This manual contains the general information on Regents Examinations, Regents Competency tests, occupational education proficiency examinations, and second language proficiency examinations, as well as the regulations and procedures for ordering, administering, and rating these examinations. The Regents Examinations are achievement tests based on State courses of study in New York schools. Passing scores on the Regents examinations in English, mathematics, science, and social studies satisfy the competency testing requirements for a high school diploma. The Regents Competency tests are achievement tests to assess student proficiency in reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies. The occupational education proficiency examinations are achievement tests based on State courses of study in occupational education. The second language proficiency examinations are optional achievement tests usually taken by students who wish to earn high school credits in a second language. The manual also contains information about the competency test requirements for a local diploma, the Regents endorsement of a local diploma, and the granting of credit for State courses of study. Appendices give the addresses of testing and subject matter bureaus, acceptable college admissions test substitutions, examples of modified testing procedures for handicapped students, a sample letter to parents, and pertinent State regulations. (SLD)