Understanding the graduation requirements in British Columbia (BC), Canada, is an important step for both local and international students studying in the Surrey School District (SD36), located in Metro Vancouver, Canada. Whether you’re completing a full Dogwood Diploma or planning a one-year or semester experience, this guide outlines what’s needed to earn a BC high school diploma.
Why This Matters
- Clear explanation of how many credits are required to graduate from high school in BC
- Simple checklist of required and elective courses
- Applies to both Canadian and international students
- Placement and credit transfer notes for students entering from other countries
- Helps local and international students studying in Metro Vancouver plan their BC graduation pathway with confidence
How Many Credits Are Needed to Graduate High School in BC?
To earn the British Columbia Certificate of Graduation (Dogwood Diploma), students must complete 80 credits at the Grade 10–12 levels. Most courses are worth 4 credits each.
Below is a breakdown of required and elective courses.
Required Courses | Credits |
English 10 | 4 |
English 11* | 4 |
English 12* | 4 |
A Math 10 | 4 |
A Math 11 or 12* | 4 |
Social Studies 10 | 4 |
A Social Studies 11 or 12* | 4 |
Science 10 | 4 |
A Science 11 or 12 | 4 |
Physical Education 10 | 4 |
Career Life Education* | 4 |
Career Life Connections* | 4 |
Fine Arts or Applied Skills 10–12 | 4 |
Additional Grade 12 course | 4 |
Additional Grade 12 course | 4 |
Additional Grade 12 course | 4 |
Elective Courses (4 classes) | 16 |
Total Minimum Credits | 80 |
Note: As of the 2023–2024 school year, at least 4 credits in Indigenous-focused coursework are required for graduation in BC.
Provincial Assessments
Students are also required to complete a series of literacy and numeracy assessments between Grades 10 and 12. Required for all students enrolled in BC public schools, including those in Surrey School District schools across Metro Vancouver.
International Students in Surrey Schools
International students studying in Surrey, Metro Vancouver, who begin in Grade 10 or earlier, can follow the same graduation path as local students. Those entering in Grade 11 or 12 will have their previous studies assessed for equivalency and may need to provide proof of English proficiency.
How we assess prior coursework:
- Official transcripts must be submitted
- Courses completed abroad may qualify for equivalency credits
- External Language courses (Levels 10, 11, 12) may earn percentage grades
- Surrey Schools will determine placement and required courses based on the student’s educational history
What is the Dogwood Diploma?
The Dogwood Diploma is the official high school diploma earned by students completing high school in British Columbia, including public schools in Surrey and Metro Vancouver. It is recognized by Canadian universities and post-secondary institutions around the world.
Planning Your Path: Example Timeline
A typical graduation path for students attending high school in Surrey, Metro Vancouver, follows this structure:
- Grade 10: Required foundation courses, Numeracy Assessment
- Grade 11: Core subjects, electives, Literacy 10 Assessment
- Grade 12: Advanced courses, Literacy 12 Assessment, Career Life Connections
This three-year structure helps students build strong academic skills while exploring areas of interest through electives.
Equivalency Credits
If a student has completed a course outside of a BC school, they may qualify for equivalency credit. This learning must be documented by transcripts. Percentage equivalencies may be provided for an External Language 10, 11, and 12.