Does McGill University accept Biology HL?

💡Expert's Take

“McGill grants 6 credits for Biology HL (exempting you from BIOL 111/112), theoretically unlocking BIOL 200 (Molecular Biology) in your first semester. But here is the insider reality: the real gatekeeper for this course isn't Biology—it's Chemistry.

The Hidden Chain: BIOL 200 lists Organic Chemistry (CHEM 212) as a corequisite, meaning you usually take them together. The catch? You can't touch Organic Chem until you have finished General Chem 2 (CHEM 120).

Check Your Status:

If you have IB Chemistry HL (5+): You typically get the CHEM 120 credit. You are clear to take the heavy BIOL 200 + CHEM 212 combo in the Fall.

If you don't have the Chem credit: Don't panic. You aren't 'blocked'—you just have a different schedule.

The 'Winter Stack' Strategy: This is the standard path for thousands of Bio majors:

Fall: Take CHEM 120.

Winter: Take CHEM 212 + BIOL 200 together.

Note: This is not a setback; it is the approved progression.

Weeder Warning: That Winter semester (BIOL 200 + CHEM 212) is famous for a reason. Both courses are conceptually demanding. If you stack them, treat it like a full-time job (15+ hours/week of study).

Verdict: Your Bio credits are gold, but they only work if your Chemistry keys are ready to match them.”