Are foreign language courses important to college admissions?

Totally perplexed about how many years of a foreign language I need. Do colleges want to see proficiency in languages, and does it matter which language it is? I've got options at school, but not sure which one might look better on college apps.

It's great that you're thinking ahead! To answer your question, many colleges do like to see students who have taken at least two to three years of the same foreign language, as it shows persistence and willingness to challenge oneself. The particular language you choose is less important than the commitment to learning it, so go with the one that interests you most. For example, a student who chooses Spanish and reaches an advanced level or takes AP Spanish is demonstrating just as valuable a skill set as someone who chooses French and does the same. If you're aiming for more selective schools, they might expect three or more years of language study. My advice is to pick the language you enjoy and stick with it throughout high school to show a growth in proficiency. And if you have a specific college in mind, check their admissions requirements for any language prerequisites!