Illinois Academic Preparation

Build a strong academic foundation for Illinois college success with comprehensive course planning, test preparation, and excellence strategies rooted in Midwest values.

Illinois High School Requirements & Recommendations

Illinois students should exceed minimum requirements while building competitive profiles for university admission and scholarship consideration.

4 years

English

Literature, composition, speech, and language arts with strong writing emphasis

Recommendations:

Advanced writing courses
AP Literature and Language
Speech and debate
Creative writing experience

4 years

Mathematics

Algebra I & II, geometry, and advanced study through calculus or statistics

Recommendations:

Pre-calculus or calculus
AP Statistics or Calculus
Strong problem-solving skills
STEM pathway completion

3+ years

Science

Biology, chemistry or physics, and additional lab sciences

Recommendations:

AP Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
Laboratory research
Science fair participation
Engineering courses

3+ years

Social Studies

U.S. history, world history, government, and additional social studies

Recommendations:

AP History courses
Psychology
Economics
Current events awareness

2+ years

World Languages

Two or more years of the same world language

Recommendations:

Three years preferred
AP Language courses
Cultural exchange
Communication skills

Various

Electives & Arts

Fine arts, career/technical education, and additional electives

Recommendations:

Career pathway courses
Arts portfolio
Technical skills
Leadership activities

Standardized Test Preparation

SAT

Widely accepted standardized test for college admissions in Illinois

Sections:

Math
Evidence-Based Reading
Writing and Language

Illinois Tips:

Target 1200+ for competitive schools
Take multiple times
Strong math preparation
Practice evidence-based questions

ACT

Popular in Midwest, accepted by all Illinois colleges

Sections:

English
Mathematics
Reading
Science
Optional Writing

Illinois Tips:

Target 27+ for competitive schools
Time management crucial
Science reasoning practice
Midwest preference

AP Exams

Advanced Placement exams for college credit and merit recognition

Sections:

Subject-specific content
College-level rigor
Potential college credit

Illinois Tips:

Take multiple AP courses
Score 3+ for college credit
STEM and humanities balance

Illinois Academic Advantages

STEM Excellence

Strong preparation for Illinois's renowned STEM programs

Engineering pathway programs
Computer science courses
Research internships
Science olympiad

Agricultural Science

Unique opportunities in agricultural and environmental sciences

FFA participation
Agricultural research
Environmental studies
Sustainability projects

Business Preparation

Strong foundation for business and economics programs

DECA participation
Entrepreneurship courses
Economics AP
Business internships

Illinois-Specific Academic Opportunities

Industry Partnerships

Access partnerships with Illinois manufacturing, agriculture, and technology companies.

Research Programs

Participate in research programs at top Illinois universities and institutions.

Dual Credit Programs

Earn college credit through extensive dual credit and dual enrollment programs.

Illinois Academic Success Tips

Do This for Success

Balance rigor with achievable academic goals
Build strong relationships with teachers and counselors
Participate in career pathway programs
Prepare thoroughly for ACT (preferred in Midwest)

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating the value of dual credit opportunities
Focusing only on academics without leadership development
Neglecting standardized test preparation
Missing application deadlines for merit scholarships

Continue Your Illinois College Planning Journey

Next, explore the vibrant campus life and traditions at Illinois universities.

Next: Campus Life & Experience Back to Illinois Guide