What are the different types of high school diplomas?

Updated by: Michael Eugene | June 2026

After successfully graduating from high school, a student is awarded a high school diploma. But did you know there’s more than one type of high school diploma?

For students with specific needs or career aspirations, a non-traditional high school diploma program might be the right choice. To figure out which high school diploma is right for you, understanding the various options is the first step.

General diploma

The general diploma is the most common type of high school diploma or degreehigh school diploma, which is given to students who have met standard graduation requirements. Diploma requirements may vary by state, but typically require completing courses in core subjects such as English, math, science, and history, as well as a variety of electives.

Honors diploma

An honors diploma is awarded to students whose performance exceeds standard graduation requirements. Students who earn this diploma have met standard high school graduation requirements, and typically have also maintained a high grade point average (GPA), completed advanced placement (AP) classes, earned above a certain threshold for their SAT or ACT exam, or other requirements. As with the general diploma, the honors diploma requirements can differ in each state.

Certificate of attendance

A certificate of attendance is typically given to students with severe learning disabilities who are unable to meet the standard requirements of a general diploma. The requirements for this certificate are outlined for each student based on their disability and personalized goals.

Occupational diploma

An occupational diploma is given to students who complete a career-focused program. Occupational diplomas typically require students to complete courses in core subjects such as English, math, science, and history, as well as career-focused classes. An occupational diploma is earned through a program that focuses on developing skills that will help students enter the workforce. Many skilled trade jobs accept an occupational diploma as proof that the graduate has the skills to obtain an entry level position in the field. However, colleges may not accept this diploma for entry.

Graduate equivalency degree (GED)

A general educational development (GED) is considered equivalent to a general high school diploma. This option is typically chosen by students who did not complete a traditional high school program, but need this educational achievement to pursue a chosen career or enroll in an educational program. Precise requirements vary by state, but earning a GED typically requires students to complete a GED course and pass a state-approved exam. This certificate shows that the student has the same knowledge as someone with a general high school diploma.

Although a GED is generally accepted as an equivalent to a traditional high school diploma, many employers and others prefer a high school diploma.

RELATED: If you are weighing your options, see whether you should get a high school diploma online or a GED.

Understanding your options is the first step. The next one is making an educated decision on how to move forward with your future.

Still deciding which path fits? U.S. Career Institute offers a 100% online, self-paced general high school diploma program, as well as five career-focused pathways. U.S. Career Institute is a DEAC accredited school, and its high school program is dually accredited by the Middle States Association Commission on Secondary Schools (MSA-CESS).