At a glance
Indiana graduation combines a diploma (credits) with Graduation Pathways — and there’s no single exit exam. Indiana has also redesigned its diploma around readiness, phasing in for future classes — so confirm what applies to your student.
Credit & course requirements
Indiana’s diploma frameworks (historically the Core 40 and its Academic Honors and Technical Honors versions) require roughly 40+ credits across English, math, science, social studies, and electives. The redesigned diploma emphasizes readiness and work-based learning — confirm the current framework with your school.
Testing to graduate
No single exit exam. Indiana uses Graduation Pathways: earn a diploma, show employability skills (via a project, work-based learning, or service), and demonstrate postsecondary readiness through one of several options (a state test score, ACT/SAT, AP/IB/dual credit, a CTE credential, ASVAB, or a locally created pathway).
Diploma types & honors
Indiana offers diploma designations (Honors, Technical Honors) and readiness seals under the redesigned diploma, plus the Seal of Biliteracy.
Alternative pathways
The Graduation Pathways flexibility (multiple ways to show readiness) is Indiana’s family-friendly design.
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 Indiana require?The state sets a minimum, but your district may require more — confirm locally.
- Does Indiana require a test to graduate?No single exit exam — Indiana uses flexible Graduation Pathways to show readiness.
- 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
- FrameworkIndiana diploma + Graduation Pathways
- Exit exam?No single exit exam
- PathwaysDiploma + employability + readiness
- NewRedesigned diploma (phasing in)
- Confirm withYour district
Where to confirm
Confirm your student’s exact requirements with the state and your district: