High school graduation requirements in states throughout the U.S. were reviewed to better understand how well they align with what students need to be successful in college or the workplace. It was found that no state requires its graduates to take the courses that reflect the real-world demands of work and postsecondary education. Recommendations include the following: (1) requiring all students to take a common college and work-preparatory curriculum in math and English; (2) giving attention to content, not just course titles; (3) aligning academic standards in high school with the knowledge and skills required for college and workplace success; (4) working with postsecondary officials and employers to define the knowledge and skills necessary for graduates to successfully perform in college and the workplace; (5) providing clear guidance on essential courses and allowing flexibility for instructional approaches. States should encourage all students to pursue accelerated options for earning postsecondary credit while in high school.