Understanding the New York State Regents Exam Requirements

Senior year is an exciting time for any high schooler. But in New York, there's one big accomplishment to be achieved, first: passing the New York State Regents Exams. In this article, we'll look at the exam requirements for different types of diplomas, and how New Dawn Charter High School prepares its students to pass these critical assessments required for graduation.

What Are the High School Diploma Options in New York State?

New York State students have access to the local diploma, the Regents diploma, and the Regents diploma with advanced designation. To earn a New York State high school diploma, students must meet both the credit requirements and the assessment requirements. Below, we'll look more closely at the details surrounding required examinations and how to prepare for them.

Examination Requirements to Earn a Regents Diploma

A Regents diploma is a high school diploma issued in New York State, including New York City. To earn a Regents diploma, students must pass a series of standardized exams called Regents exams in specific subject areas.

Students must achieve a score of 65 or higher on these five exams:

• English Language Arts (ELA) or NYSED-Approved Regents Examination Alternative.
• Any math exam (Algebra I, Geometry, or Algebra II/Trigonometry)  or NYSED-Approved Regents Examination Alternative.
• Any social studies exam (Global History and Geography or U.S. History and Government) or NYSED-Approved Regents Examination Alternative.
• Any science exam (Living Environment, Chemistry, Earth Science, or Physics) or NYSED-Approved Regents Examination Alternative.
• One pathway (see Multiple Pathways for more information).

For information regarding credit requirements, check out this info provided on NYSED's website.

Examination Requirements to earn an Advanced Regents Diploma

In addition to successful completion of the appropriate units of credit, to earn a Regents diploma with advanced designation students must pass* two additional math assessments and one additional science assessment to include:

• One English language arts Regents Examination or NYSED-Approved Regents Examination Alternative (see link above).
• Three mathematics Regents Examinations or NYSED-Approved Regents Examination Alternatives.
• One life science Regents Examination or NYSED-Approved Regents Examination Alternative.
• One physical science Regents Examination or NYSED-Approved Regents Examination Alternative.
• One social studies Regents Examination or NYSED-Approved Regents Examination Alternative.
• One pathway (see Multiple Pathways link above for more information).

* Eligible students may meet the assessment requirements for advanced designation using special appeals. Students granted an exemption from any examination are not required to pass such specific examinations to meet the assessment requirements for any diploma type (local, Regents, or Regents with advanced designation).

The Advanced Regents Diploma also has a few additional credit requirements, which are outlined here on NYSED's website.

What Scores Do I Need to Pass the Regents Exam?

Typically, you must pass the Regents exams with scores of 65 or higher. But, in certain cases, you can appeal lower scores and still graduate. You may appeal up to two Regents exams if you get a 60, 61, 62, 63 or 64, and meet the specific appeal requirements set by NYSED.

Local Diploma

All students can earn a Regents or advanced Regents diploma. Some students also have the option to earn a third type of diploma called the local diploma. This option allows certain students to graduate with lower exam scores. Some students with severe disabilities can earn the Skills and Achievement credential instead of a diploma. This credential recognizes students’ achievements in academics, career development, and other foundational skills. It is not proof of graduation. 

Preparing for the Regents Exams

Testing can be a stressful experience for anyone who is aiming for a passing score. While focusing on learning comprehension is your best bet, you can practice these additional tips to help prepare you for the exam.

Understand the exam format

Familiarize yourself with the format of the exam, including the types of questions (e.g., multiple-choice, short answer, essays) and the subjects covered. NYSED publishes specific exam guides and outlines for each subject, so check those out. Use review books and resources that are specifically designed for Regents exams, which often include practice questions and detailed explanations.

Create a study plan

Craft a study schedule that allows appropriate time for each subject and stick to it. Break your study sessions into manageable chunks to avoid burnout. Try to prioritize areas where you feel least confident and focus on those first, reviewing key concepts and topics that are frequently tested. Make use of study guides, class notes, and textbooks to reinforce these areas. Once you feel confident with the material, regularly practice with past exams, timing yourself during practice to simulate actual test conditions.

Join study groups

Collaborate with classmates or join study groups to discuss difficult topics and test each other's knowledge and provide moral support. Explaining concepts to others can help reinforce your own understanding.

Don’t hesitate to seek help from teachers, tutors, or academic support centers if you’re struggling with specific topics. They can provide valuable insights and guidance, or even alternative study methods or educational resources outside their regular teaching methods. Ask them about test-taking strategies, too.

Stay healthy and manage stress

Get plenty of rest, eat well, and exercise regularly, because a healthy body supports a sharp mind. Find hobbies outside of screens, too! You may even want to try some relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation to manage test anxiety and stay focused if you tend to get overwhelmed in high-pressure situations.

Take care of administrative details

Know the date, time, and location of your exam. Make sure you have all necessary materials such as identification, pencils, and approved calculators ready and prepared in advance. You will not have access to your mobile device while testing, and proctors are trained to enforce that rule with vigilant monitoring.

Learning Outcomes at NDCHS

At NDCHS, we aim to provide under-served students with the curriculum, educational materials, and support they need in to complete the necessary coursework for graduation. It follows that we also work rigorously to prepare them for standardized tests required for earning a Regents diploma.

Mentorship and accountability

Programming at NDCHS is specifically designed to help over-aged and under-credited students meet graduation requirements. With smaller class sizes and more tailored instruction, teachers are better able to meet the needs of students whose academic performance, behavior issues and poor attendance have previously held them back.

In addition to adherence to NYSED standards in school curriculum, we go above and beyond by implementing a mentorship program. Students are paired with a staff member who schedules regular meetings to discuss their progress. These one-on-one meetings are meant to be a source of encouragement and accountability for students, as they have someone consistently invested in their academic success.

It goes beyond just student achievement, though. Students who engage in our mentorship program have the opportunity to build strong, healthy relationships with staff members, who can help strengthen their interpersonal skills and prepare them for the ins and outs of higher education or the workforce.

Pass the Regents Exams at NDCHS

With educational standards that are designed to help under-credited and over-aged students pass the New York State Regents Exams, NDCHS is committed to making sure its students graduate. If you think your student would be a great fit for New Dawn, check out our eligibility and admissions page and contact an administrator about scheduling a tour.