CCMR WITH MS. THRASH
Texas Graduation Requirements: Foundation vs. Distinguished Level
Your complete guide to understanding graduation plans, endorsements, and strategic course selection for college success
Who This Guide Is For
This comprehensive resource is designed for:
High School Students (Grades 9-12)
Planning your course schedule and graduation pathway to maximize college readiness and opportunities
College-Bound Students
Understanding how graduation plans affect automatic admission, scholarships, and competitive college applications
Parents & Guardians
Supporting your student's academic planning with clarity on Texas requirements and post-secondary pathways
School Counselors & Educators
A comprehensive reference for advising students on strategic course selection and graduation planning
Foundation vs. Distinguished: What's the Difference?
Understanding your graduation options and their impact on your future
Foundation vs. Distinguished: What's the Difference?
Understanding your graduation options and their impact on your future
While all Texas students can graduate with the Foundation High School Program, the Distinguished Level of Achievement represents the gold standard for college-bound students. Here's a side-by-side comparison to help you understand the differences and plan accordingly.
Foundation High School Program
Minimum graduation requirements
REQUIREMENTS
WHO IS THIS FOR?
Students entering workforce, military, trade schools, or community college immediately after graduation
WHAT YOU CAN DO
Distinguished Level of Achievement
The college-ready standard
REQUIREMENTS
WHO IS THIS FOR?
Any student planning to attend a 4-year university, especially those targeting competitive programs or automatic admission
WHAT YOU CAN DO
How Your Graduation Plan Impacts Post-Secondary Options
Your graduation plan doesn't just determine whether you get a diploma—it fundamentally shapes your post-graduation opportunities, especially for college admission and financial aid.
Texas Automatic Admission (Top 10% Rule)
The most significant impact for Texas students
WITH DISTINGUISHED LEVEL
If you graduate in the top 6% of your class (UT Austin) or top 10% (other Texas publics) with Distinguished Level, you are guaranteed automatic admission to Texas public universities—no matter your test scores or extracurriculars.
WITHOUT DISTINGUISHED LEVEL
Even if you're in the top 6-10% of your class, you are NOT eligible for automatic admission. You must compete through holistic review with all other applicants.
Bottom Line: Distinguished Level is the gatekeeper to automatic admission. Learn more about Admission Options.
Competitive University Admission
Holistic review at selective colleges
For competitive out-of-state universities and highly selective programs, graduation plan sends a strong signal about academic preparation:
- → Distinguished Level shows you met the highest state standard and pursued academic depth (endorsement) and rigor (Algebra II+)
- → Foundation only raises questions about course rigor and college readiness, especially if more challenging courses were available
- → Most competitive universities expect to see Algebra II completion at minimum; many expect students to go beyond to Precalculus or Calculus
Merit Scholarship Eligibility
Many scholarships require Distinguished Level
Graduation plan directly impacts scholarship opportunities:
- • Texas Public University Scholarships: Many automatic scholarships explicitly require Distinguished Level of Achievement
- • Private & National Scholarships: Competitive merit scholarships favor students who pursued rigorous programs with depth (endorsements)
- • Honors Programs: University honors programs often require Distinguished Level or equivalent rigor for eligibility
Learn more about Financial Aid options.
Major-Specific Preparation
Some majors have course prerequisites
Your graduation plan affects whether you're prepared for certain college majors:
STEM Majors
Engineering, pre-med, computer science programs expect 4 years of math through Precalculus/Calculus. Foundation plan without Algebra II is insufficient.
Business Programs
Business schools expect Algebra II minimum; competitive programs prefer students who took Statistics, Calculus, or business courses.
Liberal Arts
Even humanities majors benefit from Distinguished Level—demonstrates academic breadth and college preparedness across all disciplines.
Specialized Programs
Nursing, education, architecture often review endorsement choices and relevant coursework as part of holistic admission review.
College Placement & Remedial Courses
Course rigor affects college readiness
Students who graduate with only Foundation requirements (especially without Algebra II) are more likely to require remedial courses in college. Remedial courses cost money and time but don't count toward your degree. Taking rigorous courses in high school—including Algebra II and beyond—prepares you to start college-level coursework immediately.
Making Your Decision: Which Path is Right for You?
Choose Distinguished Level of Achievement if you:
- ✓ Plan to attend any 4-year university (Texas public, out-of-state, or private)
- ✓ Want to qualify for automatic admission to Texas public universities
- ✓ Need merit scholarships to afford college
- ✓ Are considering competitive majors (STEM, business, health sciences)
- �� Want to demonstrate maximum academic rigor to colleges
Foundation Plan may be appropriate if you:
- • Plan to start at community college then transfer
- • Are entering the workforce or trade school immediately after graduation
- • Are enlisting in the military after graduation
- • Have extenuating circumstances that make advanced coursework challenging
Ms. Thrash's Advice: If you have ANY intention of attending a 4-year university—even if you're unsure now—pursue Distinguished Level. It keeps all doors open. It's much harder to add rigor later than to start with it. Review your 4-Year Plan with your counselor today.
Know Your District's Policies
While this guide covers Texas state requirements, it's always important to know your district's graduation policies. Some schools and districts put additional policies in place beyond state minimums. Always check with your counselor to understand any district-specific requirements, timelines, or restrictions that may apply to your situation.
TEA Graduation Toolkit 2025
What Are Endorsements?
Specialized pathways that add 4 credits to your foundation
What Are Endorsements?
Specialized pathways that add 4 credits to your foundation
Endorsements are focused course sequences that go beyond the foundation plan. Each endorsement requires 26 total credits and demonstrates specialized knowledge in a particular area. Most importantly, endorsements show colleges that you've pursued depth in your interests.
STRATEGIC TIP
Your endorsement choice signals your interests to colleges. If you're applying to engineering programs, a STEM endorsement makes sense. Applying to liberal arts colleges? Arts & Humanities or Multidisciplinary shows breadth. Learn more about Endorsements and how they connect to your College goals.
Foundation vs. Distinguished: What's the Difference?
Understanding your graduation options and their impact on your future
Foundation vs. Distinguished: What's the Difference?
Understanding your graduation options and their impact on your future
While all Texas students can graduate with the Foundation High School Program, the Distinguished Level of Achievement represents the gold standard for college-bound students. Here's a side-by-side comparison to help you understand the differences and plan accordingly.
Foundation High School Program
Minimum graduation requirements
REQUIREMENTS
WHO IS THIS FOR?
Students entering workforce, military, trade schools, or community college immediately after graduation
WHAT YOU CAN DO
Distinguished Level of Achievement
The college-ready standard
REQUIREMENTS
WHO IS THIS FOR?
Any student planning to attend a 4-year university, especially those targeting competitive programs or automatic admission
WHAT YOU CAN DO
How Your Graduation Plan Impacts Post-Secondary Options
Your graduation plan doesn't just determine whether you get a diploma—it fundamentally shapes your post-graduation opportunities, especially for college admission and financial aid.
Texas Automatic Admission (Top 10% Rule)
The most significant impact for Texas students
WITH DISTINGUISHED LEVEL
If you graduate in the top 6% of your class (UT Austin) or top 10% (other Texas publics) with Distinguished Level, you are guaranteed automatic admission to Texas public universities—no matter your test scores or extracurriculars.
WITHOUT DISTINGUISHED LEVEL
Even if you're in the top 6-10% of your class, you are NOT eligible for automatic admission. You must compete through holistic review with all other applicants.
Bottom Line: Distinguished Level is the gatekeeper to automatic admission. Learn more about Admission Options.
Competitive University Admission
Holistic review at selective colleges
For competitive out-of-state universities and highly selective programs, graduation plan sends a strong signal about academic preparation:
- → Distinguished Level shows you met the highest state standard and pursued academic depth (endorsement) and rigor (Algebra II+)
- → Foundation only raises questions about course rigor and college readiness, especially if more challenging courses were available
- → Most competitive universities expect to see Algebra II completion at minimum; many expect students to go beyond to Precalculus or Calculus
Merit Scholarship Eligibility
Many scholarships require Distinguished Level
Graduation plan directly impacts scholarship opportunities:
- ��� Texas Public University Scholarships: Many automatic scholarships explicitly require Distinguished Level of Achievement
- • Private & National Scholarships: Competitive merit scholarships favor students who pursued rigorous programs with depth (endorsements)
- • Honors Programs: University honors programs often require Distinguished Level or equivalent rigor for eligibility
Learn more about Financial Aid options.
Major-Specific Preparation
Some majors have course prerequisites
Your graduation plan affects whether you're prepared for certain college majors:
STEM Majors
Engineering, pre-med, computer science programs expect 4 years of math through Precalculus/Calculus. Foundation plan without Algebra II is insufficient.
Business Programs
Business schools expect Algebra II minimum; competitive programs prefer students who took Statistics, Calculus, or business courses.
Liberal Arts
Even humanities majors benefit from Distinguished Level—demonstrates academic breadth and college preparedness across all disciplines.
Specialized Programs
Nursing, education, architecture often review endorsement choices and relevant coursework as part of holistic admission review.
College Placement & Remedial Courses
Course rigor affects college readiness
Students who graduate with only Foundation requirements (especially without Algebra II) are more likely to require remedial courses in college. Remedial courses cost money and time but don't count toward your degree. Taking rigorous courses in high school—including Algebra II and beyond—prepares you to start college-level coursework immediately.
Making Your Decision: Which Path is Right for You?
Choose Distinguished Level of Achievement if you:
- ✓ Plan to attend any 4-year university (Texas public, out-of-state, or private)
- ✓ Want to qualify for automatic admission to Texas public universities
- ✓ Need merit scholarships to afford college
- ✓ Are considering competitive majors (STEM, business, health sciences)
- ✓ Want to demonstrate maximum academic rigor to colleges
Foundation Plan may be appropriate if you:
- • Plan to start at community college then transfer
- • Are entering the workforce or trade school immediately after graduation
- • Are enlisting in the military after graduation
- • Have extenuating circumstances that make advanced coursework challenging
Ms. Thrash's Advice: If you have ANY intention of attending a 4-year university—even if you're unsure now—pursue Distinguished Level. It keeps all doors open. It's much harder to add rigor later than to start with it. Review your 4-Year Plan with your counselor today.
How Colleges Review Your Courses
Understanding holistic review helps you plan strategically
How Colleges Review Your Courses
Understanding holistic review helps you plan strategically
Most selective colleges use holistic review—meaning they look at your entire application, not just grades and test scores. Your course selection is a critical piece of this puzzle.
Academic Rigor
- • Did you challenge yourself with available courses?
- • Did you take honors, AP, or dual credit when offered?
- • Did you continue in core subjects all 4 years?
- • Does your course progression show growth?
Depth of Interest
- • Do your courses show a clear interest area?
- • Did you pursue advanced courses in your interest?
- • Does coursework align with intended major?
- • Did you go beyond requirements in passion areas?
Context Matters
- • Colleges know what your school offers
- • They compare you to peers at YOUR school
- • Taking the most rigorous courses available matters
- • Use the Common Data Set to research
Strategic Course Selection by Grade
Freshmen
- • Build strong foundation
- • Explore electives
- • Consider Pre-AP courses
- • Plan your Freshmen year
Sophomore
- �� Add first AP courses
- • Narrow endorsement focus
- • Start career exploration
- • Explore Career Development
Junior
- • Peak academic rigor
- • Take SAT/ACT
- • Consider College Credit in High School
- • Research colleges
Senior
- • Maintain rigor!
- • Complete applications
- • Write compelling Essays
- • Apply for Financial Aid
THE "SENIOR SLIDE" WARNING
Colleges WILL see your senior year schedule and final grades. Dropping to easier courses senior year is a red flag. Many acceptances are conditional on maintaining academic performance. Keep challenging yourself!
Course Choices Show Demonstrated Interest
Your transcript tells a story—make it intentional
Course Choices Show Demonstrated Interest
Your transcript tells a story—make it intentional
Demonstrated Interest isn't just about visiting campus or opening emails—it's also about showing through your actions (including course selection) that you're serious about your academic and career goals.
Course Choices That Show Interest
- ✓ AP Biology + AP Chemistry for pre-med aspirations
- �� Computer Science courses for CS major applicants
- ✓ 4 years of same foreign language for global studies
- ✓ Multiple art courses for art school applications
- ✓ Business courses + internship for business programs
Mixed Signals to Avoid
- �� Saying you want engineering but avoiding physics
- �� Claiming interest in writing but no English electives
- ✗ Stopping math after Algebra II for STEM majors
- ✗ Dropping foreign language with humanities focus
- ✗ No courses related to stated interests
YOUR COURSES ARE DEMONSTRATED INTEREST
Long before you visit a campus or submit an application, your transcript is already communicating your interests and commitment. Strategic course selection demonstrates:
- • Intellectual curiosity — Choosing challenging courses shows you seek growth over easy grades
- • Commitment to goals �� Taking courses aligned with your intended major proves genuine interest
- • Academic readiness — Rigorous coursework signals you can handle college-level work
- • Long-term planning — A coherent 4-year progression shows intentionality and maturity
When colleges see a student who took AP Bio, AP Chem, Anatomy, and Medical Terminology applying to pre-med programs, that's Demonstrated Interest in action—before they even read your Essays.
Texas First Early High School Completion Program
Accelerate your path to graduation and college
Texas First Early High School Completion Program
Accelerate your path to graduation and college
The Texas First Early High School Completion Program is a unique opportunity for students to earn their diploma with a distinguished level of achievement in a shorter time frame than traditional high school programs. This program allows students to accelerate their education and enter the workforce or continue their education faster than their peers.
Program Benefits
- ✓ Graduate with Distinguished Level of Achievement
- ✓ Complete high school in an accelerated timeframe
- ✓ Enter college or workforce ahead of peers
- ✓ Demonstrate exceptional academic achievement
Scholarship Opportunity
By completing this program, students demonstrate high academic achievement and dedication to their education.
IS THIS PROGRAM RIGHT FOR YOU?
This accelerated path is ideal for highly motivated students who are ready to take on rigorous coursework and want to fast-track their educational journey. Talk to your counselor to see if you qualify and learn more about the Texas First Early High School Completion Program.
What Should I Do Right Now?
Actionable next steps for every grade level
Planning Checklist
- Create or update your 4-Year Plan
- Confirm your endorsement path with your counselor
- Verify you're on track for Distinguished Level
- Research College Credit in High School options
- Explore Application Types
Related Resources for Your Journey
Planning Tools
College Prep
Application Help
GRADE-SPECIFIC GUIDANCE
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about graduation requirements and course planning
Do I need an endorsement to graduate?
No, you can graduate with just the Foundation High School Program (22 credits). However, most college-bound students pursue at least one endorsement because it demonstrates depth of knowledge and is required for the Distinguished Level of Achievement, which opens more doors for college admission and scholarships.
What if I'm undecided about my major or career?
That's perfectly normal! Consider the Multidisciplinary endorsement, which gives you flexibility to explore different subjects. Focus on maintaining academic rigor across all core subjects, and use electives to explore potential interests. Your Career Development courses and counselor can help you discover your passions.
Can I change my endorsement after freshman year?
It depends on your district's policy. Many districts allow students to adjust their endorsement path as they discover new interests, but some have specific timelines or restrictions. Check with your counselor to understand your district's policy and ensure you're taking the right courses to complete your chosen endorsement on time. The earlier you make changes, the more flexibility you'll have. Keep your 4-Year Plan updated!
Is Algebra II really necessary?
For college-bound students: YES. Algebra II is required for the Distinguished Level of Achievement, which is required for automatic admission to Texas public universities. Most four-year colleges expect to see Algebra II or higher on your transcript, regardless of your intended major. It's a fundamental college-readiness benchmark.
How many AP or dual credit courses should I take?
Quality over quantity! It's better to take 3-4 advanced courses and perform well than to overload and struggle. Most competitive applicants take 5-8 AP/dual credit courses throughout high school, with the most rigor in junior and senior year. Use the Common Data Set to see what colleges expect. Learn more about College Credit in High School.
What if my school doesn't offer many advanced courses?
Colleges evaluate you in context—they review your school profile to understand what courses your school offers. Take the most rigorous courses available at YOUR school. Look into online AP courses, dual credit through local colleges, or virtual school options. Your counselor's recommendation will explain your school's limitations through the school profile, and colleges will consider this context in their review.
Will colleges care about my electives?
Absolutely! Strategic electives show depth of interest and exploration�����they're a powerful form of Demonstrated Interest. A student applying to journalism programs who took yearbook, creative writing, and media studies is showing clear passion. Electives that connect to your intended major, extracurriculars, or Career Development goals strengthen your application narrative.
Should I take harder classes or get better grades in easier ones?
For competitive colleges, a B in an AP or honors course is generally stronger than an A in a regular course. Colleges recalculate GPAs with weighted credit for advanced courses. That said, don't sacrifice your mental health or tank your GPA—find the right balance of rigor that challenges you while maintaining solid grades. The sweet spot is demonstrating you can handle challenging work successfully.
Ready to Plan Your Path?
Your course choices today shape your opportunities tomorrow. Start planning strategically with the right resources and guidance.