In New York, earning a high school diploma is an essential milestone that requires meeting specific credit requirements set by the New York State Education Department (NYSED). Understanding these requirements is crucial for students and parents as they navigate the path to graduation. This article breaks down how many credits are needed to graduate high school in New York, covering core subjects, electives, and additional criteria.

How Many Credits Are Required to Graduate High School in NY?

To earn a standard Regents Diploma in New York, students must complete a minimum of 22 credits across various subjects. For students aiming for an Advanced Regents Diploma, additional requirements apply, including advanced coursework and exams. Below is the breakdown of the required credits:

Core Subject Credit Requirements (Regents Diploma)

  1. English Language Arts – 4 Credits
    Students must complete four years of English coursework, focusing on reading, writing, and communication skills.
  2. Social Studies – 4 Credits
    Social studies requirements include:
  • S. History(1 credit)
  • Global History and Geography(2 credits)
  • Government(0.5 credit)
  • Economics(0.5 credit)
  1.  Mathematics – 3 Credits
    Students must earn three math credits, which typically include:
  • Algebra I
  • Geometry
  • Algebra IIor an equivalent advanced course
  1. Science – 3 Credits
    Science credits must include:
  • Life Science(e.g., Biology)
  • Physical Science(e.g., Chemistry or Physics)
  • One additional science credit
  1. Physical Education – 2 Credits
    Physical education is required for all four years of high school, with students earning 0.5 credit per year.
  2. Health Education – 0.5 Credit
    A half-credit in health education is required to promote understanding of wellness and healthy living.
  3. The Arts – 1 Credit
    This requirement can be fulfilled through courses in visual arts, music, dance, or theater.
  4. World Languages – 1 Credit
    Students must earn at least one credit in a world language, although an Advanced Regents Diploma requires additional language credits.
  5. Electives – 3.5 Credits
    Students can choose electives based on their interests and career goals, such as technology, business, or fine arts.

Additional Requirements for Graduation in NY

In addition to earning 22 credits, students must also pass specific exams to meet New York State graduation requirements.

Regents Exams (Standard Diploma)

Students must pass 5 Regents Exams with a score of 65 or higher. These exams include:

  1. English Language Arts (ELA)
  2. Mathematics(Algebra I, Geometry, or Algebra II)
  3. Science(Living Environment, Earth Science, Chemistry, or Physics)
  4. Social Studies(U.S. History or Global History and Geography)
  5. One additional exam(may be in another subject area or a state-approved alternative assessment)

Advanced Regents Diploma Requirements

To earn an Advanced Regents Diploma, students must:

  • Pass additional Regents Exams in Mathand Science (for a total of 8 exams).
  • Complete 3 credits of a World Languageand pass a corresponding language proficiency exam (this requirement may be waived if students complete a 5-unit sequence in the arts or career and technical education).

Electives and Specialized Pathways

Elective courses give students the opportunity to explore their interests and career aspirations. Examples of elective subjects include:

  • Technology and Engineering: Coding, Robotics, Web Design
  • Business and Marketing: Entrepreneurship, Accounting, Economics
  • Arts and Music: Photography, Instrumental Music, Theater
  • Career and Technical Education (CTE): Courses in fields like healthcare, culinary arts, and automotive technology

New York also offers pathway options that allow students to focus on specific areas of interest, such as STEM, humanities, the arts, or CTE.

Alternative Pathways to Graduation

New York State provides alternative pathways for students who may not meet the standard requirements through traditional means. These pathways include:

  1. CDOS Credential (Career Development and Occupational Studies)
    This pathway allows students to graduate by demonstrating career readiness through work-based learning experiences, internships, or career-focused coursework.
  2. Appeal Process
    Students who score between 60 and 64 on a Regents Exam may file an appeal to meet graduation requirements.
  3. Local Diploma Option
    Certain students, such as those with disabilities, may qualify for a Local Diploma, which has modified requirements compared to the Regents Diploma.

Tips for Staying on Track to Graduate in NY

  1. Work Closely with School Counselors
    Regularly review your transcript and ensure you are meeting credit and exam requirements.
  2. Plan Your Electives Strategically
    Choose electives that align with your interests, career goals, or college aspirations.
  3. Prepare for Regents Exams
    Use study guides, online resources, and practice exams to prepare for the required Regents assessments.
  4. Stay Informed About Graduation Pathways
    Discuss alternative options with school staff if you encounter challenges meeting standard requirements.
  5. Take Advantage of Extra Resources
    Seek tutoring, after-school programs, or summer courses if you need extra support in any subject area.

To graduate high school in New York, students must earn 22 credits across core subjects, pass at least 5 Regents Exams, and meet additional criteria for specialized diplomas like the Advanced Regents Diploma. Understanding these requirements early on can help students stay on track and make informed decisions about their coursework and graduation goals. With careful planning and the right resources, earning a high school diploma in New York is an achievable milestone.