A-G Requirement
A-G
For incoming freshmen · UC & CSU
15 courses
to college.
The A-G subject requirements every first-year applicant must complete in high school to be eligible for the University of California and California State University.
University of California
3.0minimum A-G GPA
for California residents
for California residents
3.4 for nonresidents · weighted with up to 8 semesters of honors points
California State University
2.50minimum A-G GPA
for California residents
for California residents
3.00 for nonresidents · 2.00–2.49 may be reviewed with other factors
AHistory /
Social Science
Social Science
2YEARS
One year of world history, cultures & geography, plus one year of U.S. history — or a half-year of U.S. history and a half-year of civics / American government.
BEnglish
4YEARS
Four years of college-prep English composition and literature — reading, writing and discussion every year, senior year included.
CMathematics
3YEARS
Algebra I / Math I, Geometry / Math II, and Algebra II / Math III — or an equivalent integrated sequence.
UC recommends a 4th year, such as precalculus, calculus or statistics.
DLaboratory
Science
Science
2YEARS
Two years of lab science covering two of biology, chemistry or physics. UC recommends a third year.
CSU requires one biological and one physical science year specifically.
ELanguage Other
Than English
Than English
2YEARS
Two years of the same language, through the second level of high school instruction. American Sign Language and classical languages count.
UC recommends a third year.
FVisual &
Performing Arts
Performing Arts
1YEAR
One yearlong course (or two semesters in the same discipline) in dance, music, theater or visual arts.
GCollege-Prep
Elective
Elective
1YEAR
One additional year beyond the A–F courses, chosen from an approved college-prep elective list.
Good to know before you plan
- A D does not count — even if it's enough to graduate high school. Retake it.
- Pass / Credit grades don't count toward A-G.
- Only courses on your school's approved A-G list count.
- UC: 11 of the 15 must be done by the start of 12th grade.
- Minimums are the floor — admitted UC students typically complete 45–54 semester courses.
required UC recommended