MS SB2176

Students must correctly answer at least 80% of the 100-question United States Citizenship and Immigration Services civics test to receive a high school diploma, beginning with students graduating in or after the 2017-2018 school year.

The civics test requirement applies to students in public school districts and those pursuing a General Equivalency Diploma (GED), with exemptions available for students covered under an Individualized Education Plan (IEP).

Students may take the test beginning in Grade 11 and are allowed up to three attempts to demonstrate 80% proficiency.

The United States History curriculum and corresponding Mississippi Subject Area Test must include historical knowledge from the settlement of Jamestown, Virginia in 1607 to the present, beginning with the 2016-2017 school year.

The State Department of Education and school districts are prohibited from charging any fees or collecting charges in connection with the civics test requirement.