How Many Credits to Graduate High School in Texas: A Complete Guide

Graduating from high school is a significant milestone, and in Texas, understanding the specific credit requirements is crucial for students to ensure they meet all necessary conditions for earning their diploma. Whether you’re a student, parent, or educator, it’s important to know how many credits are needed to graduate high school in Texas and how they are distributed across different subjects.

Overview of High School Graduation Requirements in Texas

In Texas, high school graduation requirements are determined by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) and are structured around different graduation plans. The two main plans are the Foundation High School Program and the Distinguished Level of Achievement. Both plans have specific credit requirements, and students must fulfill these requirements to graduate.

Foundation High School Program

The Foundation High School Program is the default graduation plan for students in Texas. It sets the minimum requirements for a high school diploma. This plan includes a set number of core academic credits, electives, and the opportunity for students to specialize in different areas through endorsements.

Distinguished Level of Achievement

The Distinguished Level of Achievement is an advanced graduation option for students who want to challenge themselves further. This plan requires students to complete all the requirements of the Foundation High School Program, but with added rigor, such as earning an endorsement and completing algebra II.

How Much Credit Require for Each Subject?

Texas high school students must meet specific credit requirements in various subjects to graduate. Here’s a breakdown of the required credits in each subject:

1. English Credits

• 4 credits in English Language Arts:
  • English I
  • English II
    English III
  • English IV (or an approved English elective)

2. Mathematics Credits

• 3 credits in Mathematics:
  • Algebra I
  • Geometry
  • Algebra II
  • (Additional math courses may be needed depending on the endorsement chosen.)

3. Science Credits

• 3 credits in Science:
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Physics (or another science elective based on the endorsement chosen)

4. Social Studies Credits

• 3 credits in Social Studies:
  • World History
  • U.S. History
  • U.S. Government (1/2 credit)
  • Economics (1/2 credit)

5. Physical Education Credits

• 1 credit in Physical Education.

6. Fine Arts Credits

• 1 credit in Fine Arts (such as music, theater, visual arts, or dance).

7. Foreign Language Credits

• 2 credits in the same foreign language (Spanish, French, etc.), though some students may waive this requirement through other options like electives.

What is the Foundation High School Program?

The Foundation High School Program is the core plan for most students in Texas. Under this program, students must meet a minimum number of credits in various subjects, including English, Math, Science, Social Studies, and electives. The Foundation program is designed to give students a well-rounded education that prepares them for both post-secondary education and the workforce.

Credit Requirements for Foundation Plan:

• 22 total credits, including core courses and electives.

What is the Distinguished Level of Achievement?

The Distinguished Level of Achievement is a more rigorous version of the Foundation plan. To earn this distinction, students must complete additional coursework and achieve a higher level of academic performance.

Key Requirements:

• Complete the Foundation High School Program.
• Earn an additional credit in math, specifically Algebra II.
• Complete one of the five available endorsements.
• The Distinguished Level of Achievement is often required for students who wish to apply to competitive colleges or universities in Texas.

Elective Courses and Endorsements

In addition to the required credits, students in Texas must also complete elective courses and may choose to pursue one of the five available endorsements. Endorsements are specializations in specific academic or career areas, and they allow students to focus their studies in a field of interest.

Available Endorsements:

• STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)
• Business & Industry
• Public Services
• Arts & Humanities
• Multidisciplinary Studies

Each endorsement requires students to take additional elective courses in their chosen field, which count toward their total credit requirements.

Additional Considerations for Graduation

Besides fulfilling the required credits, students in Texas must also consider the following:

• Dual Credit Courses

Dual credit courses allow students to earn both high school and college credits simultaneously. These courses can be used to meet graduation requirements and help students get a head start on their college education.

• Advanced Placement (AP) Courses

AP courses are college-level classes offered in high school. While they do not count directly toward credit requirements, successful completion of AP courses and exams can give students college credit and help them meet graduation requirements for advanced courses.

• End-of-Course (EOC) Exams

In addition to earning the required credits, students must also pass specific End-of-Course (EOC) exams in subjects like Algebra I, English I, English II, Biology, and U.S. History. These exams assess students’ understanding of core subject matter.

What Happens if You Don’t Meet Credit Requirements?

If a student does not meet the required number of credits for graduation, there are options for making up the missing credits. Students can:

• Enroll in credit recovery programs.
• Take additional summer school courses.
• Work with their school counselor to determine alternative ways to complete graduation requirements.

Conclusion

In Texas, high school graduation requirements are designed to ensure that students receive a comprehensive education that prepares them for the future. With 22 total credits required for the Foundation High School Program, plus the option to pursue a Distinguished Level of Achievement or specialized endorsements, there are multiple paths to graduation. Be sure to check with your school counselor or the Texas Education Agency (TEA) for the most up-to-date and specific requirements for your graduation plan.

If you’re a student or parent working towards graduation, understanding these requirements will help ensure that you stay on track and meet all necessary credit goals.