A plain-language guide to what California students need to earn a high school diploma, the other ways to finish, and what to do if you’re behind.
Last checked: October 2026. California sets minimum courses, and each district adds its own requirements. Always confirm with your school counselor or the California Department of Education.
At a glance
| Who sets the credit total | Your school district (the state sets minimum courses) |
| State exit exam | None required |
| New requirements coming | Ethnic studies (class of 2030) and personal finance (class of 2031) |
| High school equivalency minimum age | 18, or 17 in some cases (GED or HiSET) |
State minimum courses
Under California Education Code Section 51225.3, every student earning a California diploma must complete these courses in grades 9–12. Each course is one year unless noted.
| Subject | Requirement |
|---|---|
| English | 3 courses |
| Mathematics | 2 courses, including Algebra I |
| Science | 2 courses, including biological and physical science |
| Social Studies | 3 courses: U.S. history and geography; world history, culture, and geography; one semester of American government and civics; and one semester of economics |
| Visual or Performing Arts, World Language, or Career Technical Education | 1 course |
| Physical Education | 2 courses, unless exempted |
| Ethnic Studies | 1 semester, starting with the class of 2030 |
| Personal Finance | 1 semester, starting with the class of 2031 |
District requirements
Most districts require more than the state minimum, including additional courses and a total number of credits. Many districts count a year-long course as 10 credits and require somewhere in the low 200s in total, but the exact number varies. Your counselor or your school’s course catalog will have your district’s requirements.
Graduation vs. college eligibility (A–G)
The University of California and California State University require a separate set of “A–G” courses for admission. Some districts make A–G their graduation standard, but meeting the minimum to graduate doesn’t always mean a student is eligible for UC or CSU. Ask your counselor which track you’re on.
Flexibility built into the law
- Alternative ways to earn credit. Districts must offer alternative means of completing required courses, which can include independent study, career technical education, supervised work experience, credit from a college course, or demonstrating skills.
- Students in foster care or experiencing homelessness. A student who transfers schools after the end of their second year of high school may be exempt from district requirements beyond the state minimum, unless the district finds the student can reasonably complete them in four years.
If you’re behind
- Ask for a credit review. Request a written summary of your district credits, the state courses you’ve completed, and what’s missing.
- Ask about credit recovery. Many districts offer online, summer, or evening recovery courses.
- Ask about continuation or independent study programs. California’s continuation high schools and independent study options are designed for students who need a different schedule or setting.
- Ask about adult education. If you’re 18 or older, adult schools can help you finish a diploma or prepare for an equivalency test.
High school equivalency (GED or HiSET) in California
California approves two tests, the GED and the HiSET, for a California High School Equivalency Certificate. They’re open to people 18 and older, and to 17-year-olds in some situations. Ask your district or an adult school whether you qualify before 18.
Be careful with test-prep programs that issue their own “diplomas.” Only the official GED and HiSET providers can issue a California High School Equivalency Certificate. Free prep is available through the California Adult Education Provider Directory.
An equivalency certificate is a respected credential, but it isn’t identical to a diploma for every college, employer, or military branch. Compare both before you leave school.
GED vs. diploma: what’s different →
Questions to ask your counselor
- How many district credits do I have, and how many do I still need?
- Which state-required courses am I still missing?
- Am I on track for A–G, and does that matter for my plans?
- What credit recovery, continuation, or independent study options are available?
- Do any alternative ways of earning credit apply to me?
- What is my expected graduation date?
Not sure where to start?
Answer five quick questions and get a personal next-step plan.
Official sources
- California Department of Education: State Minimum High School Graduation Requirements
- California Department of Education: Courses Required for California Public University (A–G)
- California Department of Education: High School Equivalency Tests
Educational guidance only. Requirements vary by district and can change. Confirm details with your school counselor or the California Department of Education.