At a glance
Maine sets minimum course requirements but leaves much to districts. There is no exit exam. Maine previously mandated a proficiency-based diploma, but that statewide mandate was repealed, returning flexibility to districts.
Credit & course requirements
Maine’s state minimum includes 4 English, 2 math, 2 science, 2 social studies (including U.S. history and government), 1 fine arts, 1 health/PE, and additional locally set requirements. Districts set the total credits.
Testing to graduate
No exit exam. Maine students take state assessments, but a passing score is not required to graduate.
Diploma types & honors
Maine issues a standard diploma, with the Seal of Biliteracy available. Districts may add honors.
Alternative pathways
Dual enrollment and CTE offer accelerated routes; the Maine Free College Scholarship helps community-college-bound students (see ME financial aid).
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 Maine require?The state sets a minimum, but your district may require more — confirm locally.
- Does Maine require a test to graduate?No — Maine 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
- ModelState minimums + local control
- Exit exam?No
- NoteProficiency-based mandate repealed
- DistrictsSet specifics
- Confirm withYour district
Where to confirm
Confirm your student’s exact requirements with the state and your district: