* The college: Different colleges have different admission requirements.
* The program of study: A prospective engineering major will need different high school classes than a prospective art major.
* The country/state: High school graduation requirements vary significantly by location.
However, generally speaking, most colleges will look for a strong foundation in these areas:
* English/Language Arts: Demonstrates reading comprehension, writing skills, and critical thinking. Usually involves multiple years of coursework.
* Mathematics: The level required varies widely depending on the intended major. At minimum, algebra is usually expected, but calculus or other advanced math is often recommended or required for STEM fields.
* Science: Generally includes biology, chemistry, and/or physics. The number of science classes and specific courses needed depend on the intended major.
* Social Studies/History: This often includes history, government, and economics. The number of courses and specific subjects vary by location and college.
* Foreign Language (sometimes): Some colleges require or recommend foreign language study.
In short: You need to check the specific admission requirements of the colleges you're interested in attending. Their websites will have detailed information on what courses are required for admission consideration. Furthermore, counselors at your high school can provide valuable guidance on what courses you should take to prepare for college.