Undergraduate Prerequisites:
* High School Diploma or Equivalent: This is the fundamental requirement for almost all undergraduate programs globally. This might be a high school diploma, GED, or an equivalent international qualification.
* Specific Subject Requirements: Many programs require specific high school courses, often in mathematics, science, English, and potentially foreign languages. For example, a pre-med track might require specific biology, chemistry, and physics courses. Engineering programs usually require strong math and science backgrounds. These requirements are *highly* program-specific.
* Entrance Exams: Some countries or universities require standardized tests like the SAT, ACT (US), A-Levels (UK), IB Diploma (International Baccalaureate), or other national or regional exams.
* GPA (Grade Point Average): Universities consider your high school GPA as a measure of academic achievement. Minimum GPA requirements vary considerably.
* Letters of Recommendation: Some universities may require letters of recommendation from teachers or counselors.
* Personal Essay or Statement of Purpose: Many universities require applicants to submit a personal essay outlining their academic goals and reasons for applying.
Postgraduate Prerequisites:
* Bachelor's Degree: A bachelor's degree (or equivalent) from an accredited institution is the fundamental prerequisite for all postgraduate programs (master's, doctoral, etc.).
* Specific Undergraduate Major or Coursework: Many postgraduate programs require a specific undergraduate major or a certain number of courses in related fields. For example, a Master's in Electrical Engineering might require a bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a closely related field, and specific undergraduate coursework in areas like circuit analysis and digital signal processing.
* GPA: Your undergraduate GPA is crucial for postgraduate admissions. The minimum GPA requirement varies widely depending on the program's competitiveness.
* Entrance Exams: Many postgraduate programs, especially in STEM fields and business, require standardized tests like the GRE (Graduate Record Examinations), GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test), LSAT (Law School Admission Test), MCAT (Medical College Admission Test), or other relevant exams.
* Letters of Recommendation: Strong letters of recommendation from professors or supervisors are essential for most postgraduate applications.
* Statement of Purpose: A well-written statement of purpose is vital for explaining your academic goals, research interests, and reasons for applying to a specific program.
* Work Experience: Some postgraduate programs, particularly professional programs like MBAs, value relevant work experience.
* Portfolio (for certain fields): Programs in fields like architecture, design, and fine arts often require a portfolio showcasing your work.
* English Language Proficiency Tests (for international students): International students whose native language is not English typically need to provide proof of English language proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS.
To find the specific prerequisites for a particular program:
Always check the university's or program's official website. Look for the admissions requirements, application deadlines, and any specific course prerequisites. Contact the admissions office directly if you have any questions.