The new state graduation requirements: What you need to know

Beginning with the class of 2023, Pennsylvania changed its graduation requirements, through what is known as Act 158. The state still requires students to take the Keystone Exams in Literature, Algebra I, and Biology. But now, passing the exams is only one of the ways students can meet state graduation requirements.

Five pathways

The five “pathways” to graduation are:

Keystone Proficiency Pathway Students score in the Proficient or Advanced ranges on all three Keystone exams (Literature, Algebra I, and Biology), or demonstrate proficiency through successfully completing Keystone-aligned courses.

Keystone Composite Pathway Students earn a composite score set by the state Board of Education for the three Keystone Exams. Students must score in the Proficient or Advanced range on at least one Keystone exam and receive no Below Basic scores on any Keystone.

Career and Technical Education Pathway Students in Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs successfully complete Keystone-aligned courses and:

• Pass an industry-based competency certification test in their area of concentration, or

• Demonstrate readiness for careers in their CTE course of study.

Alternative Assessment Pathway Students successfully complete their Keystone-aligned courses and score at a certain level on approved exams or tests, including Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate exams. They can also meet the requirements by completing a pre-apprenticeship program, being accepted to a four-year college, or by demonstrating readiness for postsecondary education in other ways.

Evidence-based Pathway Students demonstrate readiness for postsecondary education or careers through a mix of test scores, industry-recognized credentials, service learning projects, internships, or college-in-high-school courses.

Students with disabilities

Students with disabilities who successfully complete a special education program with an Individualized Education Plan that meets the requirements of federal and state law will be issued a regular high school diploma by their schools, even if their programs don’t meet the new requirements.

Which pathway will my child follow?

For help determining which pathway fits your child, talk to the counselor at your child’s school (find the name and contact information at pghschools.org/counseling). You can also contact us at info@aplusschools.org or 412-256-8536.

Please note: The Pittsburgh district also has graduation requirements for students, which you can view at pghschools.org/graduation.