What "College & Career Ready" Means

What does it mean to be "College and Career Ready"?

College and Career Readiness as defined by the state: The skills and knowledge that enable students to be successful in entry-level credit-bearing courses or postsecondary education training at a State community college. (MD Code, Education, § 7-205.1)

Why does it matter?

The College and Career Readiness (CCR) Standard is your roadmap to get there—early, prepared, and empowered.

By meeting the CCR Standard, you’re proving you’ve got the skills, mindset, and drive to thrive after high school. Whether you want to be an innovator, a dental specialist, an entrepreneur, or anything in between, CCR puts the power in your hands to choose your next chapter. Think of it like this: CCR isn’t just a requirement. It’s a milestone, a checkpoint that says you're ready.

The CCR Standard is part of Maryland’s plan to build a world-class education system and it starts with you. 

College and Career Readiness Indicators

At the end of 10th grade, to meet the initial determination of college and career ready students must achieve the following...

What Can 9th Graders Do to Become College & Career Ready?

College and career readiness starts with the habits you build now.

Here are key skills and mindsets to focus on throughout your freshman year:

• Take state and classroom assessments seriously. They show your progress and help you understand where to grow.

• Review your score reports with your teachers or counselor to identify strengths and areas for improvement.

• Build strong study habits: take organized notes, review them daily, and plan ahead for tests.

• Strengthen reading and writing skills: these are essential for every career path and subject area.

• Ask for help early: meet with teachers when something feels unclear.

• Practice time management: balance homework, rest, and activities to stay consistent.

• Set academic and personal goals each quarter and track your progress toward them.

• Develop communication skills: learn to email teachers professionally and collaborate respectfully with classmates.

• Show persistence. Mistakes and challenges are part of learning; the key is to keep improving.

Every small step you take toward these habits brings you closer to being truly college and career ready.