Academic Paths
Explore state-specific academic requirements and plan your high school course sequence to meet graduation standards and college preparation goals.
California: High School Diploma Requirements
California
Subject Areas
Science
2 units
Subject Areas
Mathematics
2 unitsScience
2 unitsEnglish
3 unitsSocial Studies
3 unitsPhysical Education
2 unitsVisual/Performing Arts, World Language, or Career Technical Education
1 unitEthnic Studies
0.5 unitsPersonal Finance
0.5 units
Source:
California Department of Education Diploma Requirements, more info here.
Course Requirements
Requirement:
2 units in Science. Including biological and physical sciences.
Course Sequence
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Year 4
1 Unit Biological Science
1 Unit Physical Science
Not required
Not required
Year 1
1 Unit Biological Science
Year 2
1 Unit Physical Science
Year 3
Not required
Year 4
Not required
Equivalent Exams
No equivalent exams found
Last updated 9/3/2025