In order to be admitted to a college or university, it’s very common for prospective students to take placement tests to assess where they are in English, math, and reading, which are collectively known as basic skills. If a student’s level in one or more of the basic skills subjects is not at college level, he or she will need to take developmental classes in order to get up to college speed.
If you need to take developmental classes in one or more of the basic skills, you will be required to enroll in and complete those in your first semesters of your college career. Once you have successfully passed them, you will then be required to take college level math and English classes that are suitable for your major.
It is an excellent idea to take the college level classes in math and English immediately after completing the last developmental classes in those subjects. That way, the knowledge and skills are fresh in your mind and it increases your chances for success. Fluency in college level math and English are needed to take more advanced classes, whether they are listed as formal prerequisites or not. Some classes will even require you to have earned a C or better in college level math or English.
If you are struggling with developmental or college level basic skills classes, get tutoring and other support to pass the classes right away. You do not want to get close to graduating but still have a basic skills class preventing you from doing so. Avoid using retakes on developmental and college level basic skills classes if at all possible – make wise drop decisions if needed.
Other classes that are often included under basic skills are speech, critical thinking, and computer competency. If you complete all of your basic skills classes early in your college career, you will be better equipped to take on the challenges of more advanced coursework.
