High School Preparation

More about High School Preparation

If you are considering attending Michigan State as a freshman, you should pursue a college preparatory curriculum that at a minimum includes:

  • four years of English (composition and literature)
  • three years of math (two years of algebra, one year of geometry, and one higher-level math course)
  • three years of social studies (history, anthropology, economics, geography, government, political science, psychology, or sociology)
  • two years of science (biology, chemistry, physics, or earth science)
  • two years of a single foreign language

If you are lacking in one of these areas, it does not mean your application will not be considered. However, a less rigorous curriculum could put you at a disadvantage.

MSU encourages students to take honors, Advanced Placement, and International Baccalaureate courses when possible. It is preferable for students to fill course schedules with a majority of core academic courses each marking period, including four each semester during their senior year.

Review MSU's College Planning Guide PDF*

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