Indiana Graduation Requirements: What High School Students Need to Know

Planning your high school graduation can feel like a race with no finish line in sight. I remember sweating over my course plan, wondering if I’d cross it. 

Good news? You’ve got a head start, and this guide is your playbook to sprint through Indiana graduation requirements and soar to your future. 

Whether you’re aiming for a high school diploma that opens college doors or a career-focused credential, we’ve got you covered.

Key Takeaways

• Indiana’s diploma system transitions from Core 40 to the new Indiana Diploma with readiness seals for the Class of 2029, offering flexibility for college, careers, or military service.
• The new Indiana Diploma requires 42 credits, including personal finance and computer science, while Core 40 needs 40–47 credits.
• Graduation Pathways, mandatory since 2023, ensure employability skills, with 220 Youth Leadership pioneering innovative preparation programs.
• Assessments like SAT replace ISTEP+, with higher benchmarks for new seals; FAFSA completion is required for 2025+ graduates.

Understanding Indiana’s High School Diploma Requirements

Indiana’s graduation requirements are evolving to empower students to shape their futures. For students graduating through 2028, the Core 40, Academic Honors, and Technical Honors diplomas remain in place. 

Starting with the Class of 2029, the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) introduces a new Indiana Diploma with optional readiness seals (Enrollment, Employment, Enlistment) to demonstrate excellence and align with postsecondary goals. High school programs, including Graduation Pathways, ensure Indiana students are ready for higher education, military service, or careers. 

Let’s compare the old and new systems to help you choose the path that screams “you.”

Old Diploma System (Core 40, Through Class of 2028)

The Core 40, implemented in 2007, is the foundation for Indiana’s current diplomas, requiring 40 credits across core subjects and electives. Students can pursue the base Core 40, Academic Honors, or Technical Honors, each tailored to different postsecondary goals. These diplomas emphasize academic rigor, employability skills via Graduation Pathways, and flexibility through electives.

• Core 40 Diploma: The standard diploma, needing 40 credits, prepares students for college or careers with a balanced curriculum.
• Academic Honors Diploma: Requires 47 credits, a 3.0 GPA, and advanced courses for college-bound students.
• Technical Honors Diploma: Also 47 credits and a 3.0 GPA, focusing on career-technical education for workforce entry.

New Diploma System (Indiana Diploma, Class of 2029+)

Approved in December 2024, the new Indiana Diploma replaces Core 40, requiring 42 credits and offering optional “Honors Plus” seals (Enrollment, Employment, Enlistment) to signal readiness for postsecondary paths. 

Schools may adopt these changes as early as 2025-26, with full implementation by 2028-29. The new system emphasizes flexibility, work-based learning, and alignment with Indiana’s workforce and higher education needs, as outlined by the IDOE. Students can earn multiple seals, and the Enrollment Honors Plus seal guarantees automatic admission to Indiana public universities, earning praise from educators and employers for its real-world focus.

Core 40 Diploma (Old System, Through 2028)
The Core 40 is the base diploma under current requirements, needing 40 credits. Students complete core subjects and personalized electives to meet diploma requirements, preparing for college or careers with flexibility.
Core 40 Credits:

• English: 8 credits (writing, literature, speech).
• Math: 6 credits (Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II).
• Science: 6 credits (Biology, Chemistry, or Physics).
• Social Studies: 6 credits (U.S. History, Government, Economics).
• Physical Education: 2 credits.
• Health: 1 credit.
• Directed Electives: 5 credits (languages, arts, tech).
• Electives: 6 credits.

You can further review approved courses at the IDOE website, ensuring that you meet the necessary requirements for graduation. Earning this diploma opens doors to most colleges and jobs.

Indiana Diploma (New System, Class of 2029+)
The new Indiana Diploma requires 42 credits, replacing directed electives with personalized electives and adding mandatory courses like personal finance and computer science. It’s designed for flexibility, aligning with Graduation Pathways.
Indiana Diploma Credits:

• English: 8 credits (writing, literature, communication).
• Math: 6 credits (Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II or equivalent).
• Science: 6 credits (Biology, Chemistry, or Physics).
• Social Studies: 6 credits (U.S. History, Government, Economics).
• Physical Education: 2 credits.
• Health: 1 credit.
• Personal Finance: 1 credit.
• Computer Science: 1 credit.
• Personalized Electives: 12 credits (e.g., arts, tech, world languages, career-tech).

This diploma prepares students for college, careers, or military service, with optional seals to stand out.

Academic Honors Diploma (Old System, Through 2028)
Got your eyes on a top college? The Academic Honors Diploma (47 credits) is your ticket, demanding a 3.0 GPA and advanced courses.
Extras:

• 8 math credits (e.g., Pre-Calculus).
• 6–8 world language credits.
• 2 fine arts credits.
• An AP or dual credit course.
• No grade below C.

This diploma stands out to scholarship committees and top-tier universities, showcasing your academic excellence and commitment to challenging coursework.

Enrollment Honors Plus Seal (New System, Class of 2029+)
Replacing the Academic Honors Diploma, this seal requires a 3.0 GPA, advanced coursework, and 75 hours of work experience. It guarantees admission to Indiana public universities.
Extras:

• 8 math credits (e.g., Pre-Calculus or higher).
• 4 world language credits or advanced electives.
• 2 fine arts or career-tech credits.
• AP, dual credit, or IB courses.
• SAT (1250+) or ACT (26+).

This seal indicates that a student is ready for college.

Technical Honors Diploma (Old System, Through 2028)
The Technical Honors Diploma (47 credits) mixes academics with hands-on skills, also needing a 3.0 GPA. This is perfect for people considering trades or tech.

Extras:

• 6 credits in a career-tech program.
• An industry credential or internship.
• 8 math credits, 6 science credits.

For example, Tanya Chiwara, an Indiana Tech graduate, leveraged her hands-on education and internship experience to secure a full-time position as an energy engineering and sustainability technician with the City of Fort Wayne immediately after graduation. 

Her success highlights how the Technical Honors Diploma can jumpstart a rewarding career by combining rigorous academics with practical skills.

Employment Honors Plus Seal (New System, Class of 2029+)
Replacing the Technical Honors Diploma, this seal focuses on career readiness with 150 hours of work-based learning (650 hours for Plus tier).
Extras:

• 6 credits in a Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathway.
• Industry-recognized credential or 150 hours of work-based learning.
• 8 math credits, 6 science credits.

For instance, Maria Gonzalez completed a 220 Youth Leadership internship and earned a CTE credential, securing a healthcare job post-graduation. Matthew Moheban, the Co-Founder and CEO of 220 Youth Leadership, plays a significant role in guiding these career workshops and ensuring the programs truly guide students to success.

Enlistment Honors Plus Seal (New System, Class of 2029+)
Unique to the new system, this seal prepares students for military service, qualifying graduates for the Indiana National Guard with 150 hours of service-based learning.
Extras:

• 6 credits in JROTC or related courses.
• ASVAB score meeting military branch requirements.
• 150 hours of service-based learning.

Credit Breakdown

Credit Requirements for Graduation

Now that you’ve picked a diploma, let’s talk credits. These are the building blocks of your high school journey, and getting them right keeps you on track for your high school diploma.

Core Subjects

Core subjects are non-negotiable. They include:

• English: 8 credits for reading, writing, and speaking skills.
• Math: 6 credits to sharpen problem-solving (8 for Honors/Seals).
• Science: 6 credits to explore the world.
• Social Studies: 6 credits to understand history and civics.

For the new Indiana Diploma, add 1 credit each in personal finance and computer science. For Academic Honors or Enrollment Seals, include more math and world language credits.

Elective Credits

Electives let you explore passions like art or coding. These 6 to 12 credits help you meet the 40 to 47 credits required for graduation, building a well-rounded education. The new Indiana Diploma’s 12 personalized electives offer more freedom, guided by 220’s Career Planning Guide. 

Dual Credit and AP Courses

Dual credit and AP courses let you earn college credits in high school, ideal for Academic Honors or Enrollment Honors Plus seal seekers. Indiana law mandates at least two dual credit courses per high school. 

To find the best options for you, check Indiana’s Dual Credit List to see which courses align with your goals.

Readiness Seals and Pathways

Why just graduate when you can graduate ready? Indiana’s Graduation Pathways (required since 2023) and optional readiness seals ensure you’re prepped for what’s next, aligning with Indiana graduation requirements. 

Pathways combine three steps:

1. Diploma: Earn Core 40 (through 2028) or Indiana Diploma (2029+).
2. Employability Skills: Demonstrate skills via projects, service, or work experiences.
3. Postsecondary Readiness: Choose one:
   • Earn an Honors Diploma or Honors Plus seal.
   • Score SAT: 480+ Reading/Writing, 530+ Math (1250+ for Enrollment seal).
   • Earn 6+ dual credits or an industry credential.
   • Complete a career-tech program.
   • Pass ASVAB or WorkKeys.

Use the Graduation Pathways Checklist to track progress. Now, what's your next step?

Enrollment Seal

The Enrollment Seal prepares you for college with rigorous courses. The Honors Plus tier (75 hours of work experience, SAT 1250+) guarantees admission to Indiana public universities.

Employment Seal

The Employment Seal sets you up for the workforce. Through career training or internships, you’ll gain the real-world skills employers are looking for. Pair this with resume-building resources and workshops to boost your confidence and make your application shine in a competitive job market.

Enlistment Seal

Planning to serve your country? The Enlistment Seal gets you ready for military life with focused physical and mental preparation. Programs like the Army’s Future Soldier Preparatory Course help recruits meet academic and fitness standards, so when you ace the ASVAB, you’ll be ready to excel in any branch.

To encourage discipline in this path, 220 Youth Leadership partners with the National Guard to prepare you for military service. 

Demonstrating Employability Skills

Employability skills prove you can handle real-world challenges. This is why 220 Youth Leadership pioneers programs like their Leadership Track, with 90% of participants completing Graduation Pathways’ employability skills component, preparing students for college, careers, or military service. Here’s how to show them off.

Work-Based Learning

Internships and apprenticeships give you valuable hands-on experience, whether you’re shadowing a nurse or coding for a startup. These opportunities often lead to industry credentials for Technical Honors and help your resume stand out.

Service Learning Projects

Service projects let you give back to your community while developing skills like teamwork and problem-solving. Leading a park cleanup, for example, not only benefits others but also helps you grow. You’ll need to log a few hours, but the skills you gain will last a lifetime.

Career Exploration Programs

Not sure what’s next? Career exploration programs, like Indiana Career Explorer, let you test-drive industries. Pair these with 220’s career workshops to clarify your goals and align your high school diploma requirements with your dream career. A student I know discovered a passion for robotics through one—now she’s eyeing engineering school.

Additional Graduation Requirements

Credits and Pathways are just part of the deal. These extras ensure that high school Indiana students are well-rounded and ready for adulthood, meeting Indiana graduation requirements fully.

Personal Finance Course

Since 2023, Indiana requires a 1-credit personal finance course to help you master budgeting, saving, and avoiding debt-a practical crash course in “adulting.” For even more financial know-how, consider using resources like money management workbooks.

Physical Education

Earn 2 Physical Education credits by staying active with activities you enjoy, whether it’s basketball, yoga, or something else. Regular physical activity supports both your body and mind, making it easier to succeed in and out of the classroom.

Assessments

ISTEP+ is out for recent graduates. Starting with the class of 2023, you’ll need to take the SAT or another approved Graduation Pathways assessment, such as the ASVAB or dual credit courses. Free prep tools, like those at Khan Academy, can help you get ready for these tests.

FAFSA Completion

Beginning with the class of 2025, completing the FAFSA (or opt out) is required to unlock scholarships like the Workforce Ready Grant. INvestEd Indiana has your back with tips.

Special Situations

Students with IEPs can customize Pathways, with an alternate diploma for those with significant cognitive disabilities. English learners use world language credits as electives. Homeschoolers should align with IDOE guidelines. 220 Youth Leadership offers tailored workshops for diverse learners, ensuring inclusivity IDOE Alternate Diploma.

Preparing for Postsecondary Opportunities

Your high school diploma isn’t the finish line, it’s just the beginning. Indiana’s Graduation Pathways are designed to help you launch into college, a career, or military service, giving you the flexibility to shape your high school journey around your future goals.

Higher Education Preparation

If college is your next step, focus on earning the Enrollment Seal, taking college entrance exams like the SAT or ACT, and searching for scholarships on platforms such as Unicaf. Completing the FAFSA is key, as students in states with higher FAFSA completion rates (like Indiana’s 45% and the national average of 53.4%) are more likely to enroll in college, according to the National College Attainment Network. 

Career Training

Interested in jumping straight into the workforce? Career and technical education programs in fields like healthcare or technology can get you job-ready fast. Combine these with leadership development opportunities to sharpen your interview skills and stand out to employers. Many students find that hands-on training and real-world projects help them build confidence and land apprenticeships or jobs right after graduation.

Military Enlistment

Thinking about serving in the military? The Enlistment Seal, along with ASVAB preparation, sets you up for success. Connecting with recruiters early can help you explore roles that match your strengths and interests. Indiana’s pathways ensure you’re academically and personally prepared for the demands of military life.

No matter which path you choose, Indiana’s Graduation Pathways let you tailor your experience so you’re ready for whatever comes next. Where will your journey take you?

5 Ways to Crush Your Graduation Plan

1. Team Up: Map Pathways with your counselor.
2. Mix It Up: Balance core classes, electives, and 220’s leadership track. 
3. Explore Passions: Use Indiana Career Connect to find your spark.
4. Stay Organized: Track credits with tools like My Study Life to meet graduation requirements.
5. Tap Resources: Access a comprehensive toolkit: INvestEd shares helpful FAFSA tips, with IDOE providing updates on graduation requirements.

Summary

Indiana’s graduation requirements are more than just boxes to check, they’re your gateway for what comes next. With options like Core 40, Academic Honors, Technical Honors, and General diplomas, plus the flexible Graduation Pathways system, you can tailor your high school experience to fit your goals, whether that’s college, a career, or the military. 

Each pathway builds both academic and real-world skills, from employability to leadership, so you graduate prepared for your next step, not just eligible for it. Free tools like 220 Youth Leadership, aligned with Indiana's new diploma requirements, can help you sharpen those skills and stand out. Take charge of your future and use every resource to sprint past the finish line.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Core 40 diploma?

The Core 40 diploma is Indiana’s standard high school diploma for students graduating through the Class of 2028. It requires 40 credits in core subjects like English, math, science, and social studies, along with electives. This diploma is the minimum requirement for admission to Indiana’s public four-year colleges and universities.

What is the Indiana Diploma? 

Beginning with the Class of 2029, Indiana will implement a new “Indiana Diploma,” requiring 42 credits. This diploma adds requirements in personal finance and computer science, reflecting updated state priorities.

What are the requirements for the Academic Honors Diploma? 

The Academic Honors Diploma (available through the Class of 2028) builds on Core 40 by requiring 47 credits, a minimum 3.0 GPA, advanced coursework (such as AP, IB, or dual credit classes), and higher-level math, world language, and fine arts credits. Students must also meet additional benchmarks, such as SAT/ACT scores or completion of advanced courses.

What is the Enrollment Honors Plus seal?

Starting with the Class of 2029, the Enrollment Honors Plus seal recognizes students who complete advanced coursework, maintain at least a 3.0 GPA, and achieve qualifying SAT or ACT scores.

How can students earn elective credits? 

Students can earn elective credits by taking courses in areas such as art, technology, or world languages.

What is the purpose of the Enrollment Seal? 

The Enrollment Seal is designed to prepare students for college by ensuring they complete a rigorous academic program. It demonstrates readiness for postsecondary education.

What assessments are required?

Starting with the Class of 2023, students must take the SAT or approved alternatives to meet graduation requirements. Higher scores may be required for diploma seals or honors distinctions.

Why complete the FAFSA? 

Beginning with the Class of 2025, completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is required for Indiana students to access state scholarships and financial aid.

How do I build employability skills? 

Students can develop employability skills by participating in programs like 220 Youth Leadership, which offers opportunities for leadership projects and internships, helping to prepare for future careers.