In New York City public schools, students can earn three types of diplomas: a local diploma, a Regents diploma, or an Advanced Regents diploma. Each is a valid high school diploma and can be used to demonstrate graduation or enroll in programs after high school, like college and the military. To earn a diploma, students must earn specific course credits and pass specific Regents exams.

All students must earn 44 total credits across specific subject areas in order to graduate. Subject-area requirements vary by the type of diploma and may also vary if a student earns an endorsement. Ask your school counselor for more information about credit requirements.

All students must pass at least five Regents exams or State-approved alternatives to Regents exams in order to graduate. Subject-area requirements for exams vary by diploma type and endorsement as described to the right. All students can earn a Regents or Advanced Regents diploma. Some students, including students with disabilities, can graduate with a local diploma by earning different exam scores. Contact your school counselor to learn more about Regents exams, State-approved alternatives, and these other exam flexibilities for students who meet specific eligibility requirements:

• Appeals to graduate with low scores on Regents exams
• Safety Net flexibilities for students with disabilities
• Exam waivers for transfer students
• Performance-Based Assessment Tasks (PBATs) for students at State-approved schools