At a glance
Nebraska is a strong local-control state: it sets some minimum requirements, but districts determine most of the credits and courses. There is no exit exam.
Credit & course requirements
Nebraska sets minimum instruction requirements (including English, math, science, and social studies), but the total credits and specific courses are set by districts. Confirm your district’s requirements — most require roughly 200 credit-hours (about 24 year-long credits).
Testing to graduate
No exit exam. Nebraska students take state assessments (NSCAS and the ACT), but a passing score is not required to graduate.
Diploma types & honors
Nebraska issues a standard diploma, with the Seal of Biliteracy available. Districts may add honors.
Alternative pathways
Dual credit, AP, and CTE offer accelerated pathways; see the Nebraska Career Scholarship (in our financial-aid guide).
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 Nebraska require?The state sets a minimum, but your district may require more — confirm locally.
- Does Nebraska require a test to graduate?No — Nebraska 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
- DistrictsSet most requirements
- Confirm withYour district
Where to confirm
Confirm your student’s exact requirements with the state and your district: