A high school diploma is a qualification awarded upon the graduation of high school. It is typically earned after the completion of a four-year course of study, usually from grade 9 to grade 12. The requirements for earning a high school diploma vary by jurisdiction, but they generally include a combination of selected coursework meeting specified criteria for a particular stream and acceptable passing grades earned on the state exit examination. There are different types of high school diplomas, such as the general diploma, vocational diploma, honors diploma, and the General Educational Development (GED) credential, which is earned by passing a series of tests covering four subjects: language arts, math, social studies, and science
. In some states, there are also alternate diplomas and certificates of completion, which are intended for students with serious learning challenges
. Each state may have its own specific requirements for earning a high school diploma, and some states offer more than one type of diploma
