Every state has “compulsory education” laws that require school attendance. In California, that means children between the ages of 6 and 18 must attend full-time school. But there are exceptions, and some students may drop out early. Below is a summary of the state’s requirements for staying in school, dropping out, and getting high school equivalency diplomas.
Requirements for Dropping Out Legally
California students may drop out legally once they turn 18. Students who are 16 or 17 may also leave school, but only if they:
- have their parents’ permission, and
- pass the California High School Proficiency Exam, which leads to a certificate that’s equivalent to a diploma (more on that below).
(Cal. Educ. Code §§ 48200, 48412 (2019).)
School Alternatives and Exemptions
California allows students alternatives to regular full-time public school, including:
- private school
- private tutoring
- part-time classes for students with work permits, and
- continuing education programs (which could include independent study).
Children are also exempt from compulsory education if they’re disqualified from continuing education because of their physical or mental condition, or because they’re caring for a dependent (such as their own child).
In addition, students who are at least 15 may take a leave of absence of supervised travel, study, training, or work. And finally, the state has special rules for students who are temporarily disabled or have work permits in the entertainment industry. (Cal. Educ. Code §§48220-48232, 48410-48416 (2019).)
Costs of Dropping Out
Most people know that dropping out of school is likely to bring financial consequences down the road. But when students simply stop going to school before they graduate or meet California's requirements for dropping out legally, they could face more immediate consequences. California imposes a range of penalties for truancy, from special school programs to fines and even juvenile court. If you're a parent of a child who's habitually truant, it would be a good idea to speak with an education lawyer who can protect your child's rights—and your own.
High School Equivalency Tests
Californians without a high school diploma can receive a high school equivalency certificate if they pass one of the three high school equivalency tests approved in the state. But in order to take the test, you have to be at least 18 years old (or 17 if you meet one of one of the other requirements).