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New York State is moving towards eliminating Regents exams as a graduation requirement for high school students. The state's Department of Education presented a plan on Monday (November 4) to the Board of Regents, proposing changes to make graduation requirements more equitable for students. If approved, the plan would phase out Regents exam requirements and introduce new instruction requirements.
The proposal is part of a broader effort to ensure that all students in New York State, regardless of their background or circumstances, receive high-quality instruction that prepares them for success in a rapidly evolving world. According to Syracuse.com, the plan would also implement a single diploma for students across the state, replacing the current system of local, regents, or regents advanced diplomas, each with different requirements.
New York is one of only eight states in the U.S. that requires students to pass exams to graduate from high school. Critics of the exams argue that they are an unfair and insufficient way to measure proficiency. The proposed plan would allow students to demonstrate their proficiency in a variety of ways, including project-based assessments or work experiences like internships.
The proposed changes would be introduced in phases, starting with students who entered ninth grade last year. Students who started high school in the 2023-24 school year would still be required to pass the exams, but may be able to receive an exemption for major life events or extenuating circumstances. By January 2028, students will not be required to take the exams. Instead, they can choose to take them as one of multiple ways to demonstrate their skills.
The proposal is still subject to approval from the Board of Regents. If approved, the changes would take effect in the 2027-28 school year.
