Choosing the Right (Rigorous!) Courses for Next Year

Course selection isn't just about picking classes that look interesting or fit neatly into your teen’s schedule. It’s a strategic decision that can directly impact their college admissions outcomes. The classes your teen takes in their junior and senior years carry the most weight—colleges want to see students who challenge themselves while maintaining strong grades.

If your teen is heading into their senior year, their course choices are even more critical. Admissions officers start by reviewing senior year courses first, then junior year grades, and work their way backward. That means your teen’s upcoming schedule needs to reflect both academic rigor and balance.

1. Take Appropriately Rigorous Courses

Colleges want students who push themselves academically, but that doesn’t mean every student should overload their schedule with AP, IB, or honors courses. The key is to take courses that are challenging but manageable—what we call “appropriately rigorous.”

• If your teen has been succeeding in honors courses, moving up to an AP or IB class may be a smart move.
• If they’ve struggled in certain subjects, forcing them into the most advanced level may backfire.
• The goal is for them to excel, not just survive.

2. Colleges Review Applications Backward—Senior Year Counts!

Many parents mistakenly believe that colleges only care about 9th-11th grade GPA, but the reality is different. Admissions officers start with senior year courses, checking if students are continuing to challenge themselves. A weak or easy senior schedule can raise red flags.

• A student who drops challenging courses in senior year may look like they’ve lost motivation.
• Colleges expect students to maintain or increase their rigor—dropping from honors to regular classes can be a red flag.
• A well-balanced schedule shows commitment and growth.

3. Maximize What Their School Offers

Your teen isn’t competing against students from other schools; they are competing within the context of what their school offers. If their high school provides AP, IB, or honors courses, colleges expect them to take advantage of these opportunities.

• If a school offers 10 AP courses and your teen takes none, that’s a missed opportunity.
• If their school has a limited number of advanced courses, that’s fine—colleges evaluate students based on what’s available.
• Dual enrollment and summer courses are great additions, but they shouldn’t replace taking rigorous courses at their school.

So, What’s the Best Course Strategy?

Here’s how you can help your teen make the best decisions:
✅ Encourage a balance of challenge and success—avoid course overload.
✅ Work with their school counselor to ensure they’re choosing the best possible schedule.
✅ Think strategically—admissions officers will notice their course choices!

Course selection is just one piece of the college admissions puzzle. If you want expert guidance to ensure your teen is making the right choices and building a competitive application, join The College Application Action Plan today.

We provide personalized support to help families navigate this process with confidence. Don’t leave it to chance—set your teen up for success.

Join The College Application Action Plan Now