At a glance
Michigan graduation follows the Michigan Merit Curriculum (MMC) — a set of required courses with no exit exam. It’s known for including Algebra II, two years of world language, an online learning experience, and a financial-literacy requirement.
Credit & course requirements
The MMC requires 4 English, 4 math (including Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II), 3 science (including Biology and a physics/chemistry), 3 social studies, 1 health/PE, 1 visual/performing/applied arts, 2 years of world language (or an equivalent), and an online learning experience. A half-credit of personal finance is required (phasing in). Districts set the total credit count.
Testing to graduate
No exit exam. Michigan students take state assessments (M-STEP and the SAT), but a passing score is not required to graduate.
Diploma types & honors
Michigan issues a standard diploma, with the Seal of Biliteracy available. A Personal Curriculum can modify some MMC requirements for individual students.
Alternative pathways
The Personal Curriculum option lets a student (with the school and family) modify certain MMC requirements to fit their needs and goals.
Other requirements
Michigan requires an online learning experience and (phasing in) a half-credit of personal finance. Confirm details 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 Michigan require?The state sets a minimum, but your district may require more — confirm locally.
- Does Michigan require a test to graduate?No — Michigan 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
- FrameworkMichigan Merit Curriculum
- Exit exam?No
- IncludesAlgebra II, 2 world language
- AlsoOnline learning; financial literacy
- DistrictsSet total credits
- Confirm withYour district
Where to confirm
Confirm your student’s exact requirements with the state and your district: