California A-G Requirements Summary

What Are A-G Requirements?

• Definition: Specific courses high school students must complete to be eligible to apply to public universities in California
• Important distinction: A-G requirements may overlap with high school graduation requirements but are NOT the same thing
• Key point: Students must ensure they meet BOTH A-G requirements AND high school graduation requirements

Alternative Ways to Meet Requirements

• AP exam scores can fulfill certain A-G requirements
• College courses can substitute for high school courses
• These alternatives provide flexibility for students who may have missed traditional coursework

The Seven A-G Course Categories

A - History/Social Science

• Requirement: 2 years required

B - English

• Requirement: 4 years required

C - Mathematics

• Requirement: 3 years required

D - Laboratory Science

• Requirement: 2 years required
• Recommendation: 3 years recommended

E - Language Other Than English

• Requirement: 2 years required
• Recommendation: 3 years recommended

F - Visual and Performing Arts

• Requirement: 1 year required

G - College Preparatory Elective

• Requirement: 1 year required

Key Takeaways for Students and Families

• Planning is crucial: Start tracking A-G requirements early in high school
• Don't assume: High school graduation requirements alone may not be sufficient for UC/CSU eligibility
• Flexibility exists: Multiple pathways (traditional courses, AP exams, college classes) can fulfill requirements
• Exceed minimums when possible: Several categories have higher recommendations than requirements, which can strengthen college applications

This framework ensures California students are academically prepared for university-level coursework while providing multiple pathways to meet eligibility standards.