Why do we need a final exam if we passed all the courses?

The final exam, known as the CFx, serves an important purpose even if you have successfully passed all the individual courses. Here's why:

1. Synthesis and Application: The CFx is designed to evaluate your ability to synthesize and apply the knowledge and skills you have gained throughout all five SCx courses. It assesses your understanding of the broader concepts and your capability to integrate the learning across various topics.

2. Credential Equivalence: The MicroMaster credential, which you can earn by successfully completing the SCx courses and the CFx, is designed to be equivalent to one semester of work in the MIT SCM on-campus program. By including a final exam, the credential ensures that you have demonstrated the necessary proficiency and mastery of the subject matter.

3. Application Requirements: If you plan to apply for competitive admission to the MIT SCM program or other universities that recognize the MicroMaster credential for campus credit, the final exam serves as a comprehensive assessment of your knowledge and abilities. It helps meet the application requirements and provides universities with a standardized measure of your aptitude in the field.

In summary, the CFx serves as an assessment that tests your ability to synthesize and apply the learning from all the SCx courses. It ensures the MicroMaster credential's equivalence to on-campus work at MIT SCM and helps fulfill the application requirements for admission to the MIT SCM program or other universities that accept the credential for campus credit.