High School Course Planning

Do you have a copy of your school’s curriculum guide? It’s a helpful document that lists all available classes, class descriptions, graduation requirements, prerequisites, and more. You can usually find it on your school’s website or ask your counseling office for a copy.

Once you have it, use the guide to create an academic plan. Consider your goals and interests. Do you love art? Plan to take electives in the art department. Do you excel in science? Map out when you’ll take your core science classes, and make sure to take the highest-level math classes you can manage. Taking charge of your academic journey will help make your high school experience more meaningful.

Revisit your academic plan each year to make updates. For example, if you found Honors English manageable in Grade 11, you might challenge yourself with AP English in Grade 12.

Advanced Courses

High school is a great time to challenge yourself with advanced classes like Honors, AP (Advanced Placement), or IB (International Baccalaureate). These courses demonstrate academic rigor and strong performance, which can earn you college credit.

Admissions officers at many universities look for students who challenge themselves appropriately. If you plan to apply to highly selective colleges, research the typical academic profiles of admitted students and ensure your coursework meets their expectations.

Grade Point Average (GPA)

Your GPA is one of the most important factors in university admissions. It represents the average of all your high school grades, but the calculation can vary by university and country. Many schools in the US use unweighted and weighted GPA calculations.

• Unweighted GPA: Each grade is assigned a point value (A = 4, B = 3, etc.), and the total is divided by the number of grades.
• Weighted GPA: Some schools add extra points for AP, IB, or Honors classes (e.g., an A in an AP class = 5.0).

Universities may also calculate GPAs differently. Some include only academic courses, while others exclude grades from 9th grade or non-core subjects like P.E. Check with your counselor and target schools to understand their policies.

Are AP, IB, or Honors Courses Right for You?

Should you take advanced classes? It depends on your interests and abilities.

• Aptitude: Can you handle the workload without sacrificing other grades?
• Interest: Do you have a passion for the subject? Advanced courses in areas like science, music, or computer science can be a great way to demonstrate commitment.

While AP and IB classes can boost your GPA, colleges value the challenge more than the grade. A B in an AP course often impresses more than an A in a standard class because it shows you’re ready to tackle rigorous academics.

Advanced classes also help prepare you for college-level work and may save you time and money by earning you credit. Start by realistically assessing your strengths and interests, and then choose classes that align with your goals.

By thoughtfully planning your coursework and challenging yourself when appropriate, you’ll build a strong academic foundation to set you apart in college applications.