Graduation Requirements

Graduating from Evanston Township High School is the result of years of hard work, learning, and growth—and it marks the beginning of each student’s unique journey beyond high school. To reach this important milestone and earn a diploma, students must meet both credit requirements and complete state-mandated assessments. These requirements are designed to ensure students are prepared for a range of post-high school options, including college, careers, and civic life.

While certain courses are required, there is flexibility in the courses students may take to meet these requirements, allowing for personal interests and goals to guide academic choices. To see how ETHS courses fulfill these requirements, students and families can refer to the ETHS Course Catalog or connect with their counselor for personalized planning and support.

Credit Requirements (Total: 48 Credits)

ETHS uses a semester credit system. Most full-year courses earn 2 credits (1 per semester). The following subject-area credits are required for graduation:

Subject Area	Credits Required	Notes
English	8 credits	Typically 4 years
History & Social Sciences	6 credits	Must include Humanities, Civics, and U.S. History
Mathematics	6 credits	Must include Algebra, Geometry, and Algebra 2 or equivalent
Science	4 credits	Typically includes Biology, Chemistry, and Physics or other science electives
Physical & Wellness Education	8 credits	Includes required Health course (1 credit)
Fine Arts / Career & Technical Education (CTE)	3 credits	Either 1 credit in Fine Arts and 2 credits in CTE; or 2 credits in Fine Arts and 1 credit in CTE. All Special Education computer courses meet the CTE requirement.
Electives	13 credits	Chosen based on students' interests and goals, includes World Language courses; consumer Education course is required
Reading Requirement*	Pass	*If required based on placement

Note: Credits from a previous school may transfer and be applied towards ETHS’s graduation requirements. The Dual Credit program allows eligible students to earn college credit while attending high school. The college credit earned is transferable to many four year colleges or universities.

Additional Graduation Requirements

In addition to earning 48 credits in academic subjects, ETHS students must also complete a set of additional graduation requirements. These requirements reflect state laws designed to support students’ readiness for civic life, financial independence, and postsecondary planning. Some are assessments or milestones completed during specific grade levels, while others are part of the curriculum.

ACT Test	Students must complete the ACT Exam to meet Illinois graduation requirements.
Consumer Education	Illinois state law requires all students to complete a course that integrates a unit of study on Financial Education. These courses also count as an elective and are marked with a © symbol in the ETHS Course Catalog.
U.S. Constitution Test	As required by Illinois state law, all students must pass the U.S. Constitution test in order to graduate. This requirement is typically fulfilled as part of the U.S. Government course.
FAFSA completion (or waiver)	Required in Grade 12, per Illinois state law.

Credit Requirements

English (8 Credits Required)

English courses develop critical reading, writing, and communication skills that are essential for academic success and everyday life. All freshmen take Humanities English, which integrates literature, writing, and analysis. Senior English and Senior Studies courses also count toward this requirement, allowing students to explore advanced topics and refine their skills before graduation.

Mathematics (6 Credits Required)

Math classes build the problem-solving and analytical skills necessary for college, careers, and daily decision-making. Freshmen take a two-credit math course, followed by four additional math credits through courses like Algebra, Geometry, or more advanced math depending on their pathway.

Science (4 Credits Required)

Science courses focus on inquiry, experimentation, and understanding the natural world. Students are required to complete four lab-based science credits.

History & Social Sciences (6 Credits Required)

These courses help students understand the past, government, and society. Freshmen take Humanities, while sophomores usually take Civics, which prepares students for active participation in democracy. They learn about government structures, citizen responsibilities, and current events to be informed community members. U.S. History, typically taken in junior year, ensures students develop historical perspective and civic awareness. It is also where students take the required U.S. Constitution test.

Physical & Wellness Education (8 Credits Required)

Physical Education (also known as gym class) promotes lifelong health and wellness. Students must take seven credits of Physical Education (one per semester) and one credit of Wellness education, usually taken in sophomore year, covering topics like nutrition, mental health, and fitness.

Arts + Innovation: Fine Arts and Career & Technical Education (3 Credits Required)

ETHS believes in nurturing creativity and practical skills. Students complete three credits combining Fine Arts (such as visual arts, music, or speech) and Career & Technical Education (like engineering, graphic design, or business). This combination helps students explore interests and build skills valuable in college and the workforce.

Electives (13 Credits Required)

Electives offer students freedom to explore passions beyond core requirements. Students can choose courses from any department that don’t specifically fulfill other graduation requirements, allowing them to customize their learning experience. These courses allow students to explore their interests, develop new skills, and potentially prepare for future careers. While 13 elective credits are required for graduation, the specific course within the elective category is a matter of student choice.

Additional Requirements

ACT Test
In Illinois, all juniors are required to take the state-sponsored ACT exam. This standardized test helps measure college and career readiness and is a requirement for earning an Illinois high school diploma. Learn more at eths202.org/TheACT.

Consumer Education
Illinois law requires every student to complete a Consumer Education unit before graduating. Students must pass a course that fulfills the Consumer Education requirement. These courses teach essential life skills like managing personal finances, understanding economics, and making informed consumer decisions. ETHS offers a variety of courses across different departments that satisfy this requirement. Eligible courses are marked with a © symbol in the ETHS Course Selection Guide. Options include Personal Finance, Economics, Business Law, Contemporary Adult Life, CTE practicums, and designated Special Education vocational courses.

FAFSA Completion
As part of Illinois graduation requirements, all seniors must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid to receive a high school diploma. There’s also an option to opt-out by submitting a FAFSA Nonparticipation Form. Students who are 18 or legally emancipated may complete the opt-out process themselves.

Reading Support (if required)
Students who demonstrate the need for additional help in reading—based on assessment scores (MAP RIT score of 219 or below)—are required to take and pass designated reading courses or receive targeted reading support integrated into their English and History classes.

U.S. Constitution Test
All students must pass the U.S. Constitution test, usually taken during the U.S. Government course. This ensures students have a solid understanding of the foundational principles of American government and their civic responsibilities.

Tracking Your Graduation Progress

Staying on track for graduation is important to ensure students complete all requirements on time. At ETHS, there are several ways students and families can monitor progress:

Meet with Your Counselor
Counselors work closely with students to plan their course schedules and review graduation requirements. They can help identify any missing credits or areas where extra support is needed.
Check Home Access Center
Students can access their academic records, including completed credits and current course enrollments, through Home Access Center. Families also have access to this information to stay informed.
Ask Questions Early
If you’re unsure about any requirement or how to meet it, reach out to your counselor or College and Career Services as soon as possible. Early intervention makes it easier to address any challenges.

Regularly tracking progress helps students stay focused and avoid surprises in their senior year. ETHS is here to support every step of the journey toward graduation.

Additional Resources

Counselors' Office

Grades & Report Cards

Contact Information

Office of Curriculum & Instruction
H100

Latrisha Woods
Office Assistant
Phone: (847)424-7710
Email: woodsl@eths202.org

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