Overview
In Texas, high school graduation requirements are set by the state and apply to all public school students, including those in traditional independent school districts (ISDs) and most charter schools. The core framework is known as the “foundation curriculum,” which was established by the Texas Legislature in 2013.1
Under this system, students must complete a set of required courses, known as credits, and pass a series of end-of-course exams in order to graduate. The standard graduation pathway requires at least 22 credits across specific subject areas, along with successful completion of five end-of-course (EOC) assessments.2
Many students also pursue one or more specialized graduation tracks (known as an endorsements), which are areas of academic specialization that align with career or college interests. While the Foundation Program is the baseline, students may earn additional distinctions depending on their academic choices and performance.
Core Credit Requirements
| Subject Area | Credits Required | Typical Course Progression |
|---|---|---|
| English Language Arts | 4 | English I, English II, English III, Advanced Course |
| Mathematics | 3 | Algebra I, Geometry, Advanced Course |
| Science | 3 | Biology, Physics/Chemistry, Advanced Course |
| Social Studies | 3 | World Geography or World History, U.S. History, U.S. Government (0.5), Economics (0.5) |
| Languages Other Than English (LOTE) | 2 | Two years of the same language or two Computer Science credits |
| Physical Education | 1 | PE, Athletics, Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps, or approved substitution (e.g., Marching Band, Dance) |
| Fine Arts | 1 | Art, Music, Theatre, Dance, or other approved course |
| Electives | 5 | Includes endorsement courses, local electives |
| Total Minimum Credits | 22 |
These credits form the base requirement for graduation. Each full-year course typically counts as one credit. Some courses, such as Algebra I or Biology, also require passing a corresponding end-of-course exam. Students who pursue an endorsement (described below) must take an additional credit in both math and science, raising their total to 26 credits.
Specialized Graduation Tracks
Texas high school students can choose a specialized graduation track (called an endorsement) that reflects their academic or career interests. The state offers five official options:3
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)
- Business and Industry
- Public Services
- Arts and Humanities
- Multidisciplinary Studies
Most students are expected to declare an endorsement on entering the 9th grade and complete a coherent sequence of courses in that area. An endorsement requires one additional math credit, one additional science credit, and a specific sequence of electives tied to the endorsement area.
Although students may graduate without an endorsement, doing so requires parent approval. Pursuing an endorsement is the default track at most Texas high schools.
A student may change or add an endorsement at any time.
Required End-of-Course Exams
In addition to completing coursework, students must pass five STAAR end-of-course (EOC) exams:
- Algebra I
- English I
- English II
- Biology
- U.S. History
These exams are administered by the Texas Education Agency and are required for graduation. Students who do not pass an EOC exam on the first attempt have multiple opportunities to retake it. Schools are required to provide remediation and support services for students who are not successful initially.
There is no standalone “exit exam” in Texas, but all five EOC exams must be passed in order to receive a diploma.
Distinguished Level of Achievement
Students who complete the Foundation Program with an endorsement and take Algebra II among their math credits earn the Distinguished Level of Achievement. This distinction is significant because it qualifies students for automatic admission to Texas public universities under the Top 10 Percent Rule, provided they meet other academic criteria.
Optional Components and Local Flexibility
While the state sets minimum requirements, local districts may add graduation requirements such as community service hours, additional electives, or capstone projects. However, they may not require fewer credits than the state minimum.
Texas also allows flexibility in course substitutions in some areas. For example:
- Computer science may count toward the foreign language requirement.
- Advanced career and technical education courses may substitute for science or math credits in some endorsement pathways.
Parents are encouraged to consult their local district’s graduation handbook or counseling office for specific details.
Special Cases and Alternative Graduation Paths
Texas provides additional pathways for students who encounter challenges in meeting the standard requirements:
- Individual Graduation Committees (IGCs) may allow a student to graduate despite failing one or two EOC exams, under strict review.
- Special Education students may follow modified graduation plans based on their Individualized Education Program (IEP).
- Early graduation is permitted for students who complete all requirements ahead of schedule.
These exceptions are handled on a case-by-case basis, and parents should work closely with school counselors to understand their options.
Planning Tips for Parents
- Encourage your student to choose an endorsement aligned with their interests or career goals.
- Monitor progress on EOC exams.
- Review transcripts annually to ensure your student is on track.
- Ask your school counselor for graduation resources.
