Admissions Requirements: These are the minimum qualifications a student must meet to even be *considered* for admission to the university itself. They apply *before* you're even accepted into a specific program. These generally include:
* High school diploma or equivalent (GED): Proof of secondary education completion.
* Transcripts: Showing your grades and courses taken.
* Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT, etc.): Although many universities are test-optional or test-blind now, some still require them.
* Letters of recommendation: From teachers, counselors, or other relevant individuals.
* Essays or personal statements: Showcasing your personality, goals, and qualifications.
* Application fee: A fee to process your application.
* English language proficiency test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.): For international students whose native language isn't English.
Program Prerequisites: These are the specific courses or qualifications you need to have *before* you can be accepted into a particular *program* within the university. They only matter *after* you've been admitted to the university. Examples include:
* Specific high school courses: Such as advanced math, science, or language courses for STEM or humanities programs.
* College-level coursework: Certain introductory courses might be required before you can enroll in more advanced courses within a program (e.g., introductory chemistry before organic chemistry).
* Minimum GPA: A specific grade point average might be required in relevant courses or overall.
* Portfolio submission: For art, design, or architecture programs.
* Auditions or interviews: For music, theater, or other performance-based programs.
In short: Admissions requirements get you *into* the university; program prerequisites get you *into* a specific program *within* that university. You must fulfill both to successfully enroll in your desired program. Failing to meet admissions requirements means you won't even be considered for any programs. Failing to meet program prerequisites means you'll be admitted to the university but not the specific program you applied for.