Course Selection Process

Course Selection and Availability

The course selection process for the upcoming academic year takes place in January and February. The York School is committed to supporting each student in designing a program that reflects their interests, goals, and pathways to success.

While every effort will be made to accommodate students’ preferred course selections, certain combinations may not be possible due to timetabling or scheduling constraints. In some instances, courses may not be offered if there is insufficient enrollment or staffing availability. Should this occur, students and families will be notified, and the School will work closely with them to identify suitable alternatives that maintain both academic integrity and student choice.

Course Selection Process

Grade 9 into Grade 10

As students transition from Grade 9 to Grade 10, it is important that courses are selected with future goals in mind. In particular, the Grade 10 language and math selections determine the pathway that students will follow in the IB Diploma Programme. The language selected in Grade 10 will continue through Grades 11 and 12, and the appropriate math pathway will also be established at this stage.

Before course selections are completed, students are asked to review “Grade 10 at The York School.” Notification will be provided when the Course Selection process opens, and the Course Selection Form will be available through each student’s YorkNet account (the link appears at the top right of the screen, highlighted in yellow). The form must include both the student’s and a parent/guardian’s signature before submission.

To help make informed decisions, please review the course descriptions available on this site. If you would like additional guidance, students and parents are encouraged to contact their counsellor and can email Ms. Warren at swarren@yorkschool.com to arrange an appointment.

Grade 10 into 11

As students transition from Grade 10 into Grade 11, course selections for the IB Diploma Programme begin, marking an important stage in shaping the final two years at The York School and preparing for post-secondary pathways. Notification will be provided when the Course Selection process opens, and the Course Selection Form will be available through each student’s YorkNet account (the link appears at the top right of the screen, highlighted in yellow). The form must include both the student’s and a parent/guardian’s signature before submission.

Before completing course selections, students are encouraged to carefully review the available options. Introductory course videos can be viewed in the linked slide deck, and detailed course descriptions are available on this site. Students should also consult the document Planning Your IB Courses for guidance on how course choices align with university programs and admission requirements.

When choosing courses, please note the following:

  • Your Group 2 Language will remain the same as the one you studied in Grade 10.

  • Students must select three Higher Level (HL) and three Standard Level (SL) courses.

  • You may take two courses in either Group 3 (Individuals and Societies) or Group 4 (Sciences) if you do not select a Group 6 (Arts) course.

  • Conversely, students selecting a Group 6 (Arts) course will choose one course from each of Groups 3 and 4.

IB Courses through the Personalized Pathway 

Students who prefer a more flexible approach to their academic program may choose to pursue IB Courses through our Personalized Pathway (IB PP). They are required to meet with their university counsellor to explore options, discuss goals and determine why this pathway is the right fit for them.

We encourage all students and families to meet with a counsellor to discuss course choices, post-secondary goals, and how to balance workload and interests. Meetings can be scheduled in person, via Google Meet, or by phone. To book an appointment, please contact Ms. Sally Warren at swarren@yorkschool.com or by phone at 416-926-1325 ext. 1117.