Navigating College Entrance Requirements: A Comprehensive Guide

Entering college is a significant step, and understanding the admission requirements is crucial for a smooth transition. This article provides a comprehensive overview of college entrance requirements, drawing upon insights from various institutions and addressing key aspects of the application process.

General Admission Requirements: The Foundation

At a minimum, prospective students will need to have earned a high school diploma or GED (or be close to it) as part of the general admissions requirements. Some programs of study also have specific entrance requirements. These requirements ensure that students have attained a foundational level of knowledge and skills necessary for college-level coursework. Spokane Community College (SCC), for instance, has an "open door" admission policy admitting any high school graduate. For individuals without a high school diploma or GED, SCC offers the Ability to Benefit (ATB) program, allowing them to enter college and access federal financial aid after successfully completing six college credits.

Academic Preparation: Key Coursework

Colleges generally expect applicants to have completed a set of college-preparatory courses in high school. These courses typically include:

English: Four years of college-preparatory English that include frequent writing, from brainstorming to final paper, as well as reading of classic and modern literature. For each year required through the 11th grade, a grade of C or better in a non-transferable college course of 3 or more semester (4 or more quarter) units in English composition, literature (American or English) or foreign literature in translation.
Mathematics: Three years of math, including Algebra I, Geometry and Algebra II (or the sequential content equivalent of these courses). Three years of college-preparatory mathematics that include the topics covered in elementary and advanced algebra and two- and three-dimensional geometry; a fourth year of math is strongly recommended. All students must complete a geometry course or integrated math with geometry content (e.g., Math II).
Science: Two years of laboratory science. Two years of college-preparatory science, including or integrating topics that provide fundamental knowledge in two of these three subjects: biology, chemistry, or physics. One year of approved interdisciplinary or earth and space sciences coursework can meet one year of the requirement. A third year of science is recommended.
Social Studies: Three years of social studies, including global studies (i.e. history).
Foreign Language: Two years, or equivalent to the 2nd level of high school instruction, of the same language other than English are required. Courses should emphasize speaking and understanding, and include instruction in grammar, vocabulary, reading, composition and culture. American Sign Language and classical languages, such as Latin and Greek, are acceptable, as are Native American languages. Grade of C or better in any transferable course(s) (excluding conversation) held by the college to be equivalent to two years of high school language.

It's important to note that taking high school (A-G) courses isn't the only way to satisfy these requirements. You also may meet them by completing college courses or earning certain scores on various acceptable exams.

Standardized Tests and Proficiency

Many colleges require applicants to submit scores from standardized tests such as the SAT or ACT. These tests assess a student's readiness for college-level work. The University of Montana (UM), for example, requires students to demonstrate readiness in areas of mathematics and writing and meet minimum proficiency scores in Math and English. Freshmen who have not demonstrated Math and English proficiency levels at the time of admission will be required to sit for placement testing prior to first-term registration. Yes, the highest score received on any administration of the same version of the SAT for critical reading will be combined with the highest score received on math. The College Board implemented a new version of the SAT in March 2016.

The Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Once you’ve found a college (or colleges) that would fit you, it’s time to apply. Don’t worry if you are still undecided. The application process actually provides additional information to help you make that final decision. The application process typically involves the following steps:

Submitting an Application: Complete the college's undergraduate admission application. The University of Montana (UM) requires applicants to submit a complete UM undergraduate admission application and pay the $30 application fee. South Dakota’s public technical colleges and universities offer free applications for two months each fall.
Paying the Application Fee: Most colleges charge an application fee.
Submitting Transcripts: An unofficial transcript is required for initial admissions and scholarship consideration, but don't sweat it. If you decide to enroll, we'll need your official transcripts issued from every regionally accredited institution you previously attended are required, regardless of whether credit was earned or its applicability to your degree plan at UM. Remember to send in an official HiSET or GED which must include test date and test scores.
Submitting Test Scores: Send official SAT or ACT scores to the college.

Conditional Admission

Students who have a high school diploma or its recognized equivalent, but do not otherwise meet the admission requirements for University of Montana, may be admitted on a conditional basis. To be admitted conditionally, the Director of Admissions, or their designee, must determine that a student could be successful by taking advantage of the academic support services that are available. Students will be granted full admission after completing 24 credits with a grade point average of at least 2.0. Students are expected to complete the 24 credits within two semesters but must complete them within three semesters.

Residency and Tuition

Your residency status (Washington state resident vs. non-resident) determines your tuition and fees. Are you a Washington resident who has been out of Washington state for educational purposes only?

Additional Considerations for Specific Student Groups

Freshman Students: Freshman students are those who have completed high school or its equivalent. Students who have completed fewer than 12 semester college-level credits at another institutionally recognized college or university after high school graduation are considered incoming freshmen.
Transfer Students and Returning Students: NOTE: Transfer students and returning students may have additional steps in the application process related to previously earned credits and financial aid.
Second-Degree Students: Students seeking a second degree are advised to speak with a transfer counselor at individual universities prior to completing the application process. In some cases, programs will not accept students who have already completed a bachelor’s degree. In other cases, some of the work completed toward the first degree might count toward the second degree, or can satisfy prerequisites.
Older Students, Veterans, and Active Military Members: The UNC System is committed to serving students at every stage in their higher education journey. Older students seeking admission to UNC System institutions for the first time, transfer students, veterans, and active members of the military have all encountered immersive learning experiences that enhance their academic histories.

Seeking Guidance and Support

College admissions representatives are here to help you navigate the process of entering college. Not only do they provide specific information about their college, but they can also help you find your best college fit. Admissions representatives are great at taking your career interests and other college search criteria and then pointing you in the right direction. They can also give you tips on what scholarships you should consider applying for as well as connect you with on-campus resources.

The UNC System: Minimum Requirements

The University of North Carolina System is open to anyone who is prepared to succeed at one of 16 public universities across the state of North Carolina. The Minimum Eligibility Requirements (GPA and standardized test scores) and Minimum Course Requirements (required high school courses) outlined below are required for admission Systemwide. While meeting these requirements does not guarantee admission to any specific university or program, they determine eligibility for admissions consideration. Admission to individual institutions and specific academic programs may be more competitive and demand additional requirements beyond the minimums listed below. The Systemwide minimum eligibility requirements are guidelines to help future students and university administrators determine if applicants are ready to meet the challenges of a four-year degree program, or if they might benefit from additional preparatory work at a community college before transferring into the UNC System. In addition to meeting the minimum eligibility requirements, students need to have completed some core high school-level coursework. * Criteria must be met by the time of enrollment at the UNC institution* Being exempt from these requirements does not guarantee admission.

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