Graduation/Diploma Requirements

Diploma Types

There are two main types of diplomas that most of our students earn: the Regents diploma and the Advanced Regents diploma. Each year roughly 62% of students earn some form of Advanced Regents, while 35% earn some form of Regents diploma. Requirements for each diploma fall into two categories: credits and testing. Students earn credits by passing courses. Students must pass Regents exams to satisfy the testing requirements. Regents exams are standardized state exams. They are not necessarily offered in every course every year. Check the course description page to see which courses end with a Regents exam. The charts below show the credits and exams required for each diploma type. Admittedly, this can get confusing. Never hesitate to contact the counselor if you have any questions about diploma type/status.

Diploma Designations

There are several variations and designations to these diplomas as well.

With Honors

Students can earn the “Honors” designation by averaging a 90 or above on all the Regents exams required for that diploma.

Mastery

Students can earn the “Mastery” designation in Math, Science, or Math & Science by scoring an 85 or above on three or more exams in each academic area.

Technical Endorsement

Students who complete a Career and Technical Education (CTE) program through BOCES and pass a course specific exam earn the Technical Endorsement.

Seal of Biliteracy

Students enrolled in AP Latin, AP Spanish or French 5H can earn the Seal of Biliteracy by filing an application during their senior year and completing certain course requirements as well as a project in both their English and Language class.

CDOS Credentials

The Career Development and Occupational Skills Credential (CDOS) is both an exiting credential for students unable to meet diploma requirements as well an additional diploma designation for students certifying career readiness. Students need to complete 216 hours of career and technical education instruction, with 54 hours being work based learning, along with an employability profile and career plan.