At a glance
California requires students to complete a set of required courses to earn a high school diploma — there is no exit exam (the CAHSEE was repealed in 2015). The state sets minimum course requirements, and districts frequently require more credits, so your local requirements are what ultimately matter.
Credit & course requirements
California’s state minimum includes required year-long courses across core subjects — typically three years of English, two of math (including Algebra I), two of science (biological and physical), three of social studies (world history, U.S. history, and a semester each of government and economics), one year of visual/performing arts, world language, or CTE, and two years of physical education. Districts set the total credit count (often well above the state floor) and may add requirements.
Testing to graduate
No graduation exam. California does not require a high school exit exam. Students still take state assessments (like the CAASPP/Smarter Balanced tests), but a passing score is not required to graduate.
Diploma types & honors
California issues a standard high school diploma. Honors and recognitions include the Golden State Seal Merit Diploma (for demonstrated mastery) and the State Seal of Biliteracy (for proficiency in English and another language). Individual districts may offer additional honors.
Alternative pathways
Students who need flexibility can pursue options like credit recovery, adult education, or the California High School Proficiency Exam (CHSPE), which provides an equivalent certificate. Talk to a counselor about the best path.
Other requirements
California has enacted a requirement for a personal finance course for graduation, phasing in for future graduating classes — confirm the current timeline with your district. Requirements can also include health and other locally set courses.
Tips for families
- Get your district’s exact listThe state sets minimums; your district may require more — ask the counselor
- Plan credits earlyMap four years of courses in 9th grade so nothing is missed
- Know the assessment rulesWhether a test is required to graduate, and the backup pathways
- Aim beyond the minimumCollege-bound students often need more than the graduation minimum
- Track progress yearlyCheck the transcript each year against the requirements
Frequently asked questions
- How many credits does California require?The state sets a minimum, but your district may require more — confirm locally.
- Does California require a test to graduate?No — California has no exit exam; a passing test score is not required to graduate.
- Are there different diploma types?Yes — plus honors designations and seals; see the diplomas section.
- What if my student is behind on credits?Talk to the counselor about credit recovery and alternative pathways.
- Where do I confirm the exact requirements?Your school counselor, district, and the state department of education.
At a glance
- Exit exam?No (repealed in 2015)
- Based onCourse/credit completion
- State minimumSpecific required courses
- DistrictsOften require more credits
- HonorsGolden State Seal; Seal of Biliteracy
- Confirm withYour district
Where to confirm
Confirm your student’s exact requirements with the state and your district: