Advanced courses have recommended eligibility criteria due to their high level of rigor. Each student's request for an advanced course is reviewed to determine appropriate class placement. Reviewing requests is based on a combination of eligibility criteria, including teacher recommendations and grades. NSCD does not require advanced courses. While appropriate for some students, they are not necessary for college admission. We encourage students to pursue advanced-level work in courses of authentic interest, balancing academic rigor with physical and emotional wellness. This approach serves the whole student and positions our students appropriately for a "right fit" college search.

Graduation requirements include academic courses and completing all programs that comprise North Shore's whole student curriculum. Upper school students must meet departmental requirements and be enrolled in at least five academic classes each semester. In addition to the required diploma standards, students supplement their program with various electives.

To graduate, students must complete 22 credits, including the following requirements and four elective credits.

Students do not have the option of meeting any portion of the graduation requirements by taking a class in the summer. Occasionally, math students can take summer courses for acceleration within a discipline. Approval from the department head is required. NSCD's math department also permits students to take Geometry and AP Calculus AB over the summer. All other math class credits must be earned with North Shore Country Day School courses. This option is available only for students with exceptional math aptitude, strong conceptual thinking skills, and solid study habits. Please see the Math Department Summer Class policy for more specific information. New students entering tenth, eleventh, or twelfth grade will have their graduation requirements established at the time of admission at the discretion of the Divisional Leadership Team.

ACADEMIC WAIVERS

The required student course load is five academic courses (history, math, science, English, foreign language). In very rare circumstances, a student may need a reduced academic schedule. The determination to grant a fifth-course waiver will be made by appropriate School personnel.