High School Graduation Requirements
In order to earn a diploma from the High School of America, students must complete a set of graduation requirements that have been determined by the state board of education.
Graduation requirements vary depending on the state in which the school is located but typically include coursework in math, science, language arts, and social studies.
In addition, students must demonstrate proficiency in reading, writing, and math.
Some states also require students to complete a specific number of community service hours or pass an exit exam.
What Are the Graduation Requirements for High School of America (HSOA)?
At High School of America, your academic coach can assist in ensuring that you meet these graduation requirements. Also, our enrollment team keeps close track of your credits in order to monitor your progress toward your high school graduation. Students must be knowledgeable in the following four areas as they work toward graduation:
- Core classes,
- Elective classes, and
- Minimum grade requirements
Core classes
The HSOA graduation requirements include core classes that are essential for all students. Students must complete the following core courses:
- English – 4 credits
- Math – 3 credits
- Science – 2 credits
- Social Studies – 1 credit
At High School of America, we offer a comprehensive set of core courses in English, Math, Science, and Social Studies.
Standard and Adult Diploma Tracks
If you are enrolled in either the adult diploma program or standard program, you will have access to all of the courses needed to meet graduation requirements.
An adult diploma program is an option for older students who are unable to meet state requirements due to previous academic or social challenges. As a result, adults benefit from smaller classes and more individualized instruction.
As your student progresses through High School of America, you will be notified if they are not meeting the minimum grade requirement in any core class. The number of credits required may vary by state but typically includes four English credits, three Math credits, two Science credits, and one Social Studies credit.
If you need assistance with understanding these requirements, please contact us as soon as possible to work together as your student progresses – making certain they are on track for a diploma.
Honors and Advanced Placement Diploma Tracks
If your student is enrolled in either the Honors diploma program or Advanced Placement (AP) diploma program, they will have access to additional honors and AP courses that will allow them to earn college credit.
As a result of completing these accelerated courses, students are not required to take some of the core classes.
As your student progresses through High School of America, you will be notified if they are not meeting the minimum grade requirement in any core class.
Only students who complete all graduation requirements by earning at least 26 credits will be awarded a High School of America diploma.
Students enrolled in the Honors program must complete at least 30 credits, and students enrolled in the AP program must complete 32 credits.
Elective classes
While your core classes and credits will meet the graduation requirements in most states, students also need to complete elective coursework.
At High School of America, we offer hundreds of electives to help prepare you for college and career success.
Elective classes typically include physical education; consumer science; art; music; Spanish; engineering technology; business management and accounting; and family and consumer science (home economics).
Standard and Adult Diploma Tracks
If your student is enrolled in the standard program, they will need to complete six elective credits. If your student is enrolled in the adult diploma program, they will need to complete five elective credits.
Honors and Advanced Placement Diploma Tracks
If your student is enrolled in the honors diploma program, they will need to complete eight elective credits. If your student is enrolled in the AP diploma program, they will need to complete seven elective credits.
Minimum grade requirements
High School of America students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA to graduate.
High School of America’s diploma requirements mandate that all students must have at least a 2.0-grade point average in core subjects and electives combined.
Some states allow students to opt for an alternative graduation plan if they do not meet the 2.0 requirement but still complete 80% of the coursework required for the diploma.
High School Graduation Requirements FAQs
What If I’m Not Good at Math?
If you struggle with mathematics, don’t give up on earning your high school diploma! At High School of America, we offer free math tutoring through our online learning system. You can also enroll in one of our online math courses to brush up on your skills.
If you are still struggling, tell your academic coach so that they can provide support in the classroom and through tutoring sessions.
What if I’m Not Good at Language Arts?
At High School of America, we offer several English courses to help you strengthen this important skill set. You can also enroll in an online English course or take advantage of affordable tutoring services offered through the site.
How Many Credits Do I Need for Graduation?
Each state determines how many credits are required for graduation from high school, which means the requirements vary depending on where you live.
However, most states require that students complete a core curriculum that includes English, mathematics, science, and social studies.
Even if your state does not require students to complete a specific number of credits for graduation, it is important that you earn enough high school credits in order to be considered a full-time student. If you fall below this threshold, you will run the risk of running out of financial aid before earning your diploma!
Are There Any Other Requirements?
Each state sets its own requirements for earning a high school diploma. Further requirements may include passing an exit exam or completing a certain number of community service hours. Check with your academic coach or counselor at High School of America for more information on individual requirements in your area.
Should I Enroll in Classes Regarding Graduation Requirements?
Yes! Registering for classes related to high school graduation requirements at High School of America is essential to earning your diploma. When you begin your academic career, make sure to sign up for all of your required classes (listed above) and bring home daily homework assignments that can be completed outside the classroom.
How Do Students Meet the Graduation Requirements For HSOA?
Students meet graduation requirements by taking the relevant classes and passing the applicable state-mandated tests.
High School of America participates in all state testing programs, which include the PSAT, the SAT, and the ACT.
High School of America also offers a full range of Advanced Placement courses that can be substituted for subject matter tests provided that students pass an exam proctored by the College Board.
What Services Does High School of America Offer to Help Students Meet Their State-Mandated Testing Requirements?
HSOA offers testing preparation through its course library, and affordable course audits through its College Planning Program.
The school also provides fee waivers for eligible families who need assistance paying test fees.
Every family receives access to financial aid advisors who can explain all testing options available to their child.
High School of America provides several options for students who do not meet the full graduation requirements on their first try, including repeating courses or doing additional testing.
What Types of Courses and Activities Are Available to Students at High School of America’s online school to Help Them Meet the Graduation Requirements?
High School of America offers a wide range of courses and extracurricular activities. Students may take any number of AP, honors, and college-level courses to complete their graduation requirements.
In addition, students can become involved in student government or join the robotics club.
Many students choose to compete athletically or perform community service as part of their high school experience.
How Will My Child Be Assessed to Ensure They Have Met All the Necessary Graduation Requirements for HSOA?
High School of America requires students to take all state-mandated tests offered by the district in which the school is located.
For subject matter tests, HSOA offers a pay-for-credit option that allows students to take the test only after demonstrating proficiency using an alternative assessment method, such as supervised self-study or AP coursework.
For more information on High School of America’s graduation requirements, contact one of our admissions counselors today!