Skills and competencies needed for success in a four-year college program are discussed, based on an assessment of the Nevada Joint Council on College Preparation. The Council advocates that high school students take a sound course of basic academic subjects to prepare for college. The minimum courses that are recommended are as follows: 4 years of English, 3 years of mathematics, 3 years of science, 4 years of social studies, 2 years of the same foreign language, 1 year of visual arts or performing arts, and computer education. For each subject area and subareas, information is provided on specific skills, competencies, and knowledge that students should acquire. In addition, general skills that are needed for college study are identified. Based on the recommendations of various national educational and professional associations, the following general abilities are outlined in detail: organizing, study, and research; reading; writing; speaking and listing; dealing with quantitative and spatial concepts; and reasoning and investigating. Finally, separate notes are provided to students, parents, local school districts, the state board of education, and the board of regents. (SW)