The Tennessee Readiness Certificate (TRC) is a credential issued by the Tennessee Department of Education that recognizes and celebrates the academic achievement of students in grades 4-8 who demonstrate mastery of core academic standards. The certificate is based on performance on the Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program (CAP) tests in the areas of English language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. There are three different types of Tennessee Readiness Certificates: a Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3. Level 1 is earned by students who demonstrate a basic level of mastery of the Tennessee state standards, while Level 2 is awarded to those who demonstrate a higher level of mastery. Level 3 is the highest level and is reserved for students who show an exceptional level of mastery of the state standards.