Is a foreign language requirement common in college?

Hey, I'm preparing for college applications and was wondering if colleges generally require you to take a language once you're there. Also, do you need a foreign language in high school to get into college in the first place? Trying to see if I should continue with my Spanish classes or not.

Many universities do have a foreign language requirement, especially those with a strong focus on the liberal arts. Typically, these schools require you to take one to three semesters of a foreign language, depending on your major and whether or not you already have language proficiency. This is seen as part of developing well-rounded graduates who have a basic understanding of another culture, which can be beneficial in today's global society.

As for high school requirements, most competitive colleges recommend or require studying a foreign language for at least two years, with some schools preferring three to four years, especially for students applying to more selective institutions or specific programs. Moreover, if you're considering majoring or minoring in a language or a field that uses foreign languages (like international relations or global studies), it would be highly beneficial to continue your language study in high school.

Just be sure to consider whether you'll want to continue learning Spanish since colleges often value depth in a given area. It might not be the right choice for everyone, but persisting with a language throughout high school could indicate a degree of dedication that might appeal to college admissions officers. It's worth keeping this in mind as you make your decision.