4 years of the same language if I'm already bilingual? Can I add a third language?

Applying to College
1

Hi! I am a junior in HS, looking to apply to schools in CA. I have been enrolled in a Spanish language immersion program in my school district since Kindergarten. I speak, read and write Spanish fluently. I took Spanish 4 my freshman year and IB Spanish my sophomore year of HS. I am semi-fluent in French and would like to switch my language from Spanish to French for my Junior and Senior year.

Will this have a negative impact on my college applications? My HS guidance counselor insists that I need 4 years of the same language to apply to competitive schools. My parents are encouraging me to take French. My goal is to go pre-med with a focus on Global Health. I am 15. I have traveled to 11 countries and am a dual citizen so language is an important part of my life. Thanks for any input and advice!

2

For California public university purposes, you have achieved year 4+ in Spanish. Level completed is what matters for California public universities.

Many other schools may see it similarly, but a few supposedly want to see more than two years of actual courses. If you have topped out Spanish, taking French is perfectly fine, particularly if your existing ability allows you to start higher than French 1 so that you can reach French 3 or higher.

3

You’ve already completed more spanish coursework than most people who have four years in high school as well as completing through Spanish 4. What is the highest level of spanish at your high school? Take French. I can’t imagine this would be a problem, even at top universities.