At a glance
North Dakota requires 22 units with no exit exam, organized around the Choice Ready framework — students build essential skills plus readiness in a post-secondary, workforce, or military track.
Credit & course requirements
North Dakota’s 22 units include 4 English, 3 math, 3 science, 3 social studies, 1 PE/health, and electives (with a CTE, arts, or world-language focus). Districts may require more.
Testing to graduate
No exit exam. North Dakota students take state assessments (including the ACT), but a passing score is not required to graduate.
Diploma types & honors
North Dakota issues a standard diploma, with Choice Ready recognition and the Seal of Biliteracy available.
Alternative pathways
The Choice Ready framework has students demonstrate essential skills plus readiness in one of three areas: post-secondary, workforce, or military — a flexible, goal-oriented design.
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 North Dakota require?The state sets a minimum, but your district may require more — confirm locally.
- Does North Dakota require a test to graduate?No — North Dakota 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
- Units22
- Exit exam?No
- FrameworkChoice Ready
- Ready inPost-secondary, workforce or military
- Confirm withYour district
Where to confirm
Confirm your student’s exact requirements with the state and your district: