College Preparatory Program

Helping Your Child Prepare for College

Studies show that parents remain the most influential figures in their children’s lives when it comes to making future decisions. If your child is considering college, here are some key points you should know:

College Preparatory Courses

To increase the likelihood of success in college, students should complete a strong college preparatory curriculum. Most colleges and universities require or recommend the following courses:

• English: 4 credits (emphasis on writing)

• Mathematics: 4 credits (including Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, and a senior-year math course)

• Social Studies: 3 credits

• Science: 3 credits (lab experience recommended)

• Foreign Language: 3 credits (4th year encouraged or 2 credits in two different languages)

• Fine Arts: 1 credit (art, music, and/or theater)

College Admission Conditions

Many Ohio universities place conditions on students who have not completed the minimum core preparatory courses. These conditions may include:

• Placement in remedial courses

• Delayed entry into regular freshman coursework

• Other university-determined requirements

Understanding Individual College Requirements

Each university has its own specific admission criteria. To ensure your child meets the necessary requirements, consult college catalogs and speak with their school counselor.

Avoiding Remedial Coursework

Students who do not meet core course requirements may be required to take remedial classes, which can add extra time and cost to their education. Completing a college preparatory program can help your child avoid these setbacks and start college on the right track.

Scholarships

Scholarships for college are available through parents’ workplaces, the Fairfield County Foundation, colleges, and internet sources.  Students and parents should regularly check the Guidance and Counseling page on the Lancaster High School web site at https://sites.google.com/lcsschools.net/lhscounselingwebsite/home.

The Fairfield County Foundation web site is www.fairfieldcountyfoundation.org.

The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) web site is www.fafsa.ed.gov.

Another excellent internet source for financial aid and scholarship information is Fastweb at www.fastweb.com.