In New Jersey, students need to earn a minimum of 120 credits to graduate from high school. These credits are divided across different subject areas to ensure students gain a well-rounded education. Specific requirements include:
- English Language Arts (20 credits): These courses can enhance reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills.
- Mathematics (15 credits): Students must complete courses in Algebra I, Geometry, and another math course that builds upon these.
- Science (15 credits): Courses in Biology and at least two other lab sciences are required.
- Social Studies (15 credits): This includes 10 credits in U.S. History and 5 credits in World History.
- World Languages (5 credits): Students need to complete at least one year of a world language.
- Physical Education & Health (3.75 credits per year enrolled): This requirement ensures students stay active and understand health principles.
- Visual & Performing Arts (5 credits): This covers courses like music, theater, and fine arts.
- 21st Century Life and Careers or Career-Technical Education (5 credits): These courses prepare students for future career paths and teach essential skills.
- Financial Literacy (2.5 credits): A course in personal finance management is mandatory.
Elective Credits
Beyond the core subjects, students are encouraged to take electives to fulfill the remainder of the 120 credits. Elective courses allow students to explore interests and focus on areas that align with their future goals, such as advanced sciences, technology courses, or humanities.
Online Schools and Credit Flexibility
For students who require more flexibility, online schools like Obridge Academy offer accredited courses that meet New Jersey’s high school credit requirements. This allows students to take classes at their own pace, manage personal or extracurricular schedules, or recover missed credits. Whether you are a traditional or non-traditional student, online schools provide a valuable opportunity to complete required courses while balancing other life responsibilities.
Graduation Requirements Beyond Credits
In addition to earning 120 credits, students in New Jersey are also required to demonstrate proficiency in math and English through standardized testing, such as the New Jersey Student Learning Assessments (NJSLA), or by meeting other criteria, such as SAT or ACT scores. There are alternative pathways for students who may struggle with standardized tests to ensure that all students have the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge in multiple ways.
Online schools like Obridge Academy also prepare students to meet these assessment requirements by offering personalized support and resources for standardized test preparation.
Why Consider an Online High School?
Choosing an online high school, such as Obridge Academy, can be beneficial for students who need flexibility due to personal circumstances. For example, athletes with rigorous schedules and students who are aiming to accelerate their education. Obridge Academy provides accredited middle and high school courses that not only meet but often exceed the state requirements. Students can graduate fully prepared for the next phase of life—whether that’s college, career, or further training after graduating from Obridge Academy.
By enrolling in Obridge Academy, students have access to quality education that aligns with New Jersey’s high school diploma requirements to make sure they can graduate on time and with confidence.