Discover: How To Meet Graduation Requirements

California requires that students pass a minimum number of years of these important subjects:

• Three years of English
• Two years of mathematics, including Algebra I
• Two years of science, including biological and physical science
• Three years of history/social science, including (1) U.S. history and geography; (2) world history, culture, and geography; (3) one semester of American government; and (4) one semester of economics
• One year of a language other than English or one year of visual and performing arts
• Two years of physical education

However, most school districts require more than these requirements to graduate, including completing additional years of these subjects, electives, and sometimes community service hours. Check the school website for your child’s specific graduation requirements.

Meeting these minimum requirements may not be enough to meet the “a-g” requirements that qualify your child to attend a four-year college or university. See Essential 8 for more information.

Your child will receive “credits” for each semester of a class in which they receive a passing grade (D or above). This is usually 5 per semester or 10 per year. Your school district will have a specific number of credits that are required for graduation. For example, Garden Grove Unified School District requires students to earn 220 credits.

Now let’s review what your child can expect in each year of high school, along with some items for you to discuss and complete together as they go.