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Finishing High School

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Finishing High School

Minimum Coursework for College Readiness

Colleges require you to take certain courses during high school. And your high school requires you to take certain courses to graduate. So talk to your teachers and school counselor for help on selecting your middle school courses. This will help you become eligible to take the high school courses that will help you get you into college.

	Middle School Courses that Prepare You for High School and College
	Algebra I and Geometry (generally offered in the eighth and ninth grades). Algebra and geometry are the foundation for high school math and science.
	English, Science, History or Geography. Together with math, these make up the basic academic courses you should take every year.
	Foreign Language. Many colleges require at least two years of a foreign language in high school for admission. Even if your middle school doesn’t require these classes, they will help you prepare for college.
	Computer Classes. Basic computer skills (such as learning how to use computers, the Internet, and software for homework or class projects) are often required by colleges and for most jobs. Take advantage of opportunities at your school to learn as many computer skills as you can.
	The Arts. Taking classes in art, music, and theatre can help you explore interests outside of academics. And some colleges consider these courses valuable in helping you attain a broader understanding and appreciation of the world, as well as contributing to your intellectual development.
(source: U.S. Department of Education; www.ed.gov)

Complete List of High School Courses You Must Take to Get into College These are the courses colleges require you take during high school. Colleges look at your grades from ninth grade to senior year. Every letter grade you get is reviewed by a college admissions officer.
English/Language Arts: 4 years American Literature Writing/Composition English Literature World Literature	Social Studies/History & Geography: 3 years U.S. History U.S. Government Geography World History or World Cultures Civics or Economics	Sciences: 2 to 4 years Biology Chemistry Earth/Space Sciences Physics
Mathematics: 3 or 4 years Algebra I and Algebra II Calculus Geometry Trigonometry	Other Courses Needed Foreign language: 2 to 3 years of the same language Visual & Performing Arts: 1 year Challenging Elective Computers Communications

(source: www.educationplanner.com (Preparing \| First Generation Students)

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Taking the right courses is not the only thing you need to get started. Getting good grades makes it much easier to get into college. Good grades can actually lower your college costs, too by helping you qualify for a scholarship or allowing you to “test out” of certain courses. If you need help with your school work or developing good study habits, ask for it now. Colleges look at your grades from ninth grade to senior year. Every letter grade you get is reviewed by a college admissions officer.

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