Ohio Academic Preparation

Prepare for Ohio college admission with strategic course planning, test preparation, and academic skill development in the Buckeye State.

Ohio High School Graduation Requirements

English
4 units

Literature, composition, speech, and language skills

Preparation Tips:

Strong writing skills
Literature analysis
Critical reading
Communication skills
Mathematics
4 units

Algebra I & II, Geometry, and additional advanced math

Preparation Tips:

Pre-calculus recommended
Statistics helpful
Strong algebra foundation
Problem-solving focus
Science
3 units

Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and lab experiences

Preparation Tips:

Lab science courses
STEM preparation
Research projects
Scientific method
Social Studies
3 units

History, government, geography, and social sciences

Preparation Tips:

Ohio history knowledge
Critical thinking
Research skills
Current events
Health
0.5 units

Health education and wellness concepts

Preparation Tips:

Health literacy
Wellness concepts
Personal health
Safety awareness
Arts/Electives
1 unit

Visual arts, music, theater, or career-technical education

Preparation Tips:

Creative expression
Technical skills
Career exploration
Portfolio development

Testing Requirements for Ohio Colleges

SAT

College Board's standardized test

Score Range: 400-1600

Test Sections:

• Reading
• Writing & Language
• Math
• Optional Essay

Ohio-Specific Tips:

Practice tests available
Khan Academy prep
Test multiple times
Ohio colleges test-flexible
ACT

Alternative standardized college admission test

Score Range: 1-36

Test Sections:

• English
• Math
• Reading
• Science
• Optional Writing

Ohio-Specific Tips:

Popular in Ohio
Science reasoning section
Faster paced
Many Ohio students prefer ACT
Ohio State Tests

State-required tests for graduation

Score Range: Pass/Fail

Test Sections:

• English I & II
• Algebra II
• Geometry
• Biology

Ohio-Specific Tips:

Required for graduation
College readiness indicator
Retake opportunities
Preparation available

Academic Success Strategies

Course Rigor

Taking challenging courses to prepare for college-level work

Action Steps:

Take AP/IB courses
Enroll in honors classes
Consider dual enrollment
Challenge yourself appropriately
Test Preparation

Strategic approach to standardized testing success

Action Steps:

Start prep early
Take practice tests
Consider prep courses
Utilize free resources
Academic Support

Building relationships and seeking help when needed

Action Steps:

Work with counselors
Seek tutoring help
Join study groups
Use school resources
Skill Building

Developing essential skills for college success

Action Steps:

Improve study habits
Develop time management
Practice critical thinking
Build research skills

Ready to Excel Academically in Ohio?

Use CollegeCompass to track your academic progress and optimize your preparation for Ohio colleges.

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