Colorado Academic Preparation

Build a strong academic foundation for Colorado college success with comprehensive course planning, test preparation, and enrichment strategies.

High School Core Requirements

Colorado universities expect students to complete specific core academic requirements for admission consideration.

4 years

English

Literature, composition, speech, and language arts

Recommendations:

Advanced Placement Literature
Advanced Placement Language
Dual enrollment courses
Strong writing portfolio

4 years

Mathematics

Algebra, geometry, advanced algebra, and pre-calculus/calculus

Recommendations:

Calculus (AP or dual enrollment)
Statistics
Advanced math courses
STEM pathway completion

3-4 years

Science

Biology, chemistry, physics, and earth/space sciences

Recommendations:

AP Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
Environmental Science
Laboratory experience
Research projects

3-4 years

Social Studies

World history, U.S. history, government, geography

Recommendations:

AP History courses
Government/Economics
Psychology
International relations

2-4 years

World Languages

Two or more years of the same foreign language

Recommendations:

Three or more years
AP Language courses
Study abroad programs
Language immersion

1-2 years

Arts

Visual arts, music, theatre, or other creative disciplines

Recommendations:

Portfolio development
Performance experience
AP Art courses
Community involvement

Standardized Test Preparation

SAT

Standardized college admission test covering math, reading, and writing

Sections:

Math
Evidence-Based Reading
Writing and Language

Preparation Tips:

Take practice tests
Focus on weak areas
Consider test prep courses
Take multiple times if needed

ACT

Alternative standardized test with English, math, reading, and science

Sections:

English
Mathematics
Reading
Science
Optional Writing

Preparation Tips:

Time management is crucial
Science reasoning practice
Take both SAT and ACT to see which fits better

AP Exams

Advanced Placement exams for college credit and advanced standing

Sections:

Subject-specific content
College-level rigor
Potential college credit

Preparation Tips:

Take AP courses seriously
Use AP study guides
Consider exam costs vs. college credit value

Academic Enrichment Opportunities

Go beyond minimum requirements with enrichment activities that demonstrate academic excellence and passion for learning.

Academic Enrichment

Dual enrollment at community colleges
Summer academic programs
Research projects with mentors
Academic competitions and clubs

STEM Focus

Science fair participation
Engineering design challenges
Math competitions
Coding and robotics clubs

Liberal Arts

Debate and speech teams
Model UN or student government
Creative writing contests
Foreign language clubs

Leadership & Service

Student government positions
Community service projects
Volunteer work
Leadership development programs

Colorado-Specific Academic Opportunities

Environmental Science

Take advantage of Colorado's natural laboratory for environmental and earth science studies.

STEM Programs

Participate in Colorado's strong STEM initiatives and engineering programs.

Dual Enrollment

Earn college credit through partnerships with Colorado colleges and universities.

Academic Planning Success Tips

Do This

Challenge yourself with rigorous courses
Maintain consistent grades throughout high school
Seek help when struggling with coursework
Build relationships with teachers for recommendations

Avoid This

Taking easy courses to boost GPA
Procrastinating on important assignments
Ignoring core subject requirements
Focusing only on grades without learning

Continue Your Colorado College Planning Journey

Next, explore the vibrant campus life and unique experiences at Colorado universities.

Next: Campus Life & Experience Back to Colorado Guide