Expert Instruction
Science
Mathematics, Computer Science, Economics
English
History
Languages
Philosophy
Our Curriculum
The Stanford OHS curriculum goes beyond the norm of satisfying admissions standards at top colleges and universities around the world. It prepares students to excel at those institutions and to make a smooth transition into working in those demanding academic environments while encouraging intellectual risk-taking and life-long learning.
The Core Sequence
Methodology of Science – Biology
History and Philosophy of Science
Democracy, Freedom, and the Rule of Law
Critical Reading and Argumentation
Graduation Requirements
Our graduation requirements demonstrate how bringing together a Core Sequence program, discipline-appropriate training, advanced coursework beyond the AP-level, high expectations, and thoughtful feedback creates an innovative, integrated curriculum.
Academic Course Requirements
As part of these requirements, students must enroll in one Core class each high-school year to receive an OHS diploma.
English:
4 years / 40 units
Languages:
2 years / 20 units of the same language; 3 or more years strongly recommended
Mathematics:
4 years / 40 units
Social Sciences:
3 years / 30 units, including 1 year of U.S. History
Natural Sciences:
3 years / 30 units, including at least 2 years of laboratory science
Additional Coursework:
4 years / 40 units, which may include courses from the areas noted here or from Film Studies, Music, and Art
Middle School
At the Stanford OHS Middle School, students are in the company of equally passionate peers and receive academic support to ensure a smooth transition to the high school level.
Courses
Access to High School Level Courses
Summer @ Stanford
Malone Schools Online Network
Academics FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions for Academics
How do grade levels work at Stanford OHS?
Show
Hide
How do grade levels work at Stanford OHS?
Students' grade levels are set by their graduation year, regardless of which courses they are taking.
Can students in grades 7–8 take high school courses?
Show
Hide
Can students in grades 7–8 take high school courses?
Students in grades 7–8 occasionally place into a high school level Stanford OHS course. A placement test will determine a middle school student's readiness to take a high-school level class. This is more common in mathematics than in other academic divisions, where it is rare. Please note that middle school students may not take high school Core classes.
How are lab experiments carried out at Stanford OHS?
Show
Hide
How are lab experiments carried out at Stanford OHS?
Students complete labs at home using commonly available materials or lab kits sent to students' homes.
What is the school’s approach to offering AP courses?
Show
Hide
What is the school’s approach to offering AP courses?
The Stanford OHS curriculum offers advanced coursework in all academic disciplines. As a school we have replaced a number of our AP courses with courses designed for Stanford OHS students. These courses have been very well-received by colleges and universities, and, based on this success, we will phase out all AP courses by Fall 2024. Students are able to take AP Exams even if they are enrolled in a different, non-AP course at a comparable level. Students will need to register for and take AP Exams at a local school.
What if students don’t place into the specific course they want to take?
Show
Hide
What if students don’t place into the specific course they want to take?
Our placement tests are carefully calibrated to make sure students are placed into courses in which they will thrive. If you did not place into the course you want to take, consider taking the course recommended by your academic advisor in the same subject or in a related one. If you have questions about your placement, your academic advisor can put you in contact with the relevant division head.