At a glance
Maryland requires a state minimum of 21 credits, participation in state MCAP assessments, and a distinctive student service-learning requirement. Districts (Maryland has 24) often require more.
Credit & course requirements
Maryland’s 21-credit minimum includes 4 English, 3 math (including algebra and geometry content), 3 science, 3 social studies, 1 fine arts, 1 PE, 0.5 health, 1 technology education, and electives (with a world-language or advanced-tech/CTE requirement). Districts set higher totals.
Testing to graduate
Students take the Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP) tests. Historically Maryland has required students to take (and meet a standard or use a Bridge/alternative for) these assessments — the exact rules have been in transition, so confirm the current requirement with your district.
Diploma types & honors
Maryland issues a standard diploma, with the Seal of Biliteracy and honors options available.
Alternative pathways
A Bridge Plan / alternative lets students who don’t meet an assessment standard demonstrate proficiency another way.
Other requirements
Maryland famously requires 75 hours of student service-learning (community service) to graduate — a distinctive statewide requirement. Confirm how your district structures it.
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 Maryland require?The state sets a minimum, but your district may require more — confirm locally.
- Does Maryland require a test to graduate?Students take MCAP assessments; requirements have been transitioning — plus 75 hours of service-learning are required.
- 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
- Credits21 (state minimum)
- AssessmentsMCAP (take; alternatives if not passed)
- Distinctive75 hours of service-learning
- DistrictsOften require more
- Confirm withYour district
Where to confirm
Confirm your student’s exact requirements with the state and your district: