Regents Courses

Regents courses are high school courses that are offered in New York State educational institutions. They are the standard courses needed to meet the New York State graduation requirements. Students must pass five Regents examinations in order to get a New York State diploma. The five tests are English, mathematics, science, social studies, and either a foreign language or an approved elective course. The passing score on the tests is 65 or higher. Regents highly emphasize the study of core subjects. Mathematics, science, and English are common topics tailored to the Regents e xaminations. The tests also help to standardize student academic performance among different schools. The Regents courses are designed to challenge the students and help them develop the academic skills necessary for postsecondary education or the workplace. The courses are designed to be equivalent to a first-year college course in the same subject. The New York State Department of Education revises the Regents exams process from time to time and holds teacher and student seminars to help ensure that students understand the content and material covered on the exams. The Regents coursework is intended to help students build self-confidence and cultivate the skills to successfully pursue further educational opportunities. The goal is for students who complete their Regents classes to have the confidence and foundational skills needed for future success.