FHS Graduation Requirements

To graduate with a high school diploma from Fremont High School, students must fulfill several requirements. These include:

There are additional requirements for students planning on entering a 4-year college. These requirements vary depending on whether you plan to attend a University of California, a California State University, or a private college or university.

Expected Learning Outcomes at Graduation:

All Fremont High School students who successfully complete their requirements should also be able to demonstrate that they have achieved a basic set of competencies as outlined by the Fremont Union High School Board of Trustees. These outcomes can be viewed here.

Coursework Requirements:

One year of work in one course earns 10 units of credit. A minimum of 220 semester units are required for graduation, and they must be taken in the following areas:

English
Social Studies
Mathematics
Physical Education
Science
Electives

40 units
30 units
20 units*
20 units
20 units
90 units

*Both 10 units of Algebra 1 and 10 units of Geometry are required for graduation.

...plus 20 units in two of the following three areas:

  1. Language other than English: Chinese, French, Spanish, Japanese
  2. Applied Arts: Industrial Technology, Business, R.O.P., Work Experience
  3. Fine Arts: Art, Music, Theatre Arts

20 credits in only one concentration will not fulfill this requirement.

Semester Requirements:

A semester class is worth 5 units; a year class (two semesters) is worth 10 units. Most students earn 30 units each semester. Failed classes (grade of "F") earn no units. Required classes that are failed must be repeated until they are passed.

Courses that are repeated earn units only once, unless otherwise noted in the course description. Example: A student gets a "D" in Algebra 1 and then repeats the course the next year earning a "B". The "D" grade will remain on the permanent record but will earn no units. The "B" grade will earn 5 units. Both grades will be used to calculate the total G.P.A.

The Cumulative Grade Point Average (G.P.A.) includes all grades in all courses for the full four years of high school. The state G.P.A. includes all grades in all courses, except P.E., from the sophomore, junior, and senior year.

A student must earn the minimum units (220) and meet subject requirements in order to receive a diploma. No student will receive a diploma or participate in the graduation ceremonies who does not meet these minimum requirements.

High School Exit Examination (HSEE)

Beginning with the graduating Class of 2004, all students in the State of California must pass the High School Exit Examination in order to receive a high school diploma. The first opportunity to take the exam will happen during the spring of the 10th grade year.

State law authorized this new graduation requirement in April of 1999. The purpose of the High School Exit Examination is to:

  • improve student achievement in high school
  • ensure graduates meet identified state content standards in reading/writing and mathematics

The State Superintendent of Public Instruction designates testing dates for the HSEE each year. Results from the examination will be returned to the student and the school.

The Fremont Union High School District is dedicated to making sure students receive the instruction needed to pass this examination. Students who do not pass all sections will have opportunities to retake any portion of the HSEE in order to receive their diploma. Students will be offered additional instructional assistance, as needed.

The policy of the Fremont Union High School District is to comply with all Federal and state laws and regulations governing educational programs including Special Education, Vocational Education, Gender Equity and Migrant Education, including allegations of unlawful discrimination. Anyone believing that the district has violated this policy may file a complaint with Dr. Mary Stone, Associate Superintendent of Educational Planning and Development, 589 W. Fremont Avenue, Sunnyvale, CA 94087; (408) 522-2207.

A Uniform Complaint Procedures (AR 1312.3) brochure can be obtained from the Educational Services Center, 589 W. Fremont Avenue, Sunnyvale, California 94087 or by calling the Educational Planning and Development Office; (408) 522-2207.

For complaints pertaining to selected state or Federal programs or harassment or discrimination related to instruction, contact Pete Tuana, the Associate Superintendent of Educational Planning and Development at 589 W. Fremont Avenue, Sunnyvale, California 94087; (408) 522-2207.

For complaints pertaining to harassment or discrimination related to employment or students, contact the Associate Superintendent of Administrative Services at 589 W. Fremont Avenue, Sunnyvale, California 94087; (408) 522-2205.

For complaints pertaining to harassment or discrimination related to facilities, contact Michael Raffetto, the Associate Superintendent of Business Services at 589 W. Fremont Avenue, Sunnyvale, California 94087; (408) 522-2210.