Skip To Main Content

MN College Requirements

Minimum Preparation Requirements for MN Public Institutions

Below you will find the minimum high school preparation requirements for baccalaureate programs. University of Minnesota requirements apply to Twin Cities , Crookston, Morris, and Duluth campuses. Minnesotat State Colleges and Universities System requirements apply to Bemidji, Mankato, Moorhead, St. Cloud, Metropolitan State, Southwest (Marshall), and Winona.

University of Minnesota Requirements:

  • 4 years of English: Emphasis on writing, including reading and speaking instruction, as well as literary comprehension.
  • 4 years of mathematics: Including two years of algebra (one of which is intermediate or advanced Algebra), 1 year of Geometry, and a 4th year math course (integrated math, pre-calc, or calculus which is preferred). Students are encouraged to take a math or quantitative methodology course in their senior year that is considered to be the next course in their academic progression.
  • 3 years of science: Including one year each of a biological and a physical science, all with significant laboratory experience.  
  • 3 years of social studies: Including one year each of geography and U.S. history.
  • 2 years of a single second language: Not required if English is not your first language.
  • 1 year of visual or performing arts (theater, music, dance or media arts).

* Specific colleges (i.e. Carlson School of Management) may have additional requirements.

Minnesota State Requirements:

  • 4 years of English: Including writing, literature, and speech.
  • 3 years of mathematics: Including one year each of elementary algebra, geometry, and intermediate or advanced algebra. 
  • 3 years of science: Including one year each of biological and physical science, with signficant laboratory experience.
  • 3 years of social studies: 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).
  • 2 years of a single second language.
  • 1 year of visual and/or performing arts (theater, music, dance or media arts).

Colleges may admit some students who have not met these requirements. The method of meeting these preparation requirements after admission will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may require the student to take additional course work.

Further information is available on the Web:
University of Minnesota – www.umn.edu
Minnesota State Universities – www.minnstate.edu

Please note that the high school prep requirements listed are only for the University of Minnesota and Minnesota State systems. Requirements for all colleges and universities vary and can change. Confirm with the college of your choice for their high school prep requirements.