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GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

In New York State, there are three types of diplomas: a local diploma, a Regents diploma, and an Advanced Regents diploma. All students can earn a Regents or Advanced Regents diploma; however only students who meet specific criteria are eligible to graduate with a local diploma, which allows students to graduate with lower exam scores. The type of diploma your child earns depends on his or her course credits and scores on specific Regents exams, as shown in the table below. An Advanced Regents diploma lets students demonstrate additional skills in math, science, and languages other than English. If you think your child is not earning the credits she or he needs to graduate, please speak to your school’s guidance counselor immediately. 

Students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)

In addition to the Regents or Advanced Regents diploma, students with IEPs have other graduation options available:

  • The local diploma, which allows students who meet specific criteria to graduate with lower exam scores; and

  • Two non-diploma credentials that allow students with disabilities to demonstrate career-readiness skills. Note that these credentials are not equivalent to a high school diploma:

    • The Career Development and Occupational Studies Commencement (CDOS) credential allows students to demonstrate mastery of the academic and personal behaviors required in the workplace. It can serve in addition to a high school diploma or as a standalone credential.

    • Students who are alternately assessed can earn the Skills and Achievement credential which, although not equivalent to a diploma, supports the attainment of career-readiness skills.

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Read more about graduation requirements for students with disabilities.

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Detailed Graduation Requirements

Graduation requirements are determined at the State level and vary according to the year a student first entered 9th grade, as well as by other demographic factors. Please click on the following links for complete, historical information on graduation requirements:

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