Requirements for earning the diploma vary by jurisdiction, and there may be different requirements for different streams or levels of high school graduation. The diploma is awarded by the school in accordance with the requirements of the local state or provincial government. It is the school leaving qualification in the United States and Canada. A high school diploma is awarded after completion of courses of studies lasting four years, typically from grade 9 to grade 12. Diploma awarded for completing high schoolĪ high school diploma (or high school degree) is a diploma awarded upon graduation of high school.