Skip to main content
What are your chances of acceptance?
Your chance of acceptance
Duke University
Loading…
UCLA
Loading…
+ add school
Your chancing factors
Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
200
800
| 800 verbal
200
800

Extracurriculars

Low accuracy (4 of 18 factors)

High School Elective Options

Hi everyone, I'm a little confused about what electives I can take in high school. What are some common choices? And how much freedom do we have in picking our elective classes?

9 months ago

Hi there! Elective courses in high school can vary widely depending on the school, but they usually offer students some flexibility to explore their interests outside of the required core subjects. Here are some common elective categories and examples:

1. Arts: You may be able to choose from various visual and performing arts classes like drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, theater, chorus, band, orchestra, or dance.

2. Foreign Languages: Schools often offer a few different language options, such as Spanish, French, or Chinese, or sometimes even more unusual languages like German, Italian, Japanese, or Latin. These classes can help you develop communication and language skills, as well as learn about different cultures.

3. Technology and Computers: You might find courses focusing on computer programming or coding, video production, graphic design, or digital photography among your choices.

4. Business, Entrepreneurship, and Personal Finance: Your school may offer courses that teach basic financial literacy, or introduce you to marketing, entrepreneurship, management, or accounting.

5. Health and Physical Education: Some electives may focus on overall wellness, such as nutrition, personal fitness, or weight training, while others might offer more specialized activities like yoga, dance, or specific sports.

6. Social Sciences: Some schools offer electives that provide an in-depth look at specific topics in history, political science, psychology, or sociology.

7. STEM: Elective options in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics could include classes like robotics, environmental science, astronomy, or computer-aided drafting.

The freedom you have in picking elective classes generally depends on your school's course offerings, schedule, and any graduation requirements. Some schools may prioritize certain elective choices for specific grade levels, so you might have more options as an upperclassman. Additionally, your base schedule with required core subjects might impact how many elective classes you're able to take. It's important to consult your school counselor to learn more about your options and make appropriate choices based on your graduation requirements or college/career goals.

Remember, electives are a great way to explore your interests, develop new skills, and potentially spark a passion that could lead to a future major, career, or hobby, so I'd definitely recommend making room in your schedule for at least a couple. Good luck!

9 months ago

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.