I am a junior planning on majoring in Physics. Next year, my schedule has two math classes and one science class with a local college. Does it make sense to take a fourth year of social studies (probably AP) or AP Chem with my high school? I know most colleges say 3 years of S.S., so does it matter if I have a fourth? I would be looking at Caltech, MIT, and other selective science/engineering colleges.
Selective colleges including MIT and Caltech want to see 4 years of all 5 core subjects (English, math, science, social science, and language). Probably one of the quickest ways to be eliminated from serious contention at MIT and Caltech is to assume that a strong math/science background will make up for weaker courses/grades/scores elsewhere.
Actually, MIT and Caltech do not specify four years of social studies or foreign language:
http://mitadmissions.org/apply/prepare/highschool
https://www.admissions.caltech.edu/content/how-apply-first-year-applicant
Both do require significant humanities and social studies course work in college, though.
However, if you want to meet the requirements and recommendations for a wide selection of highly selective colleges, including more generalized schools with strong engineering and science majors, it is best to complete the following in high school:
- English: 4 years
- Math: to calculus if placed at least a year ahead in 8th/9th grade; otherwise to precalculus
- History and social studies: at least 3 years; 4 is often preferred
- Science: at least 3 years including biology, chemistry, and physics; an additional more advanced course may be favorable if you indicate majoring in engineering or science
- Foreign language: at least to level 3; level 4 or AP level is often preferred
- Visual and performing art: often at least a year is preferred (required by some)
Of course, beyond the above, you can take additional courses in whichever area is of your interest.