Credit by Demonstrated Mastery

Credit by Demonstrated Mastery (grades 6-12)

Credit by Demonstrated Mastery (CDM) is an option that allows students to demonstrate mastery and receive credit for a course by taking an assessment demonstrating proficiency by achieving the designated scale score or percent as established by NCDPI, and then completing an artifact reflecting content mastery.  CDM is only available for standard-level courses.  CDM credits are awarded as a pass/fail grade and therefore do not impact grade point averages. 

Access to the Credit by Demonstrated Mastery process is open to all NC public school students for high school courses in grades 9-12 and those high school courses offered in middle school that a district chooses to offer.

While the CDM process is open to all students, it is not for whole groups of students. It is not intended to replace the general accelerated pathways local school districts often provide advanced students. Instead, it is designed to provide an opportunity for an individual student who has an exceptional mastery of course content prior to taking a course and who wishes to earn credit and move on to another course that is a better use of their time for learning

“Mastery” is defined as a student’s command of course material at a level that demonstrates a deep understanding of the content standards and application of knowledge.

If a student chooses to participate in CDM for a course and successfully meets the assessment score and demonstrates mastery on completed artifacts, credit will be provided for the upcoming semester. 

The CDM process starts with a conversation with the student’s counselor.  Please make sure that this has occurred prior to applying.

Application for Spring 2025 Window 

January 1-31, 2025

Students who wish to participate in the CDM process during Spring 2025 need to submit a completed application no later than January 31, 2025.  

Please click on the CDM One-Pager for process guidelines, FAQ, and the link to the application form.

You will receive information about the testing schedule once the application window closes and the School Testing Coordinator has an opportunity to develop a testing plan based on the number of applications submitted.

CDM Testing Windows for 2024-2025 School Year

*Courses that are being piloted or have field tests due to new standard options are not eligible for CDM administration.

All initial questions need to be directed to the school counselor assigned to the student. If you need additional information, please contact the CMS District CDM Contact, Amanda Aycoth, amanda.cherry@cms.k12.nc.us.