A plain-language guide to what Texas 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. Requirements can change, and districts may add local requirements. Always confirm with your school counselor or the Texas Education Agency.
At a glance
| Graduation plan | Foundation High School Program |
| Credits | 22 minimum, or 26 with an endorsement (the default for most students) |
| Required tests | Five STAAR end-of-course (EOC) exams |
| Financial aid form | Complete the FAFSA or TAFSA, or submit an opt-out form |
| High school equivalency minimum age | 18, or 17 with parent or guardian consent |
The Foundation High School Program
Every Texas public school student graduates under the Foundation High School Program. The 22-credit foundation includes:
| Subject | Credits |
|---|---|
| English Language Arts | 4 |
| Mathematics | 3 |
| Science | 3 |
| Social Studies | 3 |
| Languages Other Than English | 2 |
| Physical Education | 1 |
| Fine Arts | 1 |
| Electives | 5 |
| Total | 22 |
Some districts require additional local credits, such as speech or health, so your school’s total may be higher.
Endorsements
Most students also earn an endorsement, which works like a high school major and raises the total to 26 credits, including a fourth credit in math and science. The five endorsement areas are STEM, Business and Industry, Public Services, Arts and Humanities, and Multidisciplinary Studies.
After sophomore year, a student can graduate on the 22-credit foundation without an endorsement if the student and a parent or guardian sign an opt-out form after talking with the school counselor. This can help a student who is behind, but it can limit eligibility for some Texas college admissions and state financial aid, so ask about the trade-offs first.
Required tests
Texas students must pass five STAAR end-of-course exams:
- Algebra I
- English I
- English II
- Biology
- U.S. History
Students get multiple chances to retake an EOC exam. A student who has met every other requirement but hasn’t passed one or two exams may be reviewed by an Individual Graduation Committee (IGC), which can decide whether the student may still graduate. Ask your counselor if this applies to you.
If you’re behind
- Ask for a credit review. Request a written summary of the credits you’ve earned, what’s missing, your endorsement, and which EOC exams you’ve passed.
- Ask about credit recovery. Many Texas districts offer online, evening, or summer recovery courses.
- Ask about EOC retakes and the IGC. If a test is the barrier, find out the next retake date and whether you qualify for a committee review.
- Ask about the foundation-only option. If you’re short on endorsement credits, the 22-credit plan may get you to graduation sooner.
High school equivalency (GED) in Texas
Texas issues a Texas Certificate of High School Equivalency (TxCHSE) to people who pass an approved equivalency exam, such as the GED. You must not be enrolled in an accredited high school and must not already have a diploma.
- 18 or older: eligible to test.
- 17: eligible with signed parent or guardian consent, submitted to TEA along with proof that you’re no longer enrolled in school. Consent isn’t required if you’re married, in the military, or legally emancipated.
- 16: eligible only in limited cases, such as a court order or enrollment in certain approved programs.
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 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?
- Which endorsement am I on, and is it the right fit?
- Which STAAR EOC exams have I passed, and when is the next retake?
- Would I qualify for an Individual Graduation Committee review?
- What credit recovery options does our school offer?
- What is my expected graduation date?
Not sure where to start?
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Official sources
- Texas Education Agency
- TEA: Eligibility Requirements for High School Equivalency Testing
- TEA: Exception Forms for 16- and 17-Year-Olds
Educational guidance only. Requirements vary by district and can change. Confirm details with your school counselor or the Texas Education Agency.