What Are the Requirements to Graduate High School in the U.S.?

To graduate, students must collect a specific number of credits, usually around 20 to 24, across subjects like English, math, science, history, physical education, and electives. Some states also require passing standardized exit exams or completing community service hours (because volunteering looks great on college apps). Requirements vary by state, but a typical path includes four years of English, three years of math (often Algebra I and II, plus Geometry), three years of science, and three years of social studies. In some places, there are also personal finance, foreign language, or career prep requirements. Add in GPA minimums, attendance standards, and maybe a senior project, and boom—you’ve got yourself a diploma (and probably a cap toss too).