Military-connected students often move between schools and states, which can make academic planning challenging. Virginia provides clear graduation pathways to help ensure students stay on track, no matter where they enroll. Understanding diploma options and requirements can help families make informed choices that align with each student’s goals, abilities, and future plans.

Virginia Diploma Options and Requirements

1. Advanced Studies Diploma

A college-preparatory diploma designed for students planning to attend a four-year college or university.

Minimum Requirements (26 Standard Credits; 5 Verified Credits):

• English: 4 credits
• Mathematics: 4 credits (Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, and one additional higher-level math)
• Science: 4 credits (must include courses from at least three of the following: Earth Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
• History/Social Science: 4 credits (World History I, World History II, U.S. History, and U.S. Government)
• World Language: 3 credits (either 3 years of one language or 2 years each of two languages)
• Health & Physical Education: 2 credits (includes hands-on CPR, AED, and First Aid training requirement)
• Fine Arts or Career & Technical Education (CTE): 1 credit
• Economics & Personal Finance: 1 credit
• Electives: 3 credits (including at least one virtual course)

Verified Credits: Earned by passing both the course and its corresponding End-of-Course (EOC) SOL test or other approved substitute assessments

• EOC Reading: 1 Verified Credit
• EOC Writing: 1 Verified Credit
• Mathematics: 1 Verified Credit (Algebra I, Geometry, or Algebra I)
• History and Social Science: 1 Verified Credit (World History and Geography to 1500AD, World History and Geography 1500AD to Present, or Virginia and United States History)
• Laboratory Science: 1 Verified Credit (Earth Science I, Biology I, or Chemistry I)

2. Standard Diploma

A balanced academic pathway preparing students for college, workforce, or military enlistment.

Minimum Requirements (22 Standard Credits; 5 Verified Credits):

• English: 4 credits
• Mathematics: 3 credits (courses may include Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra, Functions, and Data Analysis or other advanced math option)
• Science: 3 credits (must include two different disciplines)
• History/Social Science: 3 credits (World History, U.S. History, U.S. Government)
• Health & Physical Education: 2 credits (includes hands-on CPR, AED, and First Aid training requirement)
• Fine Arts or Career & Technical Education (CTE): 2 credits
• Economics & Personal Finance: 1 credit
• Electives: 4 credits
  • Sequential Electives: Two electives must be sequential in the same area of study (e.g., Visual Arts I and Visual Arts II).
  • Virtual Course: At least one virtual (online) course must be completed.
  • Industry Credential Certification Assessment: Students must earn and pass at least one state-approved industry credential, license, or certification (e.g., W!SE Financial Literacy Exam).

Verified Credits: Earned by passing both the course and its corresponding End-of-Course (EOC) SOL test or other approved substitute assessments

• EOC Reading: 1 Verified Credit
• EOC Writing: 1 Verified Credit
• Mathematics: 1 Verified Credit (Algebra I, Geometry, or Algebra I)
• History and Social Science: 1 Verified Credit (World History and Geography to 1500AD, World History and Geography 1500AD to Present, or Virginia and United States History)
• Laboratory Science: 1 Verified Credit (Earth Science I, Biology I, or Chemistry I)

3. Applied Studies Diploma

A nontraditional diploma is awarded to students with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) who complete prescribed coursework but do not meet all requirements for a Standard Diploma.

• Emphasizes individualized academic goals, career readiness, and transition planning.
• Focuses on developing independent living, communication, and employability skills.
• Students must participate in the Virginia Alternative Assessment Program (VAAP) rather than SOL testing.
• Includes functional academics, life skills, and CTE coursework aligned with the student’s Transition IEP.
• Recognized by Virginia employers and postsecondary programs emphasizing work readiness, though not equivalent to a Standard Diploma for college admissions.

4. GED / ISAEP Program (Individual Student Alternative Education Plan)

An alternative pathway for students aged 16 or older who demonstrate readiness for the GED program rather than pursuing a traditional diploma.

• Requires academic screening (e.g., Wide Range Achievement Test, 5th Edition [WRAT5] or GED Ready®) to determine readiness.
• Must include career counseling, career and technical education training, and workplace readiness instruction.
• Student, parent/guardian, and school administrator must approve enrollment in the ISAEP plan.
• Students continue to receive special education services (if applicable) under their IEP until they exit special education eligibility or age out.
• Successful completion earns a GED® credential, which demonstrates high school equivalency and may qualify students for military enlistment (depending on branch and ASVAB score requirements) or community college enrollment.

Verified Credits Explained

A verified credit is earned when a student passes both the course and its corresponding state-approved assessment, typically a Standards of Learning (SOL) end-of-course test.

• These verified credits demonstrate mastery of Virginia’s academic content standards.
• Students must earn a minimum of five verified credits for graduation (specific to diploma type).
• Some verified credits may be substituted through CTE credentials, AP/IB exams, or dual enrollment courses if approved by the VDOE.