The movement to improve U.S. K-12 education through the implementation of the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) presents a tremendous opportunity for higher education to experience reduced remediation and increased degree completion. In order for the CCSS to realize their promise; however, higher education must be a full partner with K-12 in their implementation. This document from the Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium provides guidance for state higher education leaders on one crucial aspect of implementation: the role that state systems of higher education must play to build toward recognition of the Smarter Balanced assessment as evidence that students are ready for entry-level, credit-bearing courses and should be exempted from remediation in English language arts (ELA) and mathematics. Where broader issues of CCSS implementation intersect with this primary focus, they are addressed.