Science Graduation Requirements

Science Graduation Requirements

In New York State, every student is expected to be scientifically literate upon graduation from high school. In practical terms, this expectation translates to a minimum of three years of successful science learning. The science requirements for a Regents diploma can best be summarized by the “3-2-1 rule.” To earn a Regents diploma, a student must have

3 – credits in science (science courses in which the student has earned a passing grade)

2 – different areas of science (one course based on the Living Environment Core Curriculum and at least one course based on one of the Physical Setting Core Curricula: Earth Science, Chemistry or Physics)

1 – grade of 65 or better on a Science Regents Exam

To earn an Advanced Regents diploma, a student must pass two Science Regents Exams.