Understanding Texas High School Graduation Credit Requirements
Graduating from high school in Texas is a significant achievement and an important step toward your future. If you’re attending high school in Texas, you might wonder exactly how many credits you need to graduate. The rules can seem complicated, especially with changing education standards. This guide will clear up the confusion and break down the requirements, helping you or your student stay on track for graduation success.
Texas High School Graduation Plans and Credit Details
Texas high school students follow the Foundation High School Program, which is the standard graduation plan established by the Texas Education Agency (TEA). Knowing the difference between types of diplomas can help you plan your courses from freshman year to senior year. There are endorsements and advanced options, but the fundamental requirements are consistent across the state.
- Foundation High School Program: Minimum diploma for Texas students
- Endorsements: Subject concentrations, like STEM, Business, or Arts
- Distinguished Level of Achievement: Advanced diploma for college-bound students
How Many Credits Are Needed to Graduate High School in Texas?
To receive a high school diploma under the Foundation High School Program, you must earn at least 22 credits. If you add an endorsement, which most students do, the requirement increases to 26 credits.
- Foundation Plan: 22 credits (minimum graduation plan)
- Foundation Plan + Endorsement: 26 credits (recommended for college/career readiness)
Credit Breakdown by Subject Area
Here’s how those required credits break down by subject under the current graduation rules:
- English Language Arts: 4 credits (English I, II, III, IV or an approved advanced English)
- Mathematics: 3 credits for Foundation Program; 4 credits with endorsement (Algebra I, Geometry, + others like Algebra II)
- Science: 3 credits for Foundation Program; 4 credits with endorsement (Biology, IPC or Chemistry/Physics, + advanced science)
- Social Studies: 3 credits (U.S. History, Government, Economics, World Geography or World History)
- Languages Other Than English: 2 credits (same language or computer programming substitutions allowed)
- Physical Education: 1 credit
- Fine Arts: 1 credit
- Electives: 5 credits (Foundation) or 7 credits (with endorsement)
Note: With endorsements or the Distinguished Level of Achievement, students typically take a fourth math (often Algebra II) and a fourth science course.
Why Do Credits Matter for Texas Graduation?
Credits reflect completed coursework and mastery of state educational standards. They ensure students are ready for life after high school—whether attending college, going into the workforce, or joining the military. Each full-year course usually counts as 1 credit, with semester-long courses counting as 0.5 credits.
What Are “Endorsements” and Are They Required?
Endorsements are specialized tracks or focuses students choose. These allow you to gain advanced knowledge in particular subject areas. Starting in 9th grade, most Texas students pick at least one endorsement.
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math)
- Business & Industry
- Public Services
- Arts & Humanities
- Multidisciplinary Studies
Most Texas public schools recommend pursuing an endorsement, as it prepares you for college or special career paths and may be required for some post-secondary programs.
Keeping Track: How to Check Your Credits and Progress
Many students and families want to stay on top of graduation requirements throughout high school. Here are some ways to track your high school credits in Texas:
- Review your high school transcript each semester
- Meet with a school counselor to review credit status
- Use school or district-provided tracking tools
Checking your progress helps prevent surprises in your senior year—making sure you’re eligible to walk across the stage on graduation day.
Frequently Asked Questions: Texas High School Graduation Credits
Can you graduate high school in Texas with 22 credits?
Yes, you can graduate with 22 credits under the Foundation High School Program. However, most students choose to earn 26 credits by adding an endorsement. This gives you more options after graduation and is often preferred by colleges and employers in Texas.
What happens if I fail a required course?
If you fail a required course, you must retake it to earn the necessary credit. Missing required credits will delay your graduation unless you make up the course through summer school, online programs, or credit recovery.
Do AP, Dual Credit, or IB classes count toward graduation credits?
Absolutely. Advanced Placement (AP), Dual Credit, or International Baccalaureate (IB) classes count toward your credits. They can also provide college credits and boost your GPA, making you a stronger applicant for universities in Texas and beyond.
Can credits be transferred if I move to or from another state?
Most Texas schools accept eligible credits from other states or countries, but always work with your school counselor. They will evaluate your transcript and let you know which credits satisfy Texas requirements.
What is the Distinguished Level of Achievement?
The Distinguished Level of Achievement is a Texas diploma earned by completing the Foundation Program, at least one endorsement, and Algebra II as one of your math courses. This distinction is important if you want to qualify for the Texas Top 10 Percent program, which can help with college admissions.
Are there other requirements to graduate high school in Texas besides credits?
Yes, in addition to earning the required credits, you must also pass five statewide end-of-course (EOC) exams: Algebra I, English I, English II, Biology, and U.S. History. These tests show your mastery in core subjects.
Tips for Texas High School Students: Earning and Tracking Credits
Staying on track for high school graduation in Texas does not need to be overwhelming. Use these practical strategies:
- Meet with your counselor every semester to review credits and plan your schedule
- Take summer classes or online courses if you’re behind
- Ask about endorsements and graduation options in 9th or 10th grade
- Track EOC exam requirements early to avoid last-minute surprises
The path to high school graduation in Texas is clear once you know the credit requirements and make a plan!
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