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What should I consider when planning my course load?
You might find yourself faced with a dilemma one term, having to choose between a higher course load or a lighter one of two to four courses. Before making any decisions that may affect your academic performance, financial situation, or health and wellbeing, try to consider these things first:
check square 11 Course Availability and Accesssiblity
Even if you plan on taking a higher course load each term, it may not always pan out that way. Some planning is necessary to avoid situations when you’re unable to enrol in required or prerequisite courses, or desired courses due to:
- Course availability during term and class capacity
- Course scheduling conflicts
- Course location, transportation and commute times (e.g., if a course is offered at a different campus from your other courses, there may not be enough time for you to commute from one campus to the other)
TIP #1
Watch these video tutorials before enroling for courses to familiarize yourself with the process. You can also read about degree planning for degree requirements, and reach out to your faculty's Academic Advisor for program-specific requirements.
Your Academic Preparedness
Your academic performance and overall success depend on your preparedness in taking on higher course loads. Good time management, diligent study habits and focus are key, but don’t forget about:
- Course difficulty and varied learning abilities among students
- Your current academic standing and grade-related risks
- Academic performance and curricular intensity prior to university
TIP #2
Understand SFU's standard grading distribution scale and the minimum GPA needed to remain in Good Academic Standing (GAS). Keep these in mind as you plan your degree!
Your Finances
Tuition affordability can influence your decisions on course loads and ultimately the time it takes for degree completion. On the other hand, graduating sooner means entering the workforce and earning a professional salary sooner than later. Try to think about:
- Tuition and student fees, including textbook costs, and your ability to pay on time
- Your current finances and any access to financial supports from family members
- Financial aid like scholarships, awards, bursaries, loans (i.e. eligibility for some depend on minimum course load requirements)
TIP #3
Use the Cost Calculator to help you estimate your expenses each term and help you budget for the school year.
Your Personal Life
While the academic or administrative sides of the student experience are important, these are only part of the equation! You’ll still need to accommodate the other things in your life outside of school—they impact your ability to take on higher course loads just as much, as all these compete for your time and a slot in your daily or weekly schedule:
- Work and/or volunteer commitments
- Family and/or social obligations
- Your physical and mental health, and wellbeing (i.e. quality of life)
Did you know?
The Work-Study Program gives students the opportunity to work in their field and participate in research-based projects offered part-time on campus. Work-Study hours are flexible and can make room for your obligations outside of academic pursits, while earning you income.
Experiential Learning
These are hands-on opportunities outside of the classroom that develop your skills, build your network and gain practical experience in your future career. Pursuing them may delay your degree completion, but only you can decide if it’s worth your time!
- Co-op and other learning opportunities (i.e. work-study, study abroad, field school, etc.)
- Course exploration (curricular) and academic exploration (co-curricular)
Your Academic Preparedness
Your academic performance and overall success depend on your preparedness in taking on higher course loads. Good time management, diligent study habits and focus are key, but don’t forget about:
- Course difficulty and varied learning abilities among students
- Your current academic standing and grade-related risks
- Academic performance and curricular intensity prior to university
TIP #2
Understand SFU's standard grading distribution scale and the minimum GPA needed to remain in Good Academic Standing (GAS). Keep these in mind as you plan your degree!
Your Personal Life
While the academic or administrative sides of the student experience are important, these are only part of the equation! You’ll still need to accommodate the other things in your life outside of school—they impact your ability to take on higher course loads just as much, as all these compete for your time and a slot in your daily or weekly schedule:
- Work and/or volunteer commitments
- Family and/or social obligations
- Your physical and mental health, and wellbeing (i.e. quality of life)
Did you know?
The Work-Study Program gives students the opportunity to work in their field and participate in research-based projects offered part-time on campus. Work-Study hours are flexible and can make room for your obligations outside of academic pursits, while earning you income.