Colleges look for students who have at least a high school diploma or GED. In addition, many schools want students to submit scores from standardized tests such as the American College Test (ACT) or the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT). Schools such as Monroe Community College in New York also require students to complete English and math college placement tests such as ACCUPLACER, developed by the College Board. This type of test showcases students' academic strengths and weaknesses and thus determines the types of courses they should start with at the college.
Students who want to enroll in a two-year associate degree or four-year bachelor's degree program also must submit high school transcripts that show they have completed various prerequisite courses. These course eligibility requirements generally include English, mathematics, lab science, social science, foreign language, history and fine art, with the number of required years in each subject area varying by school. If high school students have completed any college-level coursework, they must submit transcripts of all colleges attended. Home-schooled students also must submit a home study certificate or a state-approved transcript from a home study program.
In addition, some college programs require high school students to take several college-level prerequisite courses before enrolling in their particular program. For example, in the dental hygiene associate degree program at Indiana University, students must complete courses including public speaking, human anatomy/physiology and chemistry with a lab. In many health care programs, such as the medical assisting program offered by Kaplan College, students must show proof of various immunizations and pass a criminal background check to be eligible for enrollment.
At some colleges -- particularly private colleges and universities -- students must complete an admission interview as part of the application process. The interview shows a school's admission team a student's personality and why he is interested in that particular school. Other colleges, such as Emory University, want students to submit recommendation forms or letters from individuals such as guidance counselors, teachers or employers.
One of the most important parts of the college admissions process is the college application. The application allows students to list their personal contact information in addition to answering short-answer or essay questions on various topics. These topics could include an explanation of their career goals or a description of how they overcame a personal obstacle. Students typically must pay an application fee as well.