I'm a junior and planning to apply to USC next year. I want to make sure my high school classes align with their requirements. Does anyone have a list or know where I could find it?
USC outlines their recommended high school course requirements for entering first-year students. While these aren't strict requirements, they are a guideline to help you be competitive when you apply. Here is a list of the recommended courses:
1. English: 4 years, with an emphasis on writing, literature, and advanced composition.
2. Mathematics: 3-4 years, with a preference for 4 years. At least three years of college preparatory mathematics, including Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II, are recommended. Advanced math courses, such as pre-calculus, calculus, and statistics, are highly recommended.
3. Science: 2-4 years of laboratory sciences, including biology, chemistry, and physics.
4. Social Sciences: 2 years, including U.S. history and other social sciences like government, geography, economics, psychology, etc.
5. Foreign Language: 2-4 years of the same foreign language. USC highly values language proficiency and encourages students to take more than just the minimum, if possible.
6. Academic Electives: 3 years of art, music, theater, or dance, or an additional year of foreign language, English, or science.
Although these are recommendations, it's important to keep in mind that most competitive applicants to USC will have taken a rigorous high school curriculum that meets or exceeds these recommendations. Make sure to challenge yourself and maintain strong grades in your high school courses to be a strong candidate for USC admissions.
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