Competency-based learning, or competency-based education, often abbreviated as CBE, is a framework for instruction and assessment focused on students demonstrating defined learning objectives or competencies rather than content completion and curriculum schedules.  Students in such a framework typically work at their own pace, using learned knowledge and skills to demonstrate mastery of a subject. At some institutions of higher education, competency-based education courses begin and end throughout the year, independent of a traditional academic calendar.