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SMUHSD Graduation Requirements

SMUHSD Graduation Requirements

All students are required to complete a minimum of 220 credits in order to earn a diploma from the San Mateo Union High School District - including credits in each of the following areas:

  • 40 Credits - English
  • 35 Credits - Social Science
  • 20 Credits - Science (10 life science, 10 physical science)
  • 30 Credits - Mathematics
  • 10 Credits - World Language
  • 10 Credits - CTE (Career Technical Education)
  • 5 Credits   - Health
  • 20 Credits - Physical Education
  • 10 Credits - Visual/Performing Arts
  • 40 Credits - Electives


College Entrance Requirements

At AHS, it is our goal that every student is prepared to go to college upon graduation. Students are encouraged to make plans as early as their freshman year in order to be eligible for many colleges that are selective and competitive.


The UC/CSU Subject Requirements 

(i.e. UC Berkeley, UC Santa Cruz, SJSU, SFSU)

Students interested in attending a UC school should be in the top 12.5% of high school seniors. Those students interested in attending a CSU school should be in the top 33% of high school seniors. 

Both UC and CSU requirements are the following: 

  • 2 years of history/social studies (US History and World History).
  • 4 years of English
  • 3 years of college preparatory mathematics, 4 years recommended for UC (Algebra, Geometry, Intermediate Algebra required.)
  • 2 years of laboratory science, 3 years recommended for UC (such as Biology and Chemistry or Physics).
  • 2 years of the same world language, 3 years recommended for UC.
  • 1 year of the same visual or performing arts (in sequence Art, Drama, Music, etc.) 
  • 1 year of academic elective (from the subject areas above)


Examination Requirements

  • Dependent upon graduating class and pandemic situation.  For current information, students should check in with their School Counselor.
  • California State University – Take either the SAT or the ACT
  • University of California – SAT or ACT


Private Colleges or Universities 

(i.e. Stanford, USC, University of Puget Sound, Boston U)

These schools vary widely in their admission policies, with some being extremely competitive and others being less so. Students should go online, see their counselor, or visit the College & Career Center for specific information.  Many times the financial packages at private colleges or universities are more generous.


The Community College System 

(i.e. Skyline, College of San Mateo)

These colleges are a good choice if students wish to attend for one or two years to prepare for a 4-year college by transfer, attend for one or two years to prepare for a vocation, are not sure of the academic field of study, and/or want to stay near home for financial reasons.  The requirements include:

  • A high school diploma, a certificate of proficiency, or the age of 18
  • No admission tests are required, but placement tests are required upon enrollment.