According to numerous resources, the number one factor in determining college admissions is the academic transcript. The transcript is a permanent, official record that contains final grades from 9th thru 12th grade. When you apply to college in the fall of your senior year, colleges will receive a transcript that will reflect final grades from 9th thru 11th grade. Upon graduation from Notre Dame colleges will receive a final transcript reflecting your entire high school career. It is evident just how important your grades are to college and universities. However, in addition to your grades, college admission counselors also consider the type of courses you take during high school. Here are some tips to assist you in course selection!

• Create a tentative four year plan keeping in mind that you should take challenging courses that maximize your potential. 4- Year Plan Worksheet
• ***Advanced Placement Courses and Honors Courses have prerequisites. Plan ahead and review the course requirements for upper-level courses while selecting courses. Talk to your counselor and see the course description booklet for more information.
• Take challenging courses and maximize your “core courses”. “Core courses” refer to English, Math, Science, Social Studies, and Language.
• Review the Course Description Handbook to learn more about all courses and Notre Dame’s graduation requirements.
• Stay balanced! It is important to know your limits and perform well in your courses!

National Association for College Admission Counseling - The Balancing Act: Choosing High School Courses for College Success

Click here to download the Notre Dame Curriculum Guide.