4 Tips for Choosing High School Classes If You Want to Go to UT Austin

If your student bleeds burnt orange, it’s never too early to start thinking ahead academically and strategizing course selections. The ideal course load not only fulfills graduation requirements but also should reflect the intersection of your student’s academic abilities and enjoyment of the subject matter. 

Choosing the right class schedule can be stressful.

The team at College MatchPoint can provide personalized guidance to help you and your student make
informed decisions about courses that align with their college goals.


Schedule a meeting with one of our experts and get answers to your questions.


When choosing high school classes, remember these tips to ensure smooth sailing during the school year. 


Advancement in Rigor 


High schools are offering an increasing variety of Advanced Placement and honors-level courses. If your student is trying to decide between an advanced or grade-level course in the same subject, consider not only your student’s ability to earn an A in a higher-level class but also their enjoyment of the subject matter. 


Takeaway: It’s always great to challenge yourself academically, but be sure your student is up for it! 


Explore Electives 


Advanced classes aren’t the only way to demonstrate intellectual ability and curiosity. When choosing classes, explore your school’s complete offering of electives. Electives, courses outside the required curriculum, can be a chance to learn a new subject or skill or spend structured time for creative pursuits.


Takeaway: Encourage your student to explore their interests through appealing elective coursework. Just remember to never neglect your core classes for the sake of an elective. 


Bolster Fit-to-Major 


If your student has a general idea of what they want to study in college, think about classes that demonstrate investment and interest in that area of study. For example, if your student loves biology and is interested in the health professions, they might look into Physiology or Kinesiology. If your student is undecided or still exploring, use any space in their academic schedule to explore new academic interests like computer science, visual arts, or entrepreneurship. 


Takeaway: UT Austin wants to see that students have built experience in their intended major.


Check your Prerequisites


Some programs at UT Austin require applicants to successfully complete pre-designated high school courses to be considered for admission. For example, students interested in studying at the McCombs School of Business should be sure to take Calculus by senior year. Students hoping for entrance into the rigorous Plan II Honors major should demonstrate intellectual curiosity and college readiness through a slate of honors and AP classes. 


Takeaway: Check prerequisites to certain majors and programs so you can plan your high school classes accordingly. 



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