Graduation Guidance

This page provides information and rules about graduation requirements for students with disabilities who receive special education services.

The links below list specific rules for graduation depending on when the student entered ninth grade:

Performance on Required State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness

A student who is dismissed from special education services before graduation from high school must perform satisfactorily on any remaining general assessments (i.e., STAAR® or STAAR A) taken after the student is dismissed from special education. ARD committees should have confidence that a student who is dismissed from special education will be able to successfully complete all of the requirements for high school graduation, including satisfactory performance on any remaining end-of-course assessments.

Participation of Students with Disabilities in Graduation Ceremonies

Students with disabilities may participate in a graduation ceremony after completing four years of high school (TEC § 28.025 (f)).

 State Resources

The following are some state resources about graduation: 

Texas Education Code and Texas Administrative Codes

The following Texas Education Code (state law) and Texas Administrative Codes (State Board of Education and Commissioner's Rules) are about graduation:

Technical Assistance and Training  

The following areas provide technical assistance or training about graduation:

  • Student Assessment Division Email Contacts: You may search the Student Assessment Division's list of contacts by specific subject area. Carefully selecting the contact may impact the timeliness of a response. If your question is urgent, please contact the division directly by phone at (512) 463-9536. 
  • The Legal Framework for the Child-Centered Special Education Process: Parents and educators can find useful information by topic at the Texas Legal Framework. A framework addressing a Personal Graduation Plan may be helpful as you research this topic.  
SPEDTex Contact Info
Contact Information
SpedTex Special Education Information Center

Families: Special Education or IEP-Related Questions?

Phone: 1-855-SPEDTEX (1-855-773-3839)

View Resources for Families


Texas SPED Support

Educators: Special Education Resources

View Resources for Educators


Office of Special Populations and Student Supports

Department of Special Education:
Email: sped@tea.texas.gov

Department of Review and Support:
Email: ReviewandSupport@tea.texas.gov