Types of High School Diplomas

The types of diplomas awarded to high school students in the Commonwealth of Virginia are as follows:

Diploma Types:

Advanced Studies

students must complete 24 units of academic work as outlined in the DOE regulations plus 9 verified credits if entered 9th grade before 2011-12

students must complete 26 units of academic work as outlined in the DOE regulations plus 9 verified credits if entered 9th grade from 2011-12 onward

students entering 9th grade from 2013-14 onward must also complete a virtual course

Standard

students must complete 22 units of academic work as outlined in the DOE regulations plus 6 verified credits

Students entering 9th grade from 2013-14 onward must also earn a board-approved career/tech credential and complete a virtual course

Beginning with students entering 9th grade in 2013-14 this will also include those previously receiving Modified Standard diplomas and may include modified requirements for students with disabilities on IEPs

Modified Standard – not available for students entering 9th grade from 2013 onward

students with a disability, as identified on their IEP, who are unlikely to complete the requirements for a standard diploma

students must complete 20 units of academic work as outlined in the DOE regulations and demonstrate numeracy and literacy (pass 8th grade math and English)

General Achievement Diploma GAD

students must be 18 years of age and not currently enrolled in high school

this option is for students who have completed 20 standard units of credit towards graduation and did not have the necessary verified credits from other above categories

units can be earned at community college, in high school, or other program

student must obtain a passing score on his/her GED

Applied Studies Diploma (formerly Special Diploma)

Students with disabilities who complete the requirements of their IEP but don’t meet the requirements for other diplomas.

Certificate of Program Completion

Students who complete a prescribed program of studies as defined by the local board but do not qualify for a diploma. These students may or may not have an IEP.

For more information concerning your child’s diploma type, please contact your High School Guidance Counselor.