A-G Approved Courses
A-G approved courses form the academic foundation that California students need to qualify for admission to University of California and California State University campuses. These seven subject areas ensure students develop comprehensive knowledge and skills essential for college success while demonstrating readiness for university-level coursework.
Understanding the Importance of A-G Subject Requirements
These courses represent California’s gold standard for college preparation, establishing minimum academic competencies across diverse disciplines.
Key Benefits for UC/CSU Admission Requirements
Completing A-G subjects signals to admissions officers that high school students possess academic preparation necessary for university success. Students who fulfill these eligibility requirements see significantly higher acceptance rates compared to those missing even one category, as course completion demonstrates commitment to rigorous coursework.
Developing Essential College-Ready Skills
A-G courses cultivate critical thinking through analytical class assignments and research projects across multiple disciplines. Students develop strong written and verbal communication skills while learning to collaborate with peers through group projects and presentations.
CP World History/Social Science (A)
This category requires two years of history courses, including CP world history, US government CP, and civics.
Recommended Course Progression
Most high school students begin with CP World History in tenth grade, followed by US History in eleventh grade. Schools typically offer US Government CP and Economics CP Psychology as semester courses during senior year, though some provide yearlong integrated social studies options.
Insights for Success in This Category
Create timeline charts and flashcards to memorize important dates and events. Balance heavy reading loads by scheduling regular study sessions and connecting historical events to current issues for deeper understanding.
Common Core English (B)
Four years of Common Core English courses are mandatory, emphasizing composition, literature, and critical reading skills.
Core Reading and Writing Skills
Strong essay-writing abilities develop through regular practice with argumentative, analytical, and creative class assignments. Reading comprehension improves as high school students analyze diverse literary works, from classical texts to contemporary pieces.
Honors and Advanced Options
AP Common Core English Language focuses on rhetorical analysis and non-fiction writing, while AP Literature emphasizes literary criticism. Honors Common Core English courses demonstrate academic rigor and significantly strengthen college applications through weighted grades benefits.
C Mathematics (C)
High school students must complete three years of C mathematics, though four years are strongly recommended for competitive applications.
Foundational Algebra to Advanced Calculus
The typical progression starts with Algebra I, advances through CP Common Core Geometry and Algebra II, then continues to Pre-Calculus. Students aiming for STEM fields often complete AP Calculus AB or BC during senior year.
If You Struggle with C Mathematics
Seek tutoring through school programs or online platforms to address specific concept gaps early. Summer bridge courses and credit-recovery programs offer opportunities to strengthen foundational skills before advancing to higher-level C mathematics.
Laboratory Science (D)
Two years of laboratory science courses provide hands-on experience with scientific inquiry and experimentation.
Balancing CP Biology, Chemistry, and CP Physics
Most students take CP Biology first, followed by Chemistry, then CP Physics for a well-rounded science foundation. Laboratory components in each CP physical science course emphasize experimental design, data collection, and scientific reasoning through hands-on investigations.
CP Physical Science Course Rigor and Lab Requirements
Lab reports typically constitute significant portions of CP physical science grades, requiring detailed documentation of procedures and results. Success requires careful attention to experimental protocols, accurate data recording, and thorough analysis in written reports.
Foreign Language Other Than English (E)
Two years of the same foreign language are required, with three years recommended for competitive applicants.
Popular Language Options and Sequences
Spanish, French, and Mandarin remain popular choices, while American Sign Language increasingly fulfills this requirement. High school students progress through numbered levels, building vocabulary, grammar, and conversational skills toward functional fluency.
Increasing Cultural Competence
Foreign language study develops global perspectives by exploring diverse cultures, traditions, and worldviews through authentic materials. Universities value multilingual California students who navigate increasingly interconnected academic and professional environments with cultural sensitivity.
F Visual & Performing Arts (F)
One year of visual and performing arts courses encourages creative expression and artistic appreciation.
Theater CP Visual Arts Course Options (Theater, Music, F Visual Arts)
Yearlong courses like Concert Band, Drama, or Theater CP Visual Arts typically fulfill this requirement completely. Some schools offer semester-long F visual arts options or online digital visual arts courses for students with scheduling conflicts.
How Visual and Performing Arts Contribute to Your Resume
Arts participation develops creativity, teamwork, and public presentation skills valuable in any CP careers field. Leadership roles in productions, exhibitions, or performances demonstrate initiative and organizational abilities to college admissions committees.
College Prep Elective (G)
One additional year from any A-G category allows high school students to explore specialized interests beyond minimum subject requirements.
Expanding Your Special Interests
Popular college prep elective choices include CP Psychology, Sociology, Economics CP Psychology, Computer Science, and additional arts or language courses. Students should select courses aligning with intended college majors or CP careers interests to demonstrate focused academic exploration.
Choosing High-Value Electives
Strategic elective selection can distinguish applications by showing depth in specific academic areas or interdisciplinary thinking. Balance personal curiosity with courses that complement your overall academic narrative and strengthen your college application profile.
Honors, AP, and IB Within the A-G Curriculum Framework
Advanced A-G approved courses within A-G categories demonstrate willingness to challenge yourself academically beyond standard subject requirements.
Weighted Grades and College Readiness
Honors and AP courses typically add extra grade points, with A grades earning 5.0 instead of 4.0. This weighted system rewards high school students who pursue rigorous coursework while preparing them for college-level academic expectations.
How to Decide Which Advanced A-G Courses to Take
Consider your academic strengths and time management abilities when selecting advanced A-G approved courses each semester. Consult with counselors and current teachers who understand your capabilities to create challenging but manageable course schedules.
Online A-G Approved Options and Enrollment
UC approved online programs offer flexibility for students needing alternative ways to successfully complete A-G subject requirements.
Verifying Accreditation and Transferability
Check the UC Doorways approved course list to confirm any online course provider maintains current A-G approved status. Contact your high school counselor to verify that credits transfer and count toward graduation requirements.
Enrolling as a Full-Time or Part-Time Student
Begin registration by submitting transcripts and completing placement assessments required by the online program provider. Note enrollment deadlines, technology requirements, and whether courses follow semester or quarter schedules for proper planning.
