FSA Scores and Passing Score Guide: What Every Florida Parent Should Know

FSA Score Scale Overview

The FSA used a developmental scale score (DSS) — a vertical scale that allows scores to be compared across grade levels. For ELA grades 3–10 and Mathematics grades 3–8, scores ranged from approximately 100 to 500. The scale was designed so scores increase as students advance through grades — a score of 340 in Grade 3 is not the same level as 340 in Grade 8.

For end-of-course exams (Algebra 1, Algebra 2, Geometry), the FSA used a T-score scale of 375–425, with passing set at a score of 399.

Students received their FSA score report through their school district or via the Florida Department of Education portal. Reports showed the scale score, achievement level, and in some cases, strand-level performance data. Practice using fsa practice exam resources to understand the types of questions assessed at each achievement level.

FSA Achievement Levels Explained

FSA results were reported using five achievement levels:

• Level 1 — Inadequate: The student has an inadequate command of the Florida Standards and is not on track for grade-level work.
• Level 2 — Below Satisfactory: The student has a below satisfactory command of the standards with noticeable gaps.
• Level 3 — Satisfactory: The student demonstrates a satisfactory command of grade-level standards — the minimum proficiency benchmark. This is often called "passing."
• Level 4 — Proficient: The student demonstrates a proficient command and is well-prepared for the next grade's demands.
• Level 5 — Mastery: The student demonstrates a full and thorough command of the Florida Standards at a mastery level.

For Grade 3 ELA in particular, Level 3 had high-stakes implications under Florida's Third Grade Reading Guarantee — students scoring Level 1 could be held back unless qualifying for a good cause exemption. This policy was a major reason the FSA ELA reading score was closely tracked by families and districts alike.

FSA ELA Passing Scores by Grade (Historical)

The following Level 3 cut scores are approximate and based on FDOE published data. Exact cut scores were set annually and could shift slightly from year to year.

Note: These are approximate historical cut scores. Official FDOE score reports are the authoritative source for exact values for a given test year.

FSA Algebra 1 EOC Scores

The FSA Algebra 1 EOC used a T-score scale (375–425). Key thresholds:

• Passing score: 399 (required for Florida standard diploma)
• Concordant score: A PSAT 10 score of 430+ or SAT score of 430+ in Evidence-Based Reading and Writing could substitute as a concordant score for graduation
• Retake policy: Students could retake the FSA EOC up to twice per year during designated testing windows

FSA vs FAST: What Changed

Florida's shift from FSA to FAST fundamentally changed how K-12 students are assessed:

Practice materials for both FSA and FAST are available at fsa florida and the fsa assessment practice test guide. Understanding both formats helps teachers and students navigate Florida's evolving assessment landscape.

How to Improve Your FSA / FAST Score

Whether preparing for a retake or FAST progress monitoring:

• Focus on close reading for ELA — both FSA and FAST heavily weight text evidence in answers
• For Math, review the Florida Math Standards progressions — each grade builds directly on the prior year
• Practice technology-enhanced items (TEI): drag-and-drop, table editing, multi-select — these differ from standard multiple choice
• Use released FSA items from FDOE's FAST/FSA item portal for authentic practice