What high school courses do I absolutely need to graduate?

Heyy, I’m getting ready to plan my senior year, and I'm a bit stressed. Does anyone know what the specific course requirements are to graduate from high school? I want to ensure I've got everything covered so I don’t have any surprises when it's too late.

Hi there! It's great to see you being proactive about your senior year course planning. To graduate, most high schools require a certain number of credits in various subject areas. Typically, you'll need four years of English, three years of mathematics (including algebra and geometry), three years of history/social studies, three years of science (often including both life and physical sciences), at least one year of a physical education or health class, and a certain number of electives.

However, these requirements can vary depending on your state and even your school district, so it's essential to check with your school counselor. Some schools also have specific requirements for arts or foreign language classes. Plus, if you're aiming for college, you'll want to ensure you're meeting any additional coursework they may require for admission. For example, many colleges prefer four years of math and science, and at least two years of the same foreign language.

If you sit down with your school's course catalog and your transcript, you can map out what you've completed and what you still need to take. Remember, it's not just about fulfilling graduation requirements; you should also consider how your senior year courses will prepare you for your post-graduation plans. Feel free to reach out to your counselor if you need help planning— we're here for this very reason!