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High School Graduation Requirements

Requirements for high school graduation and university admission.

In order to graduate from California public high schools, students must complete specified state and local graduation requirements. Local school districts have the authority and responsibility for establishing high school graduation requirements. These requirements vary among school districts. However, California Education Code (EC) Section 51225.3 specifies that students must pass a minimum set of required courses and an exit examination. These requirements should be viewed as minimums and support for the regulations specified by the local school boards.

High school students interested in attending a California public university after graduation must have completed the required freshman admission course requirements while in high school.

The High School Graduation Requirements - CalEdFacts page provides an additional overview.


California State Minimum High School Graduation Requirements
The EC Section 51225.3 identifies the courses that all students must complete to receive a California high school diploma.

Courses Required for California Public University Admission
Available Translations for the Courses Required for University Admission
The California State University and the University of California have established minimum freshman eligibility requirements that include completion of 15 year-long college preparatory courses.

Foreign Exchange Students
California EC Section 51225.5(a)(1) allows local school districts to provide graduation recognition to foreign students in foreign exchange programs who complete their senior year in a California high school.

High School Graduation Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding high school graduation requirements.

For specific information about graduation requirements for individual schools, please contact your local school district office. You may use the California Department of Education's School Directory to find your local school district office.

The State Board of Education has the power to waive certain requirements.

Questions:   High School Innovations and Initiatives Office | HSIIO@cde.ca.gov | 916-319-0893
Last Reviewed: Wednesday, December 07, 2022
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