24-Credit HSE Program

Earn Your High School Equivalency (HSE) Diploma by Taking College Classes

The 24-Credit Hour High School Equivalency (HSE) Program is sponsored by the New York State Education Department. It allows students who have not graduated from high school to work toward their HSE diploma while also completing college courses.

Who Can Apply?

You may qualify if you:

Have not graduated high school
Do not already have an HSE diploma
Have completed (or plan to complete) 24 college credits in a degree or certificate program
Have lived in New York State for at least 30 days
Are at least 16 years old (and the school year you turned 16 has ended)

Important Things to Know

All 24 credits must meet specific course requirements set by the New York State Education Department
Credits must be from a U.S. college (international credits cannot be used)
Once approved, you will receive your HSE diploma

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Meet with an OCC Navigator

You’ll work with a Navigator at OCC who will help you choose the correct courses needed for the 24-credit HSE diploma.

Step 2: Complete Your 24 Credits

Take and successfully complete the required courses with guidance from your Navigator.

Step 3: Complete the Application

Once your credits are finished, your Navigator will help you:

Fill out the application (Section A)
Make sure everything is complete and accurate

Step 4: Submit Your Documents

Your Navigator will send your application to the Office of Registration and Records at Onondaga Community College.

The college will then:

Complete the required sections
Attach your official transcript
Mail everything to the New York State Education Department for review

Step 5: Wait for Processing

Once submitted, it usually takes 6–8 weeks for the state to review your application. If approved, you will receive your New York State HSE diploma in the mail.

Ready to Get Started?

Meet with Michele Carey, OCC Navigator, to build your plan and get started on your 24-credit HSE pathway.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is the minimum grade that I need to receive for the course to count towards the 24-Credit Hour Program?

Students earning credit towards their 24-credit hour high school equivalency diploma are required to earn a D- or higher in each course.

Is Financial Aid available for students completing the 24- Credit Hour Program?

According to federal law, financial aid is not available for the 24-Credit Hour Program.

What types of courses do I need to complete to the 24- Credit Hour Program?

The course requirements to earn the New York State High School Equivalency (HSE) diploma can be found on the New York State Education Department website. All 24 credits must meet these specific requirements.

When can I officially enroll at OCC as a degree-seeking student?

Students must receive the high school equivalency diploma from the State Education Department before matriculating into a college degree program.

Can I use credits from a school outside the United States?

No. Credits or transcripts from schools outside the United States cannot be accepted or reviewed for the 24-credit HSE program. You must earn your credits at a college within the United States.

How long will it take to finish the 24 Credit Hour Program?

It depends on how many classes you enroll in and complete each semester. A student who enrolls in 12 credits each semester will finish in two semesters, whereas someone enrolling in less credits will take longer to complete the program. Summer and Winter classes are also available to help finish quicker.

How much does it cost?

Tuition and fees are based on how many credits you take. Visit the OCC tuition and fee page for current rates.

Will my credits count towards my college degree?

In most cases, yes. Depending on the program, the credits you earn in the 24-credit program can count toward a degree at Onondaga Community College or transfer to another college.