Graduation Requirements
San Mateo Union High School District students must satisfactorily complete a minimum of 170 credits in required courses and 50 additional credits of elective coursework, making a total of 220 credits. Each course passed earns 5 credits. Students also need to pass both parts (Math and English) of the California High School Exit Exam.
| Subject | Credits Required | Class of 2010+ |
| English | 40 | |
| Mathematics | 30 | Including Algebra 1-2 or above (courses below Alg 1-2 do not receive high school math credit) |
| Science | 20 | 10 credits of Biological Science, 10 Credits of Physical Science |
| One course must meet “d” requirement for UC and CSU | ||
| Social Studies | 35 | Modern World History 1-2, Contemporary World Studies, U.S. History 1-2, American Government, Economics |
| Health | 5 | |
| Physical Education | 20 | 10 credits completed in grade 9 and at least 10 credits in grades 10-11 |
| World Languages | 10 | 10 credits must be completed by the end of grade 10 |
| Fine and Performing Arts | 10 | |
| Electives | 50 | No more than 40 credits of Aiding/School/Community Service/Work Experience allowed |
| TOTAL | 220 | Required Minimum |
California High School Exit Exam (CAHSEE)
All students must pass both the English-Language Arts and Math portions of the CAHSEE to receive a high school diploma. (California State Education Code Section 60851)
Graduation Ceremony Participation
Students may ONLY participate in the graduation ceremony if they have successfully completed all credits and courses required for graduation, passed the California High School Exit Exam (CAHSEE), successfully completed Senior Exhibition, and have no outstanding bills or fines. Students will not be able to participate in the graduation ceremony if they have not met these requirements even if they will make up courses during the summer or fall of the year of graduation.
