About Alberta Diploma Exams
Everything you need to know, from weighting, rules, format, and how to prepare.
Quick Facts
30%
Of your overall grade
70% from your school mark
2×/year
Main Exam Sessions
January & June
2x Time
Up to 6 hours
Allowed double official testing time to complete exam
Required
Photo ID
Government-issued or school-issued
📖 What Are Diploma Examinations?
Alberta Diploma Examinations are standardized, province-wide assessments written by Grade 12 students at the end of specific courses. They are developed by Alberta Education to measure student achievement of the Alberta Programs of Study.
Diploma exams help ensure that a Grade 12 course mark means the same thing across every school in Alberta, whether you're in a large urban centre or a small rural school.
The diploma exam counts for 30% of your final course mark. Your school-based assessment (coursework, projects, tests) makes up the remaining 70%.
📊 How Your Final Mark Is Calculated
Final Mark = (School Mark × 0.70) + (Diploma Mark × 0.30)
Example: School 82% + Diploma 75% = 79.9%
Because the diploma exam is only 30%, your school-based mark carries significant weight. However, the diploma can meaningfully raise or lower your final grade if the two marks differ greatly.
⚠️ Diploma Rewrite Policy
Students may rewrite a diploma exam. The highest blended mark from any attempt is the one that counts on your transcript. Consult your school counsellor for rewrite registration procedures and deadlines.
📚 Diploma Exam Subjects
📋 General Exam Rules & Policies
Government-Issued Photo ID
You must present a valid government-issued photo ID at check-in. Acceptable forms include: Alberta Student ID card, Alberta driver's licence, Canadian passport, or Permanent Resident card.
Arrive Early
Students must arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start time. Late arrivals may not be permitted entry after the exam has begun.
No Electronic Devices
Cell phones, smartwatches, earbuds, and all personal electronic devices must be turned off and stored out of sight. Possession of a device during the exam may be treated as academic dishonesty.
Approved Writing Materials
Pencils are required for bubble sheets (multiple choice). Pens are acceptable for written-response sections. Correction fluid (white-out) is generally prohibited.
No Unauthorized Aids
No textbooks, notes, or study materials unless explicitly stated. Subject-specific rules apply. See each subject page for details.
Accommodations
Students with documented disabilities or medical needs may be eligible for exam accommodations (extra time, quiet space, etc.). Accommodations must be arranged through your school well before the exam date.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🗓️ Exam Process
Register
Your school registers you for the diploma exam when you enrol in the course.
Prepare
Study using past exams, review sheets, and the topic guides on this site.
Check Date
Confirm your exam date, time, and location with your school well in advance.
Day of Exam
Bring your photo ID, approved materials, and arrive at least 15 minutes early.
Write the Exam
Complete the exam in the allotted time. Show all work in written-response sections.
Results
Results are released a few weeks after the exam session ends.
🔗 Official Alberta Resources
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