We’ve seen students lighten their academic load senior year because they erroneously think it doesn’t matter to colleges—definitely not advisable. Colleges want to see the “most recent you,” academically speaking, so it is important that you continue to demonstrate your readiness for the rigors of college all the way through high school. That means— take an academic load consistent with the rest of your transcript. It’s important that you fill that senior year with academically challenging classes that pique your interest.
Senior year matters! Students are often under the impression that because UC and CSU decisions are based on 10th and 11th grade classes, their 12th grade curriculum & performance is insignificant. Every single university will ask you to list your senior year classes on applications, and they consider your rigor heavily, so 12th grade is a year to keep your schedule robust. Many schools will then ask for fall semester grades to use in consideration while admissions decisions are made—so keeping your grades up during 12th grade matters too!
Call us if you need customized help with your high school curriculum (818) 207-0263 or email us- navigatio@navcc.net.
Community colleges can provide more of a variety of classes during the summer prior to senior year (or any year), so if you feel you need more rigor, that could be an option. Also, there is always the possibility of taking a community college class during senior year if your schedule allows for it. One important caveat—your high school needs to approve any community college class in advance, so you can get classes put on your HS transcript.
Finally, it is critical that you continue to perform academically all the way until graduation. Colleges can and will rescind offers of admission on occasion –especially if they see D’s or F’s on the final transcript. It’s important to always assume your college will care about your 12th grade performance and continue to be the student you have always been!
