Testing Policies and Requirements

Keystone Testing

What are the Keystone Exams?

The Keystone Exams are standards-based, end-of-course assessments designed to assess proficiency in the subject areas of Algebra I, Literature, and Biology. They are central to several pathways in Pennsylvania’s statewide high school graduation requirements. (CLICK HERE)

Keystone Parent Guide CLICK HERE

What does it mean to be Below Basic, Basic, Proficient, or Advanced? The Pennsylvania Department of Education has performance level descriptors (CLICK HERE) for Algebra 1, Literature, and Biology.

Where can I find additional information on the Keystones?

School District of Philadelphia’s Office of Assessment: https://www.philasd.org/research/#assessmentsera

Pennsylvania Department of Education’s Keystone Homepage: https://www.education.pa.gov/K-12/Assessment%20and%20Accountability/Keystones/Pages/default.aspx