At a glance
Washington, D.C. requires 24 credits and a distinctive 100 hours of community service to graduate, with no exit exam. Requirements are set by the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE).
Credit & course requirements
D.C.’s 24 Carnegie units include 4 English, 4 math, 4 science (with labs), 4 social studies, 2 world language, 1.5 PE/health, 0.5 art, 0.5 music, and electives.
Testing to graduate
No exit exam. D.C. students take state assessments, but a passing score is not required to graduate.
Diploma types & honors
D.C. issues a standard diploma, with the Seal of Biliteracy available. Strong records support DCTAG and DC scholarship eligibility (see DC financial aid).
Alternative pathways
Dual enrollment and AP offer accelerated routes; credit recovery helps students who fall behind.
Other requirements
D.C. famously requires 100 hours of community service to graduate — a distinctive requirement. Confirm how your school 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 Washington DC require?The state sets a minimum, but your district may require more — confirm locally.
- Does Washington DC require a test to graduate?No — D.C. has no exit exam, but students must complete 100 hours of community service.
- 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
- Credits24 (Carnegie units)
- Exit exam?No
- Distinctive100 hours of community service
- AgencyOSSE
- Confirm withYour school
Where to confirm
Confirm your student’s exact requirements with the state and your district: