In North Carolina, students can earn a High School Diploma Endorsement to showcase extra achievement and readiness for life after graduation. Think of it as a seal that tells colleges, employers, and the military, “This student went the extra mile.”
Here’s how seniors can earn one:
Meet all standard graduation requirements.
That’s the foundation. No endorsement without a diploma.
Complete specific course requirements based on the endorsement type.
Options may include:
College Endorsement
Career Endorsement
College/UNC Endorsement
NC Academic Scholars Endorsement
Arts Proficiency
Global Languages
Citizenship Proficiency
Each has its own GPA benchmarks, math credits, world language requirements, assessment, or pathway completions.
Maintain strong academic performance.
Some endorsements require a minimum unweighted GPA and specific advanced coursework such as Math IV or additional science credits.
Follow a clear pathway.
For career endorsements, students must complete a Career and Technical Education pathway. For college endorsements, they may need higher-level math and world language credits.
Why does this matter?
An endorsement is like adding a bold headline to a résumé before you’ve even left high school. It signals preparation, commitment, and future-focused planning.
If you’re unsure which endorsement fits your goals, schedule a meeting with your school counselor early in senior year to review credits and create a plan. The sooner you check, the smoother the finish line feels 
