The admissions standards for the state universities and the University of Massachusetts emphasize strong academic preparation while in high school. These standards represent minimum requirements; meeting them does not guarantee admission, since college officials consider a wide range of factors in admissions decisions.

It is recommended that students pursue a challenging course of study in preparation for post-secondary education. This includes four years of English, math, science, and history as well as 3–5 years of a foreign language. For specific information about the requirements associated with the college or university of interest, please refer to the college/university website for more details. Students work with their school counselor over four years to create a post-secondary plan that is appropriate for them. Students planning to attend one of the state universities should be attuned to the continuing discussion about requirements for particular schools.  If you have questions or concerns, do not hesitate to discuss them with your school counselor.

The admissions standards for freshmen applicants to the state universities and the University of Massachusetts have several components:

• Fulfillment of all requirements for the high school diploma or its equivalent; 
• 17 required academic courses (see below); and
• A minimum required grade point average (GPA) earned in college preparatory courses completed at the time of application.