High School Diploma Options

Starting with the 2018-2019 freshman class, Mississippi high school students will get to choose from four diploma options. They can complete the requirements for a traditional diploma or take additional classes to earn an academic, distinguished academic or career and technical education (CTE) endorsement. Furthermore, when they graduate in 2022, students who earn the academic or distinguished academic diploma will automatically qualify for admission into one of the state's public universities.

Mississippi Diploma Requirements and Endorsement Options

Traditional Diploma (YouTube) – Students must earn 24 credits (Carnegie units) in a selection of required classes including English, math, science, social studies, technology or computer science, college and career readiness, health, art, physical education, and electives.

Traditional Diploma + Career and Technical Education (CTE) Endorsement (YouTube) – Students must earn 26 credits, including four credits from the CTE program. Students must achieve at least a 2.5 GPA and score at the silver level on the ACT WorkKeys. Additionally, they must successfully complete a dual credit course, a work-based learning experience, or earn a national credential.

Traditional Diploma + Academic Endorsement (YouTube) – Students must earn 26 credits and score at least a 17 on the ACT English section and 19 on the ACT math section. They must also achieve at least a 2.5 GPA and successfully complete one Advanced Placement course and exam, one International Baccalaureate course and exam, or one dual credit course. They must make at least a C in the advanced course.

Traditional Diploma + Distinguished Academic Endorsement (YouTube) – Students must earn 28 credits and score at least 18 on the ACT English section and 22 on the ACT Math section. They must also achieve at least a 3.0 GPA and successfully complete one Advanced Placement course and exam, one International Baccalaureate course and exam, or one dual credit course. They must make at least a B in the advanced course.

Parents should work with their children's middle and high school counselors to guide their class choices as they advance toward graduation.

Learn more about Mississippi's Traditional Diploma with Endorsements.