In 2003, Texas implemented a new test, the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS), in grades 3 through 11, to replace the Texas Assessment of Academic Skills (TAAS). The TAKS is believed to be more rigorous as well as better aligned with the state standards. The TAKS tests whether students in grades 3 through 11 have mastered the state's learning standards in reading, writing, math, social science and science.

There are currently two passing standards for the test: Met Standard (passing) and Commended Performance (high performance). Since TAKS is a new, more rigorous test, the state is phasing in tougher passing standards for "Met Standard" over a three-year period. This means that in the first year, students will need to correctly answer three to six fewer questions (depending on the subject being tested) in order to pass than when the test is fully implemented in 2005.