  • Earn at least a B average, or 80, in the course.
  • Have three or fewer absences during the semester.
  • Have no suspensions during the semester.
High school students participating in a classroom lesson

Grades 9–11

Freshmen, Sophomores and Juniors

First or second semester

Students must meet all of the following:

  • Earn at least an A average, or 90, in the course.
  • Have three or fewer absences during the semester.
  • Have no suspensions during the semester.
Final exams are required for students in grades 9–12.

A student must qualify under the district policy to receive an exemption.

Important Information

Students and families should review the following information before deciding whether to use an exemption.

  1. A student may not receive an exemption when a state assessment is used as the course’s final examination.
  2. Using an exemption is optional. A qualifying student may choose to take the examination. The exam grade will be used only when it improves the student’s final course grade.
  3. When a qualifying student does not take the final examination, the final course grade will be based on tests and coursework completed during the term.
  4. Teachers must notify qualifying students at least two days before the examination period. A qualifying student must tell the teacher whether the student intends to take the examination at least one day before the exam.
  5. A high school student enrolled in an Advanced Placement course who takes the AP examination is exempt from the regular class final examination. Review the full policy for details.
  6. Students who qualify for an exemption must continue attending class and completing all assignments.

How the Exemption Process Works

Follow these steps as the final examination period approaches.

Receive Notification

Teachers notify qualifying students at least two days before final examinations.

Notify Your Teacher

Tell your teacher whether you plan to take the exam at least one day before it is scheduled.

Choose Whether to Test

A qualifying student may still take the exam. The score counts only when it improves the final course grade.

Calculate the Final Grade

Without an exam, the final grade is based on coursework and tests completed during the term.

Keep Up the Good Work

Continue attending class, completing assignments and meeting all course expectations.

High school students collaborating during an academic class

Advanced Placement Courses

A high school student enrolled in an Advanced Placement course who takes the AP examination is exempt from the regular class final examination. Students and families should review the full policy or contact their school with questions about an individual course.

Your Future. Our Focus.

Review Cabarrus County Schools Policy 3411, High School Final Examinations, for complete requirements and procedures.

Read Policy 3411

Be present. Be prepared. Be proud.