Course selection season is just around the corner, and now is the time to get clear on what you want next year to look like. Whatever grade you’re going into in the fall, the courses you choose play a major role in your academic success and your future post-secondary options. Here’s what to keep in mind as you start planning.
Course Planning in Early High School
In grades 9 and 10, course selection is your chance to explore interests and build the prerequisites you’ll need later. Thinking about business? Don’t skimp on those math classes. Curious about STEM? Make sure you’re staying on the right math and science paths. Being intentional early can even reduce your workload later. For instance, completing a course like Pre-Calculus 11 in the summer could create more flexibility in grade 12.
Course Planning in Grades 11 and 12
By the time you reach your senior years, strategic planning becomes essential. Now you’re choosing courses that directly influence admissions, your workload, and the number of usable courses you’ll have for applications. Some students take electives like Comparative Cultures 12 or Law Studies 12 in grade 11 to free up space in grade 12. Others plan ahead to make room for spares or work experience placements during their busiest year.
Prerequisite Courses
Many grade 12 classes require specific grade 11 prerequisites. If you’re hoping to take Chemistry 12, Physics 12, or Pre-Calculus 12, you’ll need the corresponding grade 11 courses first. The same applies across subjects, so double-check the pathways at your school to make sure you’re building a strong foundation for next year.
Admission Requirements
Your course choices can directly impact which university and college programs you can apply to. Different schools require different senior-level courses, so depending on your goals, you may need to choose Pre-Calculus over Foundations, Physics over Anatomy and Physiology, or a particular socials or language course. Selecting the right classes now helps keep more doors open later.
Usable vs. Non-Usable Admission Courses
Not all grade 12 courses count equally for admissions. Canadian post-secondary schools vary in which courses are considered usable when they calculate admission averages. As you plan your high school courses, make sure they not only meet graduation requirements but are also usable by the schools you plan to apply to.
If you need help with your individual course planning or have questions about the requirements for different universities and their programs, now is the perfect time to chat with one of our educational consultants. Contact us today to book in!
