What are prerequisite classes for college?

I've been hearing about prerequisite classes for college and how they can impact admissions. Can someone explain what they are and why they're important? Do most colleges require certain classes to be taken in high school? Thanks for any info!

Prerequisite classes for college, also known as core or foundational courses, are specific high school courses that colleges may require or recommend students to have completed before enrolling in certain programs or classes at the college level. These courses help ensure that students have a solid foundation in core subjects and are academically prepared for higher-level coursework.

Many colleges have general prerequisite requirements, as they'll want to see that students developed key skills like critical thinking, writing, analysis, creativity, and so on through a certain number of years in English, history, math, science, and foreign language classes. Certain schools may also have more specific prerequisites for specific majors or programs. For example, engineering programs may require students to have completed a certain level of math and science courses during high school (e.g., calculus and physics). Similarly, a business major might require the completion of certain math and economics courses.

Prerequisite classes are essential because they help colleges evaluate whether a student is prepared for their chosen major, or a more rigorous college curriculum in general. Colleges don't have prerequisites to be mean - rather, they want to be sure students are set up to succeed in their chosen program, by having the foundational knowledge needed to excel in their college coursework.

Admission requirements can vary greatly from college to college, so it's crucial to research the schools and programs you are interested in to understand their specific prerequisites. Many universities also appreciate students who challenge themselves by taking Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses in their areas of interest.

To ensure you're meeting the prerequisites for your desired colleges and programs, work with your high school guidance counselor to plan your courses accordingly. Also, be prepared to demonstrate your readiness for college-level coursework by maintaining good grades in these prerequisite classes and showcasing a strong academic background on your college application through supplementary materials like essays. Best of luck with your academic pursuits and college applications!