Oklahoma Graduation Requirements Update (HB 3278 & SB 2672)
The Oklahoma Legislature has recently passed new laws that will update high school graduation requirements across the state. These changes are designed to simplify diploma options and ensure students are prepared for life after high school, whether that means college, career training, military service, or entering the workforce.
One Diploma Pathway
Under House Bill 3278 (HB 3278), Oklahoma will move to a single diploma option. This means students will no longer choose between the “Core” diploma and the “College Prep” diploma. All students will work toward the same standard high school diploma.
Updated Math Requirements
The new law also strengthens math expectations for graduation. Students will now be required to complete:
4 math credits, or
Four years of math
For students who take Algebra I (or higher) in 8th grade, that course may count as one of the four required years of math.
Changes to Credit Requirements
HB 3278 eliminates some previous graduation credit requirements, including:
Technology
Fine Arts
Foreign Language
While these courses are no longer required, they are still strongly encouraged because they help provide a well-rounded education and can support college and career goals.
Emphasis on Career Pathways
A major focus of the new graduation law is helping students follow a pathway that matches their future plans. Schools will place a stronger emphasis on courses that prepare students to be:
College ready
Career and Technology ready
Military ready
Workforce ready
This allows students to take meaningful coursework aligned with their personal interests and post-graduation goals.
When Will These Changes Begin?
The new graduation requirements must be fully implemented for the graduating class of 2030.
Option for Earlier Graduating Classes (SB 2672)
Senate Bill 2672 (SB 2672) provides flexibility for families before 2030. Students in graduating classes prior to 2030 may choose to graduate under the new requirements with parent permission.
Graduation Requirements
Required Courses | Current College Prep | College & Career Ready |
|---|---|---|
ELA | 4 credits | 4 credits |
Math | 3 credits | 4 credits |
Science | 3 credits | 3 credits |
Social Studies | 3 credits | 3 credits |
World Languages/ | 2 credits | __ |
Fine Arts | 1 credit | -- |
Career Pathways | -- | 6 credits |
Electives | 7 credits | 3 credits |
TOTAL | 23 credits | 23 credits |
Individual Career Academic Plan
K-7th Grade
Explore Your Path
What am I good at?
What do I like?
What kinds of careers sound fun to me?
8th Grade
Make Your Plan
What pathway matches my strengths & challenges me to grow?
What pathway sounds the most interesting?
9th-12th Grade
Create Your Future
How are the skills I'm learning helping me create the future I want?
What learning opportunities help me gain real-life experiences I can use outside of school?
It begins with ICAP
It is a required plan for all Oklahoma students
It helps students plan for life after high school
The plan is student-focused and updated each year
Includes career interest and skills surveys
Explores careers clusters and career pathways
Personalized academic course plan
Postsecondary goals (college, careerTech, military, workforce)
Opportunities for career internships and work-based learning
Helps students understand their interests and strengths
Connects school courses to future careers
Supports informed decision-making
Encourages goal setting and long-term planning
Prepare students for college, careers, and life
Guides course selection and enrollment
Supports advising and counseling conversations
Helps monitor student progress toward goals
Ensures students meet graduation and postsecondary requirements