How to Plan Your Prerequisite Courses for College and University
Quick Summary: Planning Your Prerequisite Courses
- Prerequisite courses are required high school classes that determine your eligibility for college and university programs.
- Plan early—most prerequisites are taken in Grades 11–12, but adults and international students can upgrade or fast-track them online.
- At Ontario eSecondary School, you can complete prerequisites anytime, at your own pace, with full Ministry accreditation.
Prerequisite courses are the foundation for college and university admission in Ontario. The classes you choose in Grades 11 and 12—especially in math, science, and English—directly affect your eligibility for competitive programs. Missing even one requirement can set you back, which is why planning early is key. At Ontario eSecondary School, a Ministry-inspected Ontario online highschool in Brampton, you can complete prerequisites on your schedule while earning recognized OSSD credits.
What Are Prerequisite Courses in Canada and Why Do They Matter?
A prerequisite course is a subject you must complete before enrolling in another, usually more advanced, course. Universities and colleges rely on this system to ensure students are academically ready. For example, Advanced Functions (MHF4U) is required before Calculus and Vectors (MCV4U). Similarly, ENG4U is a standard requirement for admission across Ontario universities.
How to Fulfill Prerequisite Courses
Completing prerequisites doesn’t have to be complicated. Students typically meet requirements by taking the appropriate high school courses, but there are other pathways. Colleges may accept credit transfers, which recognize courses you’ve already completed at another institution, or Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR), which evaluates your existing knowledge and skills for credit. Adults returning to school can also upgrade missing requirements by retaking courses to meet admission standards.
Online options expand the possibilities. At OES High School, learners can start any day of the year, study at their own pace, and complete credits in as little as four weeks. This flexibility is ideal for students upgrading grades, international learners seeking OSSD recognition, or anyone who needs to fast-track prerequisite courses in Ontario to meet admission deadlines.
What Are the Most Common Prerequisite Courses for College and University Admission?
- ENG4U (English, Grade 12 University)
- MHF4U (Advanced Functions) and MCV4U (Calculus and Vectors)
- SBI4U (Biology) and SCH4U (Chemistry) for programs like nursing or medicine
- SPH4U (Physics) for engineering or science majors
Specialized tracks also exist. For example, nurse anesthetist prerequisite courses almost always require senior Biology and Chemistry, while business schools may expect math prerequisites tied to accounting and economics.
When Should You Take Prerequisites for University?
Deciding when to take prerequisites for university can make or break your post-secondary timeline. The best time to plan is in Grade 10, when course selections start shaping future options. Core prerequisites—like Functions, English, and the sciences—are usually completed in Grades 11 and 12.
OES offers flexible scheduling for students who discover too late that they’re missing a course. For example, if you’re applying to nursing programs but lack Grade 12 Chemistry, you can register online and complete it before OUAC or OCAS deadlines. This year-round accessibility also benefits adult and international learners who may be starting outside of the traditional September–June cycle.
What If You Didn’t Meet a Prerequisite? (Common Issues and Solutions)
Falling short on requirements doesn’t mean your academic journey ends. Adults who left high school early, homeschooled students missing ministry-approved credits, or international students unfamiliar with prerequisite course requirements often find themselves needing upgrades.
Solutions include:
- Taking the missing credit online at OES.
- Using PLAR assessments when eligible.
- Fast-tracking during summer to meet application deadlines.
The key is to act quickly. At OES, students can enroll any day, receive access within 24 hours, and connect with teachers who respond promptly—helping you stay on track without losing valuable time.
Sample Prerequisite Pathways for OSSD Students
Planning ahead is easier with examples. Here are some common Ontario pathways:
- Math Pathway: Functions (MCR3U) → Advanced Functions (MHF4U) → Calculus and Vectors (MCV4U)
- Science Pathway: Chemistry 11 (SCH3U) → Chemistry 12 (SCH4U); Biology 11 (SBI3U) → Biology 12 (SBI4U)
- English Pathway: (ENL1W) → (ENG2D) → (ENG3U) → (ENG4U)
- Business Pathway: Principles of Accounting (BAF3M) → Financial Accounting Principles (BAT4M) → International Business Fundamentals (BBB4M)
- Computer Science Pathway: Introduction to Computer Science (ICS3U) → Computer Science (ICS4U)
- Social Sciences Pathway: Introduction to Anthropology, Psychology, Sociology (HSP3U) → Challenge and Change in Society (HSB4U)
- Arts Pathway: Visual Arts (AVI3M) → Visual Arts (AVI4M)
Each builds toward university and college-level expectations. If you’re aiming for nursing, for instance, prerequisite courses for nursing nearly always include SBI4U and SCH4U.
Frequently Asked Questions About Prerequisite Courses
What is a prerequisite for a course?
It’s a required subject or qualification that must be completed before taking another course.
What are prerequisite courses in Canada / Ontario?
They’re typically senior high school credits (U/M level) like English, Math, and Science that universities and colleges use to set admission requirements.
How to choose prerequisite classes?
Check the admission requirements of your intended program, then plan backward. Guidance counsellors and OES academic advisors can help align your schedule.
How to fulfill prerequisites if you’re an adult or international student?
Options include online courses at accredited schools like OES, PLAR, or summer fast-track programs. See our FAQ for details.
Are there mandatory courses in college?
Yes, but they differ by program. Some programs also set high school prerequisites that must be met before you can begin.
Ready to Fast-Track Your Prerequisite Courses with OES?
Planning your education shouldn’t feel overwhelming. With OES, students can enroll anytime, study at their own pace, and get personalized support from certified Ontario teachers.
Book your 15-minute Academic Guidance Meeting today to review your goals, and explore courses to start building the pathway toward your dream program.
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