A plain-language guide to what Florida students need to earn a standard high school diploma, the other ways to finish, and what to do if you’re behind.
Last checked: October 2026. Requirements can change, and some details depend on the year a student started 9th grade. Always confirm with your school counselor or the Florida Department of Education.
At a glance
| Credits for a standard diploma | 24 (18-credit options also exist) |
| Minimum GPA | 2.0 on a 4.0 scale |
| Required tests | Grade 10 English Language Arts and Algebra I end-of-course (EOC), or an approved concordant score |
| GED minimum age | 18, or 16–17 with an approved underage testing form |
The 24 credits
For students who entered 9th grade in 2023–24 or later, the 24 credits break down like this:
| Subject | Credits |
|---|---|
| English Language Arts | 4 |
| Mathematics | 4 |
| Science | 3 |
| Social Studies | 3 |
| Fine and Performing Arts, Speech and Debate, Career and Technical Education, or Practical Arts | 1 |
| Physical Education (with health) | 1 |
| Personal Financial Literacy | 0.5 |
| Electives | 7.5 |
| Total | 24 |
Students who started high school earlier may have slightly different elective and course requirements. Your counselor can tell you which set applies to you.
Required tests
- Pass Grade 10 English Language Arts, or earn an approved concordant score on another test such as the SAT or ACT.
- Pass the Algebra I end-of-course assessment, or earn an approved concordant score.
- End-of-course exams count toward your grade. If you take Algebra I, Geometry, Biology I, or U.S. History, the state EOC counts for 30 percent of your final course grade.
If you haven’t passed a required test yet, ask your counselor about retake dates and which concordant scores are accepted. Many students meet the requirement on a later attempt.
Other ways to earn a standard diploma
- 18-credit ACCEL option. The same core courses as the 24-credit diploma, with fewer electives and no physical education requirement.
- 18-credit Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathway. Core academic courses plus career-focused coursework, including industry certification or work-based learning.
- International Baccalaureate (IB) or AICE. Rigorous college-preparatory programs offered at some schools.
All of these lead to a standard Florida diploma. The 18-credit options can be a good fit for students who are behind on electives, so ask whether you qualify.
If you’re behind
- Ask for a credit review. Request a written summary of the credits you’ve earned, what’s missing, your GPA, and your test status.
- Ask about credit recovery. Many Florida districts offer online, evening, or summer recovery courses, including through Florida Virtual School.
- Ask whether an 18-credit option fits. If you’re short on electives, ACCEL or the CTE pathway may get you to graduation sooner.
- Ask about GPA recovery. If your GPA is below 2.0, ask whether retaking a course can replace a low grade.
GED in Florida
Florida’s high school equivalency diploma is earned by passing the GED test. The minimum age is 18.
Students who are 16 or 17 can test only after formally withdrawing from school. A parent or guardian must sign a notarized Florida Underage Testing Form, which is submitted with proof of withdrawal to the state’s High School Equivalency office. Your school district can help with the form, and you can reach the Florida GED testing office at 850-245-0449.
A GED is a respected credential, but it isn’t identical to a diploma for every college, employer, or military branch. Compare both before you withdraw.
GED vs. diploma: what’s different →
Questions to ask your counselor
- How many credits do I have, and how many do I still need?
- Have I met the Grade 10 ELA and Algebra I test requirements?
- What is my current GPA?
- Do I qualify for the 18-credit ACCEL or CTE pathway?
- What credit recovery options does our school offer?
- What is my expected graduation date?
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Official sources
- Florida Shines: Standard High School Diploma
- Florida Department of Education: High School Graduation Requirements
- Florida Department of Education: GED Underage Testing Information
Educational guidance only. Requirements vary by entry year and district and can change. Confirm details with your school counselor or the Florida Department of Education.