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Graduating vs. College-Ready: Understanding the Difference Between High School Graduation and A–G Requirements

Two smiling graduates in caps and gowns, with text about graduation requirements.

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


High School Diploma

A-G Requirements (CSU/UC)

Class of 2020-2026Class of 2027 and Beyond
Grade RequirementD- Or BetterC- or Better
Social Science3 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
English4 Years (40 credits)

B

4 Years (40 credits)
Mathematics2 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
Science2 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 Languages1 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)
of the same World Language
3 Years, 30 credits recommended

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
Electives70 credits60 credits

G

1 Year (10 credits)
College Prep Elective
Extra A–F area or “G” course
Physical Education2 Years (20 credits) of PE or SportsNA
Health1 Semester (5 credits)NA
Total Credits Required215 Credits225 Credits