How Many Credits to Graduate High School in Texas: A Complete Guide
If you’re a student or parent in the Lone Star State, understanding how many credits to graduate high school in Texas is crucial for academic planning. Texas has specific credit requirements that vary by graduation program, with options ranging from the Foundation High School Program to endorsements that allow for specialization. This comprehensive guide breaks down all the credit requirements, elective options, and important considerations to help you navigate the path to graduation successfully.
Table of Contents
- Texas High School Graduation Programs
- Foundation High School Program Credits
- Endorsement Options and Additional Credits
- Elective Credit Requirements
- Special Circumstances and Exceptions
- Planning Your High School Credits
Texas High School Graduation Programs
Texas offers several graduation programs to meet different educational goals. The state implemented the Foundation High School Program in 2014, which remains the standard graduation plan. Students can enhance this foundation with endorsements that align with their career interests or college plans.
Available Graduation Plans
- Foundation High School Program: 22-credit minimum requirement
- Foundation + Endorsement: 26 credits with specialized coursework
- Distinguished Level of Achievement: Most rigorous option with 26 credits including advanced math
Foundation High School Program Credits
The basic how many credits to graduate high school in Texas requirement starts with the 22-credit Foundation program. Here’s the breakdown by subject area:
Required Foundation Credits
- English (4 credits): Must include English I, II, III, and an advanced English course
- Mathematics (3 credits): Algebra I, Geometry, and one additional math course
- Science (3 credits): Biology, one advanced science, and one additional science
- Social Studies (3 credits): U.S. History, World History, and U.S. Government (0.5 credit) plus Economics (0.5 credit)
- Physical Education (1 credit): Can include athletics, JROTC, or other approved courses
- Languages Other Than English (2 credits): Two years of the same foreign language
- Fine Arts (1 credit): Art, music, theater, or dance
- Electives (5 credits): Chosen from state-approved courses
Endorsement Options and Additional Credits
Students pursuing an endorsement need to complete 26 total credits rather than the basic 22. Texas offers five endorsement areas:
Endorsement Categories
- STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics
- Business & Industry: Includes fields like agriculture, IT, and communications
- Public Services: Education, law enforcement, and health science
- Arts & Humanities: Fine arts, social studies, and languages
- Multidisciplinary Studies: Combination of courses from multiple areas
Elective Credit Requirements
Electives make up a significant portion of the how many credits to graduate high school in Texas equation. The Foundation program requires 5 elective credits, while endorsement programs require 9. Popular elective categories include:
- Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses
- Additional advanced academic courses
- Specialized art or music programs
- Physical education extensions
- Computer science and technology
Special Circumstances and Exceptions
Some students may qualify for modified requirements under certain conditions:
Alternative Credit Options
- Individualized Education Programs (IEPs): Students with disabilities may have adjusted requirements
- Credit by Exam: Earning credits through examination rather than coursework
- Dual Credit: Earning both high school and college credits simultaneously
- Transfer Students: Credits from other states or countries may apply differently
Planning Your High School Credits
To ensure you meet all how many credits to graduate high school in Texas requirements, consider these strategies:
Credit Planning Strategies
- Meet with your counselor annually to review progress
- Balance required courses with electives that interest you
- Consider summer school or online courses if you fall behind
- Explore dual credit options at local colleges
- Keep track of your credits using your school’s portal
Conclusion: Staying on Track for Graduation
Understanding how many credits to graduate high school in Texas is the first step toward academic success. Whether you’re pursuing the basic Foundation program or adding an endorsement, careful planning ensures you’ll meet all requirements. Remember that requirements may change slightly by school district, so always consult with your academic advisor for the most current information specific to your situation.
Need help planning your high school credits? Contact your school counselor today to create a personalized graduation plan that aligns with your future goals.