SUBJECTS MATTER
CHOOSING YOUR SUBJECTS

STRATEGIC APPROACH

The subjects you choose at an early age will influence your future academic path. A subject you drop now may not be available at an advanced level later due to a lack of foundational knowledge. Final school-leaving exams (A-Level, International Baccalaureate – HL subjects, Abitur, and others) are taken in advanced subjects, and the combination you choose will determine your eligibility for certain university programmes.

For example, to apply for degrees in Engineering, Medicine, Psychology or Sciences, you will need a diploma with subjects such as Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics studied at an advanced level. Requirements differ from one university to another, so it is recommended to check the specific entry requirements of the universities you are considering.

If you plan to take your school-leaving exams or their equivalent in Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, or Physics, the relevant subject(s) must be studied at an advanced level in Years 9 and 10 (GCSE for those in the British system, science track for those in the Romanian system). Each education system has its own conditions that must be met to study certain subjects in the last two years of secondary school. Contact us for personalised guidance.

It is recommended to check the entry requirements of the universities you are interested in, as these may vary by institution and country.

KEEP YOUR OPTIONS OPEN

If you are not yet sure what you want to study at university, you can keep your options open. Choose subjects considered “facilitating” by most universities. These include Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, History, Geography, English Literature and Modern Languages.

After Year 10, many educational programmes reduce the number of subjects to 3–4 (A-Level) or 6 (IB). In this case, select subjects you are good at and enjoy, but ensure they meet the entry requirements for the fields of study you are considering. Also, check whether your school allows you to take the desired subjects. You may be limited by earlier choices, academic performance or exam results (I/GCSE).

MAKING AN INFORMED DECISION

To make the best decision, consider the following advice:

• Discuss with teachers and analyse the content of the subjects in detail.
• Choose subjects you enjoy and are likely to achieve good results in.
• Learn about professions that match your skills and competencies.
• Talk to a career advisor or take an aptitude test. Your Education Shape offers personalised consultancy to guide you in career choices.
• Combine subjects from different fields (e.g., humanities with sciences) to keep your options flexible.
• Avoid combining subjects with very similar content, such as Economics and Business.

• Explore university courses that do not require specific subjects in your school-leaving diploma.

MAKE YOUR OWN INFORMED CHOICES AND ENJOY YOUR STUDIES!

Choose wisely and enjoy your educational journey! Contact us if you have any questions.