Skip To Main Content
Credit Requirements for Graduation - Manchester High School

Credit Requirements for Graduation

Manchester High School students are encouraged to exceed the minimum graduation requirements. Planning your program of studies carefully will help you meet your personal, educational, and career goals.

Students must earn a minimum of 25 credits and demonstrate proficiency in literacy and mathematics to graduate.

Credit Distribution Requirements

Category Credits Required
Humanities 9.0 credits
  • 4.0 credits in English Language Arts (ELA)
  • 3.0 credits in Social Studies (including at least 1.0 U.S. History, 0.5 Civics, and 0.5 Human Rights)
  • 1.0 credit in the Arts
STEM 9.0 credits
  • 3.0 credits in Mathematics (including Algebra 1 and either Algebra 2 or Statistics)
  • 3.0 credits in Science (including at least 1.0 life science and 1.0 physical science)
  • 0.5 credits in Personal Finance
Health, Wellness, and Safety 2.0 credits
  • 1.0 credit in Physical Education and Wellness (including at least 0.75 in Physical Education)
  • 1.0 credit in Health and Safety (including at least 0.75 in Health)
World Language 1.0 credit
Mastery-Based Diploma Assessment (Currently Senior Story and Profile) 1.0 credit
Electives 3.0 credits
Total Minimum Credits Required 25 credits (Class of 2023 and thereafter)


Grade Level Determination

Students are not automatically promoted to the next grade. Grade classification is determined by the number of credits earned by the end of summer school:

Grade Level Credits Needed
Grade 106 credits
Grade 1111 credits
Grade 1218 credits

Important Notes:

  • Relevant alternate experiences (service learning, work-based learning, dual enrollment, online courses, etc.) may be applied toward distribution requirements with approval from the principal or designee.
  • A student may earn 0.5 credit for 60 documented experiential learning hours (50 hours of documented community service + 10 hours of related instruction).
  • Credit can also be earned through select middle school courses (with a B or better), proficiency exams, college courses, and other flexible pathways.
  • In addition to the 25 credits, students must demonstrate proficiency in literacy and mathematics. This is typically shown through state-required assessments (such as the SAT and NGSS) or by passing specific required courses.