Advanced Honors Endorsement

Challenge Yourself. Prepare for What's Next.

The South Dakota Advanced Honors Endorsement recognizes students who pursue a rigorous course of study throughout high school. By completing coursework beyond standard diploma requirements, students demonstrate college readiness while preparing for future educational and career opportunities.

Students who earn the Advanced Honors Endorsement are also on track to earn the South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship, which provides eligible students with up to $7,500 over four years of college.

Why Pursue an Advanced Honors Endorsement?

The Advanced Honors Endorsement serves as a roadmap for students who want to take the right courses, prepare for college, and maximize future opportunities. Students should incorporate the endorsement requirements into their Personal Learning Plan (PLP) and revisit their progress each year. Your PLP helps you map out your high school coursework based on your college and career goals.

Students who pursue the Advanced Honors Endorsement benefit from:

  • College-ready coursework.
  • Potential eligibility for the South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship (up to $7,500).
  • Opportunities for academic distinction, including Regent Scholar designation.
  • Confidence that they are on the right path for college and beyond.

Did You Know?

Students who complete the Advanced Honors Endorsement requirements are also on track to earn the South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship—worth up to $7,500 over four years.

Learn about the SD Opportunity Scholarship

ADVANCED HONORS ENDORSEMENT REQUIREMENTS

Requirements highlighted in red represent coursework beyond South Dakota’s standard high school diploma requirements.

PLAN EARLY FOR SUCCESS

The best time to begin planning for the Advanced Honors Endorsement is before high school begins.

Students and families are encouraged to:

  • Review graduation requirements with their school counselor.
  • Develop (or update) your Personal Learning Plan (PLP) with your school counselor.
  • Explore dual enrollment opportunities.
  • Monitor South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship eligibility requirements.
  • Consider how coursework aligns with future college and career goals.

Need Help Planning?

Talk with your school counselor about updating your Personal Learning Plan (PLP) so it aligns with your interests, college and career goals, and the requirements for the Advanced Honors Endorsement.

What is a Personal Learning Plan (PLP)? Every South Dakota student develops a Personal Learning Plan (PLP) in grades 9–12 to guide course selection and explore college and career options. Learn more about PLPs on SDMyLife.

Personal Learning Plan (PLP)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. Who can earn the Advanced Honors Endorsement?
2. Does the Advanced Honors Endorsement guarantee admission to college?
3. Is the Advanced Honors Endorsement required for the South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship?
4. Can dual enrollment courses count toward the requirements?
5. When should students begin planning?
6. Is the Advanced Honors Endorsement required to attend college?
7. What is the difference between the Advanced Honors Endorsement and a standard high school diploma?

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CONTINUE YOUR COLLEGE READINESS JOURNEY

South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship
High School Dual Enrollment
Math Pathways Advising Tools
College Readiness Coursework
Career Exploration
Paying for College

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