QUALIFICATIONS DETAILS Back to list

Comments/Additional Information

The High School Diploma is the most common name used in the U.S. for the secondary graduation qualification awarded after completion of grade 12. There is no national high school diploma in the United States. The format and even the exact name of the school leaving certificate can vary by state, school district and school. Academic and vocational curriciulum requirements for this diploma are set statewide by each state. Contents of the curriculum are contained in the record of studies and marks obtained, called a High School Transcript. 

High School diplomas usually have several possible tracks with differing requirements, e.g. Honours/Regents, Academic/College, Preparatory, Vocational, General/Regular.

Minimum graduation requirements: for public high schools are generally established by the state government, additional requirements can be established at the school district level, and even school level.

Graduation requirements for private high schools may, or may not, be established by the state goverment, it depends on the state.

Qualifications: requirements for a High School Diploma can vary by state and/or school district and/or school.

Grading system: there is no universal grading system, although many schools use a letter grade system (A-F). The system and grading scale can vary by state, school district or school.

Awarding period: most students graduate in May/June of the student's senior year of secondary school (high school), i.e., 12th grade.