COURSES

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)

Student plans include only the Canadian subjects required for their University application. Upon completion of the program suggested by the academic consultant, students receive a Canadian High School diploma and an official transcript, in addition to the diploma from their local school.

Important Grade 12 OSSD Courses: (Simple Guide for Students)

In Canada, U/M codes refer to university-level courses for grade 12 students.
     U: University-level courses.
     M: Mixed courses that may include university-level content. 
When applying to university, Grade 12 “University level” courses (4U) are very important.

Below are the most common courses required for different university programs.

ENG4U: Grade 12 English

What is it? Advanced English focusing on essay writing, reading comprehension, and academic analysis.

Why is it important? This course is mandatory for almost all university programs in Canada.

Who needs it? All students planning to attend university.

MHF4U: Advanced Functions

What is it? A higher-level mathematics course that prepares students for university math.

Why is it important? It builds strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Who needs it? Students applying to: Business, Economics, Computer Science, Engineering, Most Science programs

MCV4U: Calculus and Vectors

What is it? An advanced math course introducing calculus and vectors.

Why is it important? Required for many competitive STEM programs.

Who needs it? Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Some business and economics programs

SBI4U: Biology

What is it? Advanced biology covering genetics, human systems, and molecular biology.

Who needs it? Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Health Sciences, Life Sciences, Biotechnology

SCH4U: Chemistry

What is it? Advanced chemistry including organic chemistry and chemical reactions.

Who needs it? Medicine, Pharmacy, Engineering, Health Sciences, Chemistry-related programs

SPH4U: Physics

What is it? Advanced physics covering motion, energy, electricity, and waves.

Who needs it? Engineering, Physics, Computer Engineering, Some science programs

Simple University Pathway Examples for Canadian Universities. Students should take 5 or 7 courses, depending on their University program applications. Our dedicated team will prepare the course list when you submit the Equivalent Credit Assessment form.

Student wants Medicine:

ENG4U + Biology + Chemistry + Advanced Math

Student wants Engineering:

ENG4U + Advanced Functions + Calculus + Physics + Chemistry

Student wants Business:

ENG4U + Advanced Functions (sometimes Calculus)