COLLEGE ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Four-Year College Requirements

Many colleges and universities have course requirements beyond the minimums for high school graduation. While college entrance requirements vary from one college to another, a student preparing to enroll in a four-year institution after high school should complete the following:


English - 4 years
Math - 3 years (2 years algebra, 1 year geometry)
Science - 2 years (including at least 1 year of lab science)
Foreign Language - 2 years of same language
Social Studies - 3 years
Fine, Visual or Performing Arts or additional academic electives - 1 year

Refer to the handout, “Freshman Admission to Public Baccalaureate Colleges and Universities in the State of Washington” for more information. Copies can be obtained in the Counseling Center or downloaded from the link below.

It is highly recommended that students take challenging courses such as honors and Advanced Placement classes, additional electives from two or more of the above core areas, and that they complete a course in computers or keyboarding. Students interested in a career involving math and/or science should plan to complete four years of college preparatory math and science. Counselors can be of assistance in planning a four-year program to meet the needs of individual students and their college choices.

Other Programs at Olympia High School which support college prepartion and advancement:

Advanced Placement

Advanced Placement (AP), a program developed by the College Board, enables high school students to study college-level material through enrollment in an AP course. Students have the opportunity to demonstrate mastery of the subject by taking an AP exam in May. Based on these AP scores, colleges and universities may then grant credit, placement or both. Students can benefit from these courses by learning a subject in greater depth, developing skills critically important to successful study in college, and demonstrating their willingness to undertake a challenging course. The Olympia Scholar Award is presented to graduating seniors who have taken a challenging course of study throughout high school and have demonstrated excellence in extra-curricular activities. Information about the requirements for this honor can be found in the Advanced Placement Coordinator's Office.

Tech-Prep Program

Tech-Prep is a program which links OHS courses in the Business, Family & Consumer Science, Technology, Science Departments and New Market Vocational Skills Center with programs at South Puget Sound Community College. It is designed to teach students the skills required in a modern workplace. Students who do well may receive college credit and advanced standing toward their associate degree at no cost while still in high school. For more information contact teachers in the appropriate department.

Running Start

Running Start is a program that allows eligible juniors and seniors to enroll in college level classes at South Puget Sound Community College to receive both high school and college credit. In order to qualify for the program students must comply with all college requirements including placement testing and maintenance of acceptable academic standing.

Resources to Download:

Higher Education Coordinating Board Updated College Requirements

HECB Parent and Student College Requirement Guide

Preparing for College Brochure

2006 Freshman Admission to Public Baccalaureate Colleges and Universities in Washington State Contains Active Weblinks)

Freshman Admission to Independent Baccalaureate Colleges and Universities in Washington State (Document Contains Active Weblinks)