University Prerequisites by Program
A Complete Guide for OSSD Students
Choosing the right high school courses is one of the most important decisions you’ll make on your journey to university. Every Ontario university program has its own admission requirements, and many require specific Grade 11 and Grade 12 courses before you can be considered for admission.
Whether you’re planning to study Engineering, Business, Computer Science, Nursing, Health Sciences, or another field, understanding university prerequisite courses early can help you build a strong academic pathway and avoid delays in achieving your goals.
This guide explains how university prerequisites work, why they matter, and the courses commonly required for some of Ontario’s most popular university programs. You’ll also learn how Ontario International School’s Academic Advising Team can help you select the right courses and prepare for university admission with confidence.
Quick Answer
What are University Prerequisites Courses?
University prerequisite courses are specific high school courses that students must complete to be eligible for admission to a university program. Most Ontario universities require certain Grade 12 U or M courses, while some programs also recommend or expect related Grade 11 preparation.
For example:
- Engineering programs commonly require Advanced Functions, Calculus and Vectors, Chemistry, and Physics.
- Business programs often require Advanced Functions and English.
- Computer Science programs typically require Advanced Functions and Calculus and Vectors.
- Nursing and Health Sciences programs generally require English, Biology, Chemistry, and sometimes Mathematics.
Because admission requirements vary by university and program, students should always verify the requirements for the institutions they plan to apply to.
Key Takeaways
- University prerequisite courses are mandatory for admission to many Ontario university programs.
- Most prerequisites are Grade 12 University (U) or University/College (M) courses.
- Admission requirements vary by university and by program.
- Planning your course selections early gives you greater flexibility and helps avoid missing important prerequisites.
- Ontario International School provides personalized academic advising to help students choose courses that support their university and career goals.
On This Page
- What Are University Prerequisite Courses?
- Why Prerequisite Courses Matter
- University Prerequisites by Program
- How to Choose the Right Courses
- Common Course Planning Mistakes
- University Prerequisites Checklist
- Frequently Asked Questions
What Are University Prerequisite Courses?
University prerequisite courses are specific high school courses that students must successfully complete before they are eligible for admission to a particular university program.
These prerequisites are established by individual universities to ensure applicants have the academic knowledge and skills needed to succeed in their chosen field of study. For example, Engineering programs typically require advanced mathematics and science courses, while Business programs often require mathematics and English.
Completing an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) is an essential requirement for admission to most Ontario universities, but earning an OSSD alone does not guarantee admission to every program. Students must also complete the prerequisite courses required for the programs they wish to study.
Because admission requirements vary by university and program, it’s important to research your intended programs early and plan your high school courses accordingly.
Who Sets University Prerequisites?
Each university determines the admission requirements for its own programs.
Although many universities require similar prerequisite courses for the same field of study, there may be differences in:
- Required Grade 12 courses
- Minimum admission averages
- Supplementary applications
- Portfolios, auditions, or interviews
- Additional program-specific requirements
For this reason, students should always verify the latest admission requirements directly on the university’s official website before applying.
Official Resource:
Ontario Universities’ Info (OUInfo): https://www.ontariouniversitiesinfo.ca/
Why Do Prerequisite Courses Matter?
Prerequisite courses help universities determine whether students are academically prepared for the demands of a particular program.
For example:
- Engineering programs rely heavily on advanced mathematics, chemistry, and physics.
- Nursing and Health Sciences programs require a strong foundation in biology and chemistry.
- Computer Science programs typically expect advanced mathematics and may also recommend physics.
- Business programs often require advanced mathematics and strong communication skills developed through English courses.
Choosing the correct prerequisite courses not only helps you meet admission requirements but also prepares you for success in your first year of university.
When Should You Start Planning?
The best time to begin planning your university pathway is before selecting your Grade 11 and Grade 12 courses.
Many Grade 12 university preparation courses have Grade 11 prerequisites. Waiting until your final year of high school to think about university admission may limit your course options or require additional upgrading.
Planning ahead allows you to:
- Keep multiple university pathways open.
- Meet prerequisite requirements on time.
- Build a balanced academic schedule.
- Reduce unnecessary stress during Grade 12.
- Make informed decisions about your future education.
At Ontario International School, our Academic Advising Team works with students to develop personalized course plans that align with both OSSD graduation requirements and university admission goals.
Related Resource:
Compulsory & Elective Courses Explained
University Prerequisites by Program
Ontario universities offer hundreds of undergraduate programs, each with its own admission requirements. While many programs share similar prerequisite courses, the exact requirements can vary by university and faculty.
The examples below highlight the commonly required Grade 12 Ontario (U/M) courses for some of the most popular university programs. These examples are intended as a planning guide only. Students should always verify the latest admission requirements directly with the universities they plan to apply to.
Engineering
Engineering programs are among the most competitive in Ontario and require a strong background in mathematics and science.
Common Grade 12 Prerequisite Courses
- ENG4U – English
- MHF4U – Advanced Functions
- MCV4U – Calculus and Vectors
- SCH4U – Chemistry
- SPH4U – Physics
Many universities also consider your overall admission average and may require supplementary applications or interviews for certain engineering programs.
Ideal for students interested in:
- Civil Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Software Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Aerospace Engineering
Computer Science
Computer Science programs emphasize mathematical reasoning, programming, and problem-solving skills.
Common Grade 12 Prerequisite Courses
- ENG4U – English
- MHF4U – Advanced Functions
- MCV4U – Calculus and Vectors
Some universities also recommend or require:
- SPH4U – Physics
Ideal for students interested in:
- Software Development
- Artificial Intelligence
- Cybersecurity
- Data Science
- Game Development
Business and Commerce
Business programs require strong analytical and communication skills. Mathematics is commonly required, while Calculus may be recommended by some universities for highly competitive programs.
Common Grade 12 Prerequisite Courses
- ENG4U – English
- MHF4U – Advanced Functions
Some universities also recommend:
- MCV4U – Calculus and Vectors
Ideal for students interested in:
- Accounting
- Finance
- Marketing
- Human Resources
- International Business
- Entrepreneurship
Nursing
Nursing programs combine science, mathematics, and communication skills to prepare students for healthcare careers.
Common Grade 12 Prerequisite Courses
- ENG4U – English
- SBI4U – Biology
- SCH4U – Chemistry
- One Grade 12 U Mathematics course (requirements vary by university)
Some universities may also recommend additional science courses.
Health Sciences
Health Sciences programs prepare students for careers in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, rehabilitation sciences, and biomedical research.
Common Grade 12 Prerequisite Courses
- ENG4U – English
- SBI4U – Biology
- SCH4U – Chemistry
Many universities also require or recommend:
- MHF4U – Advanced Functions
Some programs may also require:
- SPH4U – Physics
Life Sciences
Life Sciences programs focus on biology, chemistry, genetics, ecology, and biomedical research.
Common Grade 12 Prerequisite Courses
- ENG4U – English
- SBI4U – Biology
- SCH4U – Chemistry
Some universities also require:
- MHF4U – Advanced Functions
Arts and Humanities
Arts and Humanities programs generally offer greater flexibility in course selection, although English remains an essential admission requirement.
Common Grade 12 Prerequisite Courses
- ENG4U – English
Additional recommended courses depend on the specific discipline and university.
Examples include:
- History
- Philosophy
- English Literature
- Languages
- Cultural Studies
Social Sciences
Social Science programs examine human behaviour, society, politics, economics, and psychology.
Common Grade 12 Prerequisite Courses
- ENG4U – English
Some universities may also recommend:
- MHF4U – Advanced Functions (particularly for Economics)
Education (Future Teachers)
Students planning to become teachers generally complete an undergraduate degree before applying to a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) program.
The prerequisite courses you’ll need depend on the undergraduate program you choose first.
Examples include:
- English
- Mathematics
- Science
- History
- Geography
- Languages
Planning your undergraduate pathway carefully is an important first step toward a teaching career.
A Quick Comparison
| Program | Common Grade 12 Prerequisites* |
|---|---|
| Engineering | ENG4U, MHF4U, MCV4U, SCH4U, SPH4U |
| Computer Science | ENG4U, MHF4U, MCV4U |
| Business | ENG4U, MHF4U |
| Nursing | ENG4U, SBI4U, SCH4U, one Grade 12 U Math |
| Health Sciences | ENG4U, SBI4U, SCH4U, MHF4U (often required or recommended) |
| Life Sciences | ENG4U, SBI4U, SCH4U, MHF4U (often required) |
| Arts & Humanities | ENG4U |
| Social Sciences | ENG4U |
*Important: These are common prerequisite courses for many Ontario university programs, but admission requirements vary by university and program. Always verify the latest requirements through the university’s official admissions website or Ontario Universities’ Info (OUInfo) before selecting your courses or submitting your application.
University Program Comparison
Choosing a university program often means comparing different prerequisite requirements. While every Ontario university sets its own admission criteria, many programs share similar Grade 12 course expectations.
The comparison below highlights the commonly required prerequisite courses for several popular fields of study. Use it as a quick reference while planning your Grade 11 and Grade 12 OSSD courses, and always confirm the latest requirements with the universities you’re considering.
How to Choose the Right Courses for Your University Goals
Selecting your Grade 11 and Grade 12 courses is about more than meeting graduation requirements—it’s about creating opportunities for your future.
The courses you choose today can influence which university programs you’re eligible to apply for tomorrow. Careful planning helps you meet prerequisite requirements, explore your interests, and keep multiple post-secondary pathways open.
Here are five strategies to help you make informed course selections.
Start with Your Career Interests
You don’t need to have your entire future planned, but having a general idea of your interests can make course selection much easier.
Ask yourself:
- Which subjects do I enjoy most?
- What careers interest me?
- Do I prefer science, business, technology, healthcare, the arts, or another field?
- Would I like to attend university, college, or explore another pathway?
Your answers can help guide your course selections while keeping your options open.
Research University Programs Early
Every university program has its own admission requirements.
Before selecting your Grade 11 or Grade 12 courses, spend time researching:
- Required prerequisite courses
- Recommended courses
- Minimum admission averages
- Supplementary application requirements
- Program competitiveness
Understanding these requirements early reduces the risk of discovering you’re missing an important prerequisite during your final year of high school.
Related Resource:
Applying to Ontario Universities Through OUAC
Keep Multiple Pathways Open
It’s perfectly normal for your interests to change during high school.
Whenever possible, choose courses that allow you to apply to more than one university program. Maintaining flexibility gives you more options if your career goals evolve.
For example, students considering Engineering, Computer Science, or Business often benefit from completing advanced mathematics courses, even if they haven’t made a final decision about their future program.
Choose Challenging Courses You Can Succeed In
Competitive university programs consider both your completed prerequisite courses and your academic performance.
Rather than selecting the most difficult schedule possible, choose courses that challenge you while allowing you to perform at your best.
Strong grades in the required prerequisite courses are often more important than taking additional courses that are not relevant to your university goals.
Work with an Academic Advisor
Planning your university pathway doesn’t have to be a process you navigate alone.
An Academic Advisor can help you:
- Understand university admission requirements.
- Select appropriate Grade 11 and Grade 12 courses.
- Review prerequisite requirements.
- Keep multiple university pathways available.
- Develop a personalized academic plan based on your interests and goals.
At Ontario International School, our Academic Advising Team works one-on-one with students to build individualized course plans that support both OSSD graduation requirements and future university admission.
Plan Today for Tomorrow’s Opportunities
The best university pathway is one that’s planned with intention.
By researching programs early, selecting appropriate prerequisite courses, and reviewing your academic progress regularly, you’ll be better prepared when it’s time to apply through OUAC.
Thoughtful planning today can expand your opportunities tomorrow and help you approach university applications with confidence.
Your University Prerequisite Pathway
Planning for university isn’t just about choosing courses—it’s about making a series of informed decisions that keep you on track toward your academic and career goals.
The pathway below illustrates the typical journey from exploring your interests to submitting your university application through the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC). While every student’s path is unique, following these key steps can help you stay organized and prepare for university admission with confidence.
Remember: Every university program has its own admission requirements. Researching your intended programs early and selecting the appropriate Grade 11 and Grade 12 courses can help you keep more post-secondary opportunities open and avoid unnecessary delays.
Common Mistakes Students Make When Choosing University Prerequisite Courses
Choosing university prerequisite courses can feel overwhelming, especially when admission requirements vary from one university to another. Many students unintentionally make course selection decisions that limit their future options or require additional courses later.
Fortunately, these mistakes can usually be avoided with early planning and informed academic guidance.
Waiting Until Grade 12 to Plan
One of the most common mistakes is delaying university planning until the final year of high school.
Many Grade 12 university preparation courses require students to complete specific Grade 11 prerequisite courses first. Waiting too long may limit your course options or make it difficult to complete all required prerequisites before graduation.
How to avoid it:
Begin exploring university programs and admission requirements during Grade 10 or early Grade 11. Early planning gives you greater flexibility and helps you stay on track.
Assuming All Universities Have the Same Requirements
Students often believe that every university requires the same prerequisite courses for a particular program. In reality, admission requirements can vary between institutions and even between similar programs.
For example, one university’s Health Sciences program may recommend Physics, while another may not. Business programs may also differ in their mathematics requirements.
How to avoid it:
Review the admission requirements for every university and program you’re considering before selecting your Grade 11 and Grade 12 courses.
Official Resource:
Ontario Universities’ Info (OUInfo)
Choosing Courses Without Considering Your Future Goals
Selecting courses based only on personal preference or what friends are taking can unintentionally close doors to future university opportunities.
For example, a student who decides not to take Advanced Functions or Chemistry may later discover those courses are required for their preferred university program.
How to avoid it:
Choose courses that align with both your current interests and your long-term academic goals. If you’re still undecided, select courses that keep multiple university pathways open whenever possible.
Ignoring Prerequisite Chains
Some Grade 12 courses cannot be taken unless you’ve successfully completed the required Grade 11 prerequisite course.
Missing one course can create a chain reaction that affects your university eligibility.
How to avoid it:
Plan your Grade 11 and Grade 12 course sequence together rather than choosing courses one semester at a time.
Focusing Only on Minimum Requirements
Meeting the minimum admission requirements doesn’t always make you a competitive applicant.
Many university programs receive more qualified applicants than available spaces. Successful applicants often exceed the minimum requirements through strong academic performance and well-planned course selections.
How to avoid it:
Aim for strong grades in your prerequisite courses and continue challenging yourself academically while maintaining a balanced workload.
Trying to Plan Everything Alone
Understanding university admission requirements, prerequisite courses, graduation requirements, and application timelines can be challenging, especially if you’re new to the Ontario education system.
Trying to manage everything independently can lead to unnecessary stress and missed opportunities.
How to avoid it:
Seek guidance from an Academic Advisor who can help you review admission requirements, select appropriate courses, and build a personalized academic plan based on your goals.
At Ontario International School, our Academic Advising Team works closely with students to ensure their course selections support both OSSD graduation requirements and future university admission.
Smart Course Planning Leads to More Opportunities
Choosing the right prerequisite courses is one of the most important investments you can make in your future.
By planning early, researching university requirements, and seeking personalized academic guidance, you can keep more opportunities open and approach the university application process with confidence.
The right decisions today can help you achieve your academic goals tomorrow.
Ready to Plan Your University Pathway?
Choosing the right prerequisite courses today can open more opportunities tomorrow.
Whether you're still exploring career options or already know which university program you want to pursue, our Academic Advising Team can help you build a personalized academic pathway that supports your goals.
During your Free Academic Assessment, we'll help you:
✓ Identify the prerequisite courses required for your chosen university program
✓ Review your academic progress and graduation requirements
✓ Recommend the right Grade 11 and Grade 12 OSSD courses
✓ Create a personalized pathway toward university admission
Get a Free Academic AssessmentSpeak with an Academic AdvisorRelated Resources
Online OSSD for International Students
OSSD Graduation Requirements
What Is PLAR? A Complete Guide for OSSD Students
Applying to Ontario Universities Through OUAC
How to Research Universities Using OUInfo
Compulsory & Elective Courses Explained
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
University prerequisite courses are specific high school courses that students must complete before they are eligible for admission to a particular university program. These requirements vary by university and program and are designed to ensure students have the academic preparation needed for success in their chosen field of study.
No. While many universities require similar prerequisite courses for programs such as Engineering, Business, or Nursing, admission requirements can vary between institutions and programs.
Always verify the latest admission requirements directly through the university you’re applying to or by visiting Ontario Universities’ Info (OUInfo).
Ideally, students should begin planning during Grade 10 or early Grade 11. Many Grade 12 university preparation courses have Grade 11 prerequisites, so planning early helps ensure you can complete all the required courses before graduation.
If you don’t complete a required prerequisite course, you may not be eligible for admission to certain university programs.
Depending on your situation, you may need to complete the missing course before applying or consider alternative programs that have different admission requirements.
Yes. Many students change their career interests during high school.
Choosing courses that keep multiple university pathways open can provide greater flexibility if your goals change later.
An Academic Advisor can help you understand which course combinations offer the widest range of future opportunities.
No.
Some programs, such as Engineering, Computer Science, and many Business programs, require Advanced Functions and may also require Calculus and Vectors.
Other programs may require only one mathematics course—or none at all—depending on the field of study.
Always check the admission requirements for your intended program.
Yes.
Ontario International School provides personalized academic advising to help students:
- Understand university admission requirements.
- Select appropriate Grade 11 and Grade 12 courses.
- Build a personalized academic pathway.
- Prepare for graduation and university admission.
- Stay on track toward their educational goals.
The most accurate and up-to-date admission requirements are published by each university.
Students can also use Ontario Universities’ Info (OUInfo) to compare programs, review prerequisite courses, and explore admission information for Ontario’s publicly funded universities.
No.
While completing the required prerequisite courses is essential, universities may also consider factors such as:
- Overall admission average
- Supplementary applications
- Portfolios
- Auditions
- Interviews
- Personal statements (for some programs)
Admission requirements vary depending on the university and program.
The best university pathway depends on your interests, strengths, career goals, and academic background.
If you’re unsure where to start, a personalized academic plan can help you understand your options and choose courses that keep future opportunities open.
Ontario International School’s Academic Advising Team can help you develop a pathway that aligns with your goals and prepares you for university success.
References
To ensure the information in this guide is accurate and up to date, we recommend consulting the following official resources: