Grade 12 Pre-University

The Grade 12 Pre-University program offers Grade 11 graduates the opportunity to continue their education in a supportive community, combining a rigorous curriculum with hands-on learning and enrichment opportunities. Through a blended learning approach and ongoing guidance, the program helps students develop the skills and confidence needed for a smooth transition to post-secondary studies.

This program provides a pathway that balances core academic requirements with specialized courses, allowing students to tailor their learning to their interests and goals.

We encourage you to review the Grade 12 Pre-University program to see how it supports students in preparing for both academic and professional pursuits.

Curricular Pathways ›

Course Descriptions ›

Student Life ›

FAQs ›

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Program Overview

Continuing into Grade 12 at St. George’s allows students to earn the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) while completing their final year in a supportive, engaging, and enriching environment.

While there are many reasons to pursue the Grade 12 Pre-University program at St. George’s, here are some of the ways this program empowers students to reach their goals and prepare for success at universities in Canada, the USA, and around the world:

The St. George’s Experience

Inquiry-based, experiential, progressive education empowers students to learn through exploration, hands-on experiences, and critical thinking.

Personalized Learning

Education is tailored to individual skills, interests, and strengths, creating the conditions for students to thrive both academically and personally.

Trusted Diploma

Our graduates earn a highly respected and valuable Ontario Secondary School Diploma.

A Direct Pathway

A clear pathway to university, supported by strong academic guidance to help students reach their goals.

Designed for Enrichment

Integrates enrichment opportunities, offering students experiences that ensure they are fully prepared for post-secondary education and school life.

Curricular Pathways

In the Grade 12 Pre-University program, every student completes eight credits within a semester model: four courses in the first term and three in the second. Core requirements are paired with pathway-specific courses, allowing students to tailor their learning to their strengths and aspirations.

Students may choose from one of three distinct pathways—Science, Commerce, or Humanities—each designed to prepare them for post-secondary studies while maintaining the flexibility and breadth of a St. George’s education.

Science Pathway

Develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills through advanced courses, labs, and experiential learning that prepare you for university studies in science, technology, engineering, or health fields.

Students considering the Science pathway are advised to have an overall average of 85% in Grades 10 and 11 with specific focus on Math 426 and 506 (with Math 583 in some cases), English (Grades 10 and 11), ST and EST Science (Grade 10), and Chemistry and Physics (Grade 11).

Semester 1

English
Sociology - Understanding Social Change
Advanced Functions
Advanced Chemistry

Semester 2

Environment, Resources and Sustainability
Calculus
Advanced Physics or Advanced Biology*
Enriched English – Critical Literacy

*The Science option in this Semester may use a blended learning model, depending on student course selection.

Commerce Pathway

Explore business, economics, and entrepreneurship while gaining practical knowledge and critical thinking skills for future studies in commerce and related disciplines.

Students considering the Commerce pathway are advised to have an overall average of 85% in Grades 10 and 11, with specific focus on Math 426 and 506 (with Math 583 in some cases) and English (Grades 10 and 11).

Semester 1

English
Sociology - Understanding Social Change
Advanced Functions
Ethics, Social Responsibility and Leadership

Semester 2

Environment, Resources and Sustainability
Calculus
Analyzing Current Economic Issues
Enriched English – Critical Literacy

Humanities Pathway

Deepen your understanding of literature, history, philosophy, and the social sciences while building the communication and analytical skills essential for success in diverse university programs.

Students considering the Humanities pathway are advised to have an overall average of 80% in Grades 10 and 11, with specific focus on Social Sciences (Grades 10 and 11) and English (Grades 10 and 11).

Semester 1

English
Sociology - Understanding Social Change
Canadian and International Law
Ethics, Social Responsibility and Leadership

Semester 2

Environment, Resources and Sustainability
World History since the 15th Century
Analyzing Current Economic Issues
Enriched English – Critical Literacy

Course Descriptions

Each course in the Grade 12 Pre-University program combines rigorous theory with hands-on, experiential learning and reflective practice, helping students apply knowledge to real-world contexts. Explore the full course list and descriptions below.

Advanced Biology

This course provides students with the opportunity for in-depth study of the concepts and processes that occur in biological systems. Students will study theory and conduct investigations in the areas of biochemistry, metabolic processes, molecular genetics, homeostasis, and population dynamics. Emphasis will be placed on the achievement of detailed knowledge and the refinement of skills needed for further study in various branches of the life sciences and related fields.

Advanced Chemistry

This course enables students to deepen their understanding of chemistry through the study of organic chemistry, the structure and properties of matter, energy changes and rates of reaction, equilibrium in chemical systems and electrochemistry. Students will further develop their problem-solving and investigation skills as they investigate chemical processes, and will refine their ability to communicate scientific information. Emphasis will be placed on the importance of chemistry in everyday life and on evaluating the impact of chemical technology on the environment.

Advanced Functions

This course extends students’ experience with functions. Students will investigate the properties of polynomial, rational, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions; develop techniques for combining functions; broaden their understanding of rates of change; and develop facility in applying these concepts and skills.

Advanced Physics

This course allows students to deepen their understanding of physics concepts and theories. In this course, students will continue their exploration of energy transformations and the forces that affect motion. They will investigate electrical, gravitational, and magnetic fields, as well as electromagnetic radiation. Students will also have the chance to explore topics such as the wave nature of light, quantum mechanics, and special relativity. Throughout the course, they will further develop their scientific investigation skills, learning how to analyze data related to a variety of physics concepts and principles both qualitatively and quantitatively. Students will also consider the impact of technological applications of physics on society and the environment.

Analyzing Current Economic Issues

This course encourages students to investigate the nature of the competitive global economy and explores how individuals and societies can gain the information they need to make appropriate economic decisions. Throughout this course, students will learn about the principles of microeconomics and macroeconomics, apply economic models and concepts to interpret economic information, assess the validity of statistics, and investigate marketplace dynamics. Students will use economic inquiry and communication skills to analyze current economic issues, make informed judgments, and present their findings.

Calculus

This course builds on students’ previous experience with functions and their developing understanding of rates of change. Students will solve problems involving geometric and algebraic representations of vectors and representations of lines and planes in three-dimensional space; broaden their understanding of rates of change to include the derivatives of polynomial, sinusoidal, exponential, rational, and radical functions; and apply these concepts and skills to the modelling of real-world relationships.

Canadian and International Law

This course examines elements of Canadian and international law in social, political, and global contexts. Students will study the historical and philosophical sources of law and the principles and practices of international law and will learn to relate them to issues in Canadian society and the wider world. Students will use critical-thinking and communication skills to analyze legal issues, conduct independent research, and present the results of their inquiries in a variety of ways.

Sociology - Understanding Social Change

This course focuses on the use of social science theories, perspectives, and methodologies to investigate and explain shifts in knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and behaviour and their impact on society. Students will critically analyse how and why cultural, social, and behavioural patterns change over time. They will explore the ideas of social theorists and use those ideas to analyse causes of and responses to challenges such as technological change, deviance, and global inequalities. Students will explore ways in which social science research methods can be used to study social change.

English

This course emphasizes the consolidation of literacy, communication, and critical and creative thinking skills necessary for success in academic and daily life. Students will analyse a range of stimulating literary texts from various periods, countries, and cultures; interpret and evaluate informational and graphic texts, and create oral, written, and media texts in a variety of forms. An important focus will be on using academic language coherently and confidently, selecting the reading strategies best suited to particular texts and particular purposes for reading, and developing greater control in writing.

Enriched English - Critical Literacy

To participate fully in the society and workplace of the twenty-first century, today’s students need to use language skillfully and confidently. This course recognizes the central importance of reading and writing skills across the curriculum and prepares students for the literary demands they will encounter in their postsecondary endeavors. Students engage in regular writing practice, producing work in diverse genres. They are encouraged to take ownership of their learning by maintaining a personal literacy portfolio in which they track learning goals and analyze their growth and accomplishments. This course ensures that students gain the critical literacy competencies required for graduation and beyond.

Environment, Resources, & Sustainability

This course encourages students to investigate the interactions between natural and human systems, placing particular emphasis on the impacts of human activity on ecosystems and natural processes. Throughout the course, students will have the opportunity to use their knowledge of geographic concepts and spatial skills to analyse these impacts and propose ways of reducing them. Through the various units of this course, students will: assess resource management and sustainability practices, including related government policies and international accords; consider questions of individual responsibility and environmental stewardship; and explore various ways of developing a more sustainable relationship with their environment.

Ethics, Social Responsibility, and Leadership

This course focuses on developing the leadership skills used in managing a successful business. Throughout this course, students will analyze the role of a leader in business, with a focus on managing group dynamics and motivating employees, dealing with workplace stress and conflict, as well as decision-making and planning.

World History since the 15th Century

This course traces major developments and events in world history since approximately 1450. Students will explore social, economic, and political changes, the historical roots of contemporary issues, and the role of conflict and cooperation in global interrelationships. They will extend their ability to apply the concepts of historical thinking and the historical inquiry process, including the interpretation and analysis of evidence, as they investigate key issues and ideas and assess societal progress or decline in world history.

Enrichment

Beyond the classroom, offering a range of enrichment opportunities that develop skills, character, and curiosity.

French – Explore language and culture to build global awareness and communication skills.

Health & Wellness – Engage in social-emotional learning, experiential outdoor education, and health-focused activities to support personal growth.

Mentorship in Excellence – Receive guidance and inspiration from experts in Science, Commerce, and Humanities.

Learning to Lead – Participate in the Inspired Futures Speaker Series and other leadership experiences that prepare students to make a meaningful impact.

Student Life

Co-Curriculars

Our Grade 12 Pre-University program extends learning beyond the classroom, engaging students in a wide range of co-curriculars such as athletics, robotics, and other leadership opportunities.

These enriching experiences inspire growth, foster mentorship and collaboration, and equip students with the confidence and teamwork skills they need to excel in university and all that follows.

Athletics

GMAA and regional participation in team and individual sports, as well as coaching opportunities.

Robotics

Leadership development opportunities.

Glee

Performance and performance coaching.

And many more CCAs available for our Grade 12 students.

University Preparation

Our Grade 12 Pre-University program offers comprehensive pathway expertise and advising, including guidance on application packages, essay writing, and standardized test preparation.

University Skill Set Prep

Students will continue to build essential skills such as creative thinking, problem-solving, and communication. The Program also emphasizes autonomy, research, note-taking, time management, organization, and networking, ensuring students are well-prepared for post-secondary success.

Student Support

Even the most mature and independent students benefit from guidance and support as they navigate the demands of Grade 12.

Support Offering

We offer a variety of student support services, including guidance counseling, tutoring, and accommodations for students with an Individualized Education Plan (IEP). These resources are in place to help students succeed in their academic and personal growth.

Community Engagement through Social Impact

Students will have dedicated flex time in their schedules to work from home or complete community service hours—an essential requirement for an Ontario diploma and highly valued by top-tier U.S. universities.

Integration in School Life

Grade 12 students will fully integrate into the vibrant St. George’s community, enjoying access to shared spaces such as the cafeteria, fitness centre, a dedicated Grade 12 student lounge, and many common areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about our Grade 12 Pre-University Program? You’ll find answers to some of the most common ones below.

How is this program different from CEGEP in Quebec?

Instead of completing two years of CEGEP after Grade 11, students at St. George’s complete a Grade 12 year and apply directly to universities with the Ontario OSSD diploma.

Can you apply directly from Grade 12 to Quebec University?

Yes, you can apply directly from Grade 12 to a Quebec University.

Is the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) recognized worldwide?

Yes. The OSSD is accepted by universities across Canada, the U.S., the U.K., Europe, and beyond.

How many courses do students take in Grade 12?

Each student completes 8 credits across two semesters, balancing required courses with electives that align with their university goals.

Does the program support university applications in Canada and abroad?

Yes. The Pre-University Coordinator provides individualized guidance for Canadian, U.S., and international applications.

Are international students eligible for the program?

Absolutely, St. George’s welcomes students from around the world, with a family boarding option available for those coming from outside Montreal.

What is the tuition for the Grade 12 Pre-University?

The current Grade 12 Pre-University program tuition is $29,540. Please note that fees may be updated in future years.

What are the application deadlines?

The Priority Admission Application Deadline for St. George's students is November 21 and the General Admission Deadline is January 12.

When should I expect to receive a decision on my application?

Students who applied during the Priority Admission Timeline can expect feedback starting on December 18. Students who apply for the General Admission Timeline can expect an decision by February 23.

Our approach is transformative.

Our community is like no other.

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Ready to Take the Next Step?

Do you meet all the Grade-12 guidelines and are ready to take the next steps?

Admission to the Grade 12 Pre-University Program at St. George’s is based on academic readiness, personal fit, and alignment with the chosen pathway—Commerce, Science, or Humanities—while meeting the academic guidelines outlined for each. Successful candidates are active participants in the community and demonstrate motivation, curiosity, and a commitment to fully engage with the academic and co-curricular opportunities the program offers, setting a clear path toward post-secondary success.