College Preparation Starts Early
You can maximize the chances that your child will be admitted to the four-year college of his choice as a freshman by paying attention to the courses he takes as early as the seventh grade, when high school level courses are made available to some students. Four-year colleges and universities generally require that students take specific classes at the college preparatory level. College preparatory curriculums involve sequences of courses taken over the span of several years, particularly in subjects like mathematics and foreign languages, where prior knowledge is most crucial. A college preparatory program requires classes beyond the minimum required for graduation at most schools. In addition, the classes tend to be more rigorous and, in general, grades below a “C” don’t count towards fulfilling college requirements.
High School Graduation Requirements
Graduation requirements vary from state to state, and individual school districts often impose additional requirements. For this reason, it is best to contact your child’s school directly if you wish to learn what is needed to graduate. The courses generally required are as follows:
- English (usually 3-4 years)
- History/social science (usually 2-3 years)
- Mathematics (usually 2-3 years)
- Science (usually 2-3 years)
- Physical education/health (usually 2 years)
- Some states also require classes in the arts or in a foreign language.
College admission requirements differ greatly from one college or university to the next. A student can maximize his chances for admission by taking challenging classes in core academic areas. A strong college preparatory sequence includes the following classes:
- English (4 years)
- History/social sciences (3-4 years)
- Mathematics (3-4 years)
- Science (3-4 years)
- Foreign language (one language for 2-4 years)
- Electives in the arts
For information about the admissions requirements at a particular school, consult the school’s Web site. You can also use the College Quick-Finder, a free service of the College Board.
Parents should devote particular attention to ensuring that their children meet the mathematics and foreign language requirements of the schools to which they are applying. Students applying to a four-year college or university typically must complete three math courses – the Algebra I / Geometry / Algebra II sequence or a series of three courses that integrate the material. Students who begin this sequence in middle school naturally have a better chance of successfully completing the requirements. Accordingly, some middle schools are now offering the first year of algebra as a two-year sequence starting in seventh grade. Other schools offer Algebra I, or its equivalent, in eighth grade. The foreign language requirement is also a particular challenge for some, so it is advisable to begin this program freshman year. This is especially important for those with no prior experience learning a foreign language.
Students with specialized interests have other considerations. Those interested in the visual arts may need to work on assembling a portfolio during high school. Auditions are often required of applicants to strong performing arts programs. Those interested in studying engineering, math or science should take classes beyond the required minimum in relevant subjects.
Community Colleges
For students who do not complete the standard college preparatory requirements, or who are not ready to enter a four-year college directly after high school, community colleges are an excellent option. Community colleges are open to all who are at least 18 years old or who have a high school diploma, a General Education Degree (GED) or a high school equivalent certificate. These low-cost institutions offer several opportunities. They can provide preparation for a specific career through intensive (and often highly regarded) certificate programs. Alternatively, they allow for completion of the work needed to qualify for admission, typically as a junior, to a four-year college. However, admission to community colleges follows the same principle as admission to four-year institutions. The better a student performs in high school, and the more rigorous the classes he chooses to take, the more opportunities will be available at the community college level.
Workplace Success Begins In High School
Many high schools are using an approach called "career pathways" to help guide students. The objective is to help them articulate and plan for a long-term career goal. Industry-sponsored "career academies" are available in some schools, focusing on career areas such as finance, medicine and communications. The idea is not to limit students' options, but rather to direct their focus in school and help them understand how what they're learning connects to the real world. Advocates of these programs say students leave high school better prepared for success either in college or as an employee.
Additional Resources
To learn about the upcoming changes in the SAT and to help your child prepare for this important college admissions test, check these articles:
The New SAT: College Admissions Test Gets a Major Overhaul
Get Ready for the SAT: Help Your Child Score High
Updated August 2002
