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
|
| STEM | 9.0 credits
|
| Health, Wellness, and Safety | 2.0 credits
|
| 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 10 | 6 credits |
| Grade 11 | 11 credits |
| Grade 12 | 18 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 also sit for the SAT and NGSS assessments.
- MHS offers the Connecticut State Seal of Biliteracy, recognizing students who achieve proficiency in English and another language through coursework or assessment, with potential eligibility for college credit.
- To learn more about programs and opportunities, including how to earn college credit while at MHS, please visit the School Counseling & Guidance page.