High School Diploma

The ISL High School Diploma (HSD) is a credit-based, four-year secondary school qualification accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). It provides students in Years 10–13 with a rigorous and flexible pathway to graduation, supporting a wide range of academic interests, personal strengths, and future aspirations. The ISL US High School Diploma provides access to universities globally that accept US High School Diplomas.

A Credit-Based Structure

The ISL US HSD is awarded through the accumulation of academic credits over the final four years.

• 1 semester = 0.5 credits per course
• A minimum of 21 credits is required for graduation
  
  

Credits can be earned through IB Middle Years Programme and IB Diploma Programme courses, internships, and approved external programmes and courses.

Core Academic Requirements (15 credits)

To ensure a strong and balanced academic foundation, students must complete credits across key subject areas, including:

• 4 credits in Language A
• 4 credits in Mathematics
• 2 credits in Sciences
• 2 credits in Social Sciences
• 2 credits in a Second Language
• 1 credit for completion of the Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) 
  
  

At ISL, students in the first two years of the High School Diploma (Year 10 and Year 11) also complete the regular Middle Years Programme requirements, which includes completion of courses in arts and design, Personal Health Education, and the Personal Project. 

For students who transfer to ISL after the start of Year 10, credits will be given for equivalent courses at their previous school. 

With prior approval, accredited online courses which are more tailored to a student’s needs and interests may replace credits from the core academic requirements. 

Electives and Personalised Pathways (6 credits)

In addition to the core requirements, students complete 6 elective credits during Year 12 and Year 13, allowing them to explore areas of interest or develop specialised pathways. Elective credits may include:

• IB Diploma Courses in the Arts, such as music, theatre, or visual arts
• Further IB Diploma Courses at standard or higher level in languages, sciences, or humanities
• Accredited external courses or work experience, with prior approval
• Theory of Knowledge (TOK) or the Extended Essay (EE), both worth 0.5 credits
  
  

This elective structure enables students to shape a programme that reflects their strengths and long-term goals.

Students must achieve a grade of 3 or higher in all credits earned through MYP and DP courses. For other courses, the student must achieve a passing grade to earn credit. 

University Pathways and Recognition

The ISL US High School Diploma supports entry to a wide range of post-secondary options, including:

• Universities in the United States and Canada (standardised testing may be required)
• U.S.–style universities worldwide
• University foundation or pathway programmes in the United Kingdom and Europe
• Progression to Applied Science Universities, including business and hospitality degrees in Switzerland, via a preparatory year. 
  
  

Universities may require a GPA in the US High School Diploma and/ or additional testing, such as the SAT, ACT, or IB Course exams. They may stipulate subject-specific prerequisites for certain majors. ISL’s academic counselling team works closely with students and families to ensure appropriate pathways, drawing on extensive experience, alumni outcomes and a global network of contacts.