What are the main differences between 2-year and 4-year institutions?
Four-Year Institutions: Most 4-year institutions have more rigorous admissions requirements than a 2-year institution. Four- year colleges set a minimum standard for both the GPA and the standardized test scores that must be achieved by the student to gain admission. Four- year institutions generally have pre-requisites (courses you are required to take in advance of admission). Two-year Institutions: Admission is generally easier to 2-year institutions, generally there are no set standard minimums admission requirements, except high school graduation or GED diploma. Some colleges may require proof of citizenship, residency and proof of English proficiency. Technical programs are offered that prepare you for immediate entry into the job market. In addition, many of these colleges offer general education programs that are equivalent of the first two years of a bachelor’s degree program. If you are unsure about the major you wish to study, this is a good place to start.
