English skills are needed to be able to read nursing textbooks and communicate in a clinical setting. A college-level English class is a prerequisite for many RN programs.
Most RN schools require a prerequisite class in college-level math, such as algebra. Some pre-nursing students also have to take a short course in drug calculations or "health math."
Chemistry and biology are also common prerequisites. Microbiology, anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology may need to be taken either before or after starting RN classes, depending on the school you attend.
At some colleges, students must take psychology, speech, or medical terminology before enrolling in RN classes. You also have to get a good score on the nursing school entrance exam.
Prerequisites are meant to prepare you for the rigors of nursing school. The grades that you get in them will help determine whether you're accepted to an RN program.