Graduation Requirements

As students embark on their high school journey in New York City public schools, understanding the graduation requirements becomes essential. The New York State Department of Education sets specific guidelines that students must meet to earn their high school diploma.

In New York State, students can earn three types of diplomas:

A Regents diploma
An advanced Regents diploma
A local diploma

All of these diplomas are valid high school diplomas. All students can earn a Regents or advanced Regents diploma. An advanced Regents diploma lets students show additional skills in math, science, and languages other than English. Only some students who meet specific criteria can graduate with a local diploma, with lower exam scores.

To earn a diploma, students must earn specific course credits and pass specific Regents exams. If you believe your student is not on track to graduate, please speak to your child’s guidance counselor immediately.

Regents Diploma

Examination Requirements

Students must achieve a score of 65 or higher on these five exams to earn a Regents diploma.

English Language Arts (ELA)
Any math exam (Algebra I, Geometry, or Algebra II/Trigonometry)
Any social studies exam (Global History and Geography or U.S. History and Government)
Any science exam (Living Environment, Chemistry, Earth Science, or Physics)
Any additional Regents exam, or another option approved by the State

Credit Requirements

Students need 44 credits in these subject areas to earn a Regents diploma.

8 credits in core English
8 credits in social studies, including:
    4 credits in Global History
    2 credits in U.S. History
    1 credit in Participation in Government
    1 credit in Economics
6 credits in math, including:
    At least 2 credits in advanced math (for example, Geometry or Algebra II)
6 credits in science, including:
    2 credits in any life science
    2 credits in any physical science
    2 credits in any life science or physical science
2 credits in World Languages
4 credits in physical education, every year in specific ways
1 credit in health education
2 credits in arts education, including visual arts, music, dance, and theater
7 credits in electives

Advanced Regents Diploma

Credit Requirements

Students need 44 credits in these subject areas to earn an Advanced Regents diploma. This is the same total number of credits as a Regents diploma, but with more courses in a language other than English (LOTE) and fewer elective courses.

8 credits in core English
8 credits in social studies, including:
    4 credits in Global History
    2 credits in U.S. History
    1 credit in Participation in Government
    1 credit in Economics
6 credits in math, including:
    At least 2 credits in advanced math (for example, Geometry or Algebra II)
6 credits in science, including:
    2 credits in any life science
    credits in any physical science
    2 credits in any life science or physical science
6 credits in World Languages
4 credits in physical education, every year in specific ways
1 credit in health education
2 credits in arts education, including visual arts, music, dance, and theater
3 credits in electives

Students only need two World Language credits if they are earning an arts or CTE endorsement. Some students who have a disability that makes it challenging to learn a language can earn credits in other subjects instead of World Languages.

Additional Options for Students with Disabilities

All students can earn a Regents or advanced Regents diploma. Some students also have the option to earn a third type of diploma called the local diploma. This option allows certain students to graduate with lower exam scores. Some students with severe disabilities can earn the Skills and Achievement credential instead of a diploma. This credential recognizes students’ achievements in academics, career development, and other foundational skills. It is not proof of graduation. For more information, visit the After High School page for students with disabilities.