At a glance
Georgia requires 23 units to graduate — and there is no exit exam (the Georgia High School Graduation Test was eliminated). End-of-course Georgia Milestones assessments count toward the course grade rather than serving as a separate graduation gate.
Credit & course requirements
Georgia’s 23 units include 4 English, 4 math, 4 science, 3 social studies, 1 CTE/world language/fine arts, 1 health/PE, and electives. Districts may set additional requirements.
Testing to graduate
No exit exam. Students take Georgia Milestones end-of-course assessments in certain courses, and the score counts as part of the course grade — but there is no separate test to pass to graduate.
Diploma types & honors
Georgia issues a standard high school diploma. Recognitions include the Seal of Biliteracy and Georgia’s career/graduation seals; high achievers may qualify for HOPE/Zell Miller scholarship eligibility (see Georgia financial aid).
Alternative pathways
Georgia offers pathways through CTE, dual enrollment, and Advanced Placement/IB, and credit recovery for students who fall behind.
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 Georgia require?The state sets a minimum, but your district may require more — confirm locally.
- Does Georgia require a test to graduate?No — Georgia has no exit exam; Milestones scores count toward the course grade only.
- 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
- Units23 required
- Exit exam?No (eliminated)
- MilestonesCount toward course grade
- SealsBiliteracy & others
- DistrictsMay require more
- Confirm withYour district
Where to confirm
Confirm your student’s exact requirements with the state and your district: