In order to earn a regular GCPS high school diploma, a student must fulfill the Georgia graduation requirements as indicated to the left. They also must pass the required tests as listed below:

Georgia High SchoolGraduation Tests (GHSGT) [English, Math, Science, & Social Studies]

Georgia High School Writing Test (GHSWT)

All students seeking a Georgia high school diploma must pass the Georgia High School Graduation Tests (GHSGT) in four content areas as well as the Georgia High School Writing Test (GHSWT). Students take the graduation tests for the first time their junior year. The writing test takes place in the fall, and the tests in English/Lang. Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies are administered in the spring. These assessments ensure that students who qualify for diploma have mastered essential course academic content and skills. Students must pass all five tests to graduate.

GCPS High School Gateway Assessment

All students must demonstrate knowledge of GCPS’ Academic Knowledge and Skills (AKS) curriculum. The Gateway Assessment measures students’ ability to write effectively about 9th and 10th grade Science and 10th grade Social Studies AKS. Students write two essays – one on a Science topic and one on a Social Studies topic. The assessment is first administered in the spring of the 10th grade year. Students must pass all sections of the Gateway to graduate.

Georgia End of Course Tests (EOCT) 

Students are required to participate in state-mandated End of Course Tests (EOCT) to earn credit for eight specific high school courses. Any student enrolled in and/or receiving credit for a course requiring EOCT would participate in the assessment at the completion of the course. Results of the test count as 15% of the student’s final average in the semester the test is administered. These tests are designed to hold students statewide to the same learning standards. The following tests currently are administered in grades 9 – 12.