At a glance
Louisiana offers two diploma pathways — the college-prep TOPS University diploma and the Jump Start Career diploma — each requiring about 23–24 units. Louisiana is one of the few states that still requires passing end-of-course exams to graduate.
Credit & course requirements
The TOPS University diploma (24 units) is college-prep: 4 English, 4 math, 4 science, 4 social studies, 2 world language, 1 arts, 1.5 PE/health, and electives. The Jump Start Career diploma (23 units) swaps in a career/technical sequence with an industry credential.
Testing to graduate
Yes — students must pass LEAP end-of-course exams (across English, math, science, and social studies) to graduate, earning a required composite. Louisiana ties graduation to these assessment results.
Diploma types & honors
The two diploma pathways (TOPS University and Jump Start Career) let students choose a college-prep or career-technical route, both leading to a standard diploma. The Seal of Biliteracy is available.
Alternative pathways
The Jump Start Career diploma builds in industry-based credentials — a strong option for career-bound students.
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 Louisiana require?The state sets a minimum, but your district may require more — confirm locally.
- Does Louisiana require a test to graduate?Yes — you must pass LEAP end-of-course exams 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
- DiplomasTOPS University & Jump Start Career
- Units23—24
- Exit exam?Yes — LEAP EOC exams
- Confirm withYour district
Where to confirm
Confirm your student’s exact requirements with the state and your district: