At a glance
South Dakota requires 22 units with no exit exam. Students can earn Advanced or Career endorsements, and personal finance is part of the requirements.
Credit & course requirements
South Dakota’s 22 units include 4 English, 3 math, 3 science, 3 social studies, 1 world language/CTE/fine arts, 0.5 personal finance/economics, 0.5 PE, 0.5 health, and electives. Districts may require more.
Testing to graduate
No exit exam. South Dakota students take state assessments (including the SAT/ACT), but a passing score is not required to graduate.
Diploma types & honors
South Dakota issues a standard diploma, with Advanced and Career endorsements and the Seal of Biliteracy available. Strong records support Opportunity/Build Dakota programs (see SD financial aid).
Alternative pathways
Dual credit, AP, and CTE offer accelerated and career-focused pathways.
Other requirements
South Dakota requires a personal finance component. 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 South Dakota require?The state sets a minimum, but your district may require more — confirm locally.
- Does South Dakota require a test to graduate?No — South 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
- EndorsementsAdvanced & Career
- AlsoPersonal finance
- Confirm withYour district
Where to confirm
Confirm your student’s exact requirements with the state and your district: