Before You Approve Next Year’s High School Schedule—Read This
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High school course selection can feel like an administrative task—but it’s actually a strategic one. And most families don’t realize which decisions matter most until it’s too late to change them.
When parents think about preparing for college, the focus often falls on grades, test scores, and applications. But one of the most important—and most overlooked—drivers of college readiness happens much earlier: the courses a student takes in high school.
The classes chosen in 9th, 10th, 11th and even 12th grade don’t just fill a schedule. They shape academic preparation, college eligibility, admissions competitiveness, and even future options. Thoughtful planning expands opportunity. Poorly planned choices can quietly limit it.
Below are several key reasons course selection matters—and how parents can help guide smart decisions.
- Colleges Look at Course Rigor, Not Just GPA
Admissions officers review students in context. That means they evaluate what courses a student took, not just the grades earned. A high GPA in less challenging classes is viewed differently than strong performance in rigorous ones.
Most colleges expect students to take appropriately challenging courses in core subjects such as:
- English
- Math
- Science
- Social Studies
- World Language
This doesn’t mean every student must take every honors or AP class available. It does mean showing academic growth and a willingness to challenge oneself over time. And for students entering 12th grade, this is NOT the time to take it easy! All colleges will see which classes you take senior year, and most colleges will see the grades in those classes before making admissions decisions.
- Course Choices Affect College Eligibility
Many colleges—especially public universities—have specific high school course requirements for admission, often including:
- Four years of math
- Two to three lab sciences
- More than two years of world language
- College-preparatory electives
If these requirements aren’t met, students can become ineligible for certain colleges regardless of GPA or test scores. These issues often surface late—sometimes senior year—when options are limited.
Early planning keeps doors open.
- Courses Should Align With Goals
Course selection should reflect both a student’s strengths and their emerging interests.
For example:
- Students interested in STEM fields should follow a strong math and science progression.
- Students considering selective liberal arts colleges may benefit from advanced writing, reading, and language coursework.
- Students who are undecided still benefit from a balanced, college-preparatory curriculum that preserves flexibility.
The goal is intentionality. A well-planned transcript tells a clear story about preparation and readiness.
- Balance Matters
More rigor isn’t always better. Overloading a student with advanced courses without considering workload, learning style, or outside commitments can lead to burnout or declining performance.
Colleges value students who succeed in challenging environments—not those who overwhelm themselves. A strong schedule stretches a student while remaining manageable.
Helpful questions for parents:
- Is this workload realistic?
- Does it allow time for activities, rest, and well-being?
- Is the student prepared for this level of challenge?
- Course Planning Is a Multi-Year Process
One of the biggest mistakes families make is treating course selection as a year-by-year task. In reality, it’s a four-year progression.
Early decisions—such as math placement or when a student begins world language—can shape what’s possible later. Planning ahead helps families:
- Avoid last-minute gaps
- Make informed adjustments
- Reduce stress during junior and senior year
Bonus Consideration: Advanced Math Matters
Many colleges—especially for STEM, economics, and business-related programs—now expect to see AP Calculus (or an equivalent) on a student’s transcript. It is often viewed as the upper benchmark of high school math rigor.
Not taking it doesn’t disqualify a student, but for certain colleges and programs it can make an applicant appear less competitive, even with strong grades. Understanding this expectation early allows families to plan appropriately.
I recall several years ago a student (let’s call him Jake) who was extremely bright and motivated. Back in middle school his mother did not accelerate him into the advanced math track. As a result, when I met Jake in 10th grade he was not on schedule to complete Calculus before high school graduation. Since Jake was seeking entry to an elite university, this presented as a problem. So, during the summer between 10th and 11th grade he enrolled in Algebra 2 which would position him for pre-calc in 11th grade and AP Calculus in 12th. Jake’s strong performance in rigorous classes led him to Northwestern University, where he is scheduled to graduate this spring. Perhaps Jake may not have gained admission to such a highly selective university had his curriculum been different.
Final Thought
High school course selection isn’t about chasing prestige or perfection. It’s about preparation, access, and choice.
When students take the right courses for their goals, abilities, and interests, they preserve more options—academically, financially, and personally. Parents play a critical role by staying informed, asking the right questions, and encouraging thoughtful planning.
If you have questions about course selection—or any aspect of college admissions or financial aid—we’re here to help start the conversation.
