A very strong curriculum during high school will enhance your success in college, because college courses build on the skills and knowledge you acquire in high school. Your senior year is especially important. We expect students to continue with academic coursework, including math and science, for all four years of high school. In addition, we expect that students maintain their strong academic performance through graduation. Please note that admission is competitive, so successful applicants typically exceed these expectations listed below.
| English - 4 years | Emphasis on writing, including instruction in reading and speaking skills and in literary understanding and appreciation. |
| Mathematics - 4 years | Elementary algebra, geometry, intermediate algebra (integrated math 1, 2 & 3). Examples of 4th year math include calculus (preferred), pre-calculus, analysis, integrated math 4. Learn more about mathematics requirements. |
| Science - 3 years | Including one year each of biological and physical science, and including a laboratory experience. Note: Biology and chemistry are expected for the College of Biological Sciences and the College of Science and Engineering, while physics is also expected for the College of Science and Engineering. |
| Social studies - 3 years | Including one year each of U.S. history and geography (or a course that includes a geography component such as world history, western civilization, or global studies) |
| Single second language - 2 years | If English is not your first language, you have already met this requirement. |
| Visual and/or performing arts - 1 year | Including instruction in the history and interpretation of the art form (e.g. theater arts, music, band, chorus, orchestra, drawing, painting, photography, graphic design, media production, theater production) |
Schedule Changes & Senior Year Performance
The University expects that students will successfully complete the senior year coursework they self-report at the time of application. Schedule changes of academic coursework during the senior year and/or the unsuccessful completion of senior year coursework may result in the cancellation of admission or a change to the college of admission. Students considering making schedule changes, or those who are concerned about their academic progress in any of their courses, must consult with their U of M admissions counselor (1-800-752-1000 or 612-625-2008).
Prior to enrolling at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, all confirmed students must graduate from high school and/or secondary school, or complete a GED, and provide an official test score (if you included an ACT, SAT or English proficiency score on your application) from the testing agency prior to the first day of fall semester. These official documents will be carefully reviewed against the Self-Reported Academic Record.
For international students, final secondary school documents may include exam results such as, but not limited to, IB, A-level, WAEC, HKDSE, SPM, CISCE/CBSE, and WAEC.
For more information on senior year performance, please visit Final High School Transcript and Senior Year Grades.