The graduation requirements for students who entered the ninth grade for the first time in 2018-2019 and beyond are prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education in section 8VAC20-131-51 of the Standards of Accreditation (SOA). Students must meet the requirements that correspond to the year in which the student first entered ninth grade.
Students entering the ninth grade for the first time in the fall of 2018 and beyond will be required to satisfy graduation requirements for one of three diplomas: (1) a 22-credit Standard Diploma; (2) a 26-credit Advanced Studies Diploma; or (3) an Applied Studies Diploma. See the corresponding sections below for information regarding required standard and verified units of credit.
The Applied Studies Diploma is established for certain students who have a disability and who are not able to meet the credit requirements for a Standard Diploma. Student eligibility for this diploma is determined by the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) team, the student, and the parent/guardian(s). The Applied Studies Diploma is for students whose disabilities require a unique program of study.
