At a glance
Illinois requires students to complete required courses to graduate — there is no exit exam. The state sets minimum course requirements (including civics), and districts commonly add more.
Credit & course requirements
Illinois’ state minimums include 4 years of English, 3 of math, 2 of science, 2 of social studies (including U.S. history and a semester of civics), 1 year of music/art/foreign language/CTE, and additional required areas (like health and physical education). Districts set the total and may require more.
Testing to graduate
No graduation exam. Illinois does not require an exit exam. Students take state assessments (including the SAT for accountability), but a passing score isn’t required to graduate.
Diploma types & honors
Illinois issues a standard high school diploma, with the State Seal of Biliteracy and Seal of Civic Readiness available. Districts may offer honors recognitions.
Other requirements
Illinois requires a semester of civics, consumer education (which covers financial literacy), and health/PE. Confirm the full list with your district.
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 Illinois require?The state sets a minimum, but your district may require more — confirm locally.
- Does Illinois require a test to graduate?No — Illinois 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
- Based onCourse/credit completion
- CivicsRequired course
- AlsoConsumer education / financial literacy
- DistrictsOften require more
- Confirm withYour district
Where to confirm
Confirm your student’s exact requirements with the state and your district: