As students go through high school, parents and families may be surprised to learn that meeting the minimum graduation requirements for an IUSD diploma does not automatically mean their child is eligible to apply and attend a University of California (UC) or California State University (CSU).
While both sets of requirements include courses in English, math, science, and other core areas, graduation requirements focus on earning enough credits to complete high school. A–G requirements ensure students are academically prepared to apply for admission to California’s public universities and many public and private universities across the country.
By understanding the difference between graduation and A–G requirements, families can ensure students leave high school not only with a diploma but also with the option to apply and attend the college of their choice and be prepared for careers and life.
As a reminder, it’s important for students to be well-rounded, in addition to meeting academic requirements. Many colleges look for those who take on a diverse set of activities and classes, such as Career Technical Education courses and participating in extracurricular activities, volunteering, and exploring their interests beyond the classroom.
For more information, visit iusd.org/GradAGRequirements or speak with your child’s school counselor.
Review the chart below to see a side-by-side comparison of the two requirement categories.
Subject |
| A-G Requirements (CSU/UC) | ||
| Class of 2020-2026 | Class of 2027 and Beyond | |||
| Grade Requirement | D- Or Better | C- or Better | ||
| Social Science | 3 Years (30 credits) 10 credits World History 10 credits U.S. History 5 credits Economics (one semester) 5 credits Government (one semester) | A | 2 Years (20 credits) 10 credits World History and 10 credits US Hist/Gov | |
| English | 4 Years (40 credits) | B | 4 Years (40 credits) | |
| Mathematics | 2 Years (20 credits) Must include 10 credits of Math 1 or Algebra 1 | 3 Years (30 credits) Must include 10 credits of Math 2 or Geometry | C | 3 Years (30 credits) Math 1, Math 2, and Math 3 or Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2 4 years, 40 credits recommended |
| Science | 2 Years (20 credits) 10 credits Life Science 10 credits Physical Science | 3 Years (30 credits) 10 credits Life Science 10 credits Physical Science 10 additional Science (varies by school; check your sites Course of Study) | D | 2 Years (20 credits) 10 credits Lab Life Science: Biology and 10 credits Lab Physical Science: Chemistry/Physics 3 Years, 30 credits recommended |
| World Languages | 1 Year (10 credits) From 1 of the following 3 areas: 1) World Languages 2) Visual & Performing Arts (VAPA) 3) Career Technical Education (CTE) | E | 2 Years (20 credits) AP Language scores or Dual Enrollment Language classes may also satisfy this requirement. | |
| Visual & Performing Arts (VAPA) | F | 1 Year (10 credits) Visual and Performing Arts | ||
| Career Technical Education (CTE) | NA | |||
| Electives | 70 credits | 60 credits | G | 1 Year (10 credits) College Prep Elective Extra A–F area or “G” course |
| Physical Education | 2 Years (20 credits) of PE or Sports | NA | ||
| Health | 1 Semester (5 credits) | NA | ||
| Total Credits Required | 215 Credits | 225 Credits | ||