Discretionary Policy: McMaster evaluates IB credits after admission. Results below are based on Faculty-specific rules and student reports. They are not a guarantee of specific course exemptions. Always confirm with your academic advisor.
Does McMaster University accept Physics HL?
Hamilton, ON
Yes, Transfer Credit Available – Likely
Minimum Grade Required
Credit Granted
Unspecified Elective (3 units) - NOT core credit
Generic Credit: Counts as an elective, but may not replace a mandatory prerequisite for your major.
💡Expert's Take
“ENGINEERING HARD POLICY: McMaster Engineering does not accept IB Physics HL for core credit. Even with a 7, you must take PHYS 1D03 (Mechanics) with everyone else.
The 'Ghost Credit' Reality: You might see 3 generic transfer units (e.g., PHYS 1***) on your transcript, but they are effectively useless.
The Catch: Engineering schedules are rigid. Your few elective slots are reserved for Complementary Studies (Humanities/Social Sciences), not extra Science.
The Result: These credits sit on your transcript but do not reduce your workload, tuition, or time to degree.
Strategic Verdict: Don't bank on saving time or money here. The real value of IB Physics is performance, not exemption. You have seen this material before—use that advantage to crush the PHYS 1D03 midterms and pad your first-year GPA.”
Need help preparing for IB Physics HL?
Your Potential Savings
Credits Earned
3
Ontario Resident
~$200-340/credit
~$600 - $1,020
Est. Savings
Out-of-Province
~$250-421/credit
~$750 - $1,263
Est. Savings
International
~$1,500-1,900/credit
~$4,500 - $5,700
Est. Savings
(Eng/Health Sci higher)
*Tuition rates are for 2025 and vary by department. Always verify with McMaster's official sources before making decisions.
📊 Compare Physics HL at Other Universities
See how Physics HL transfer credits compare across Canadian universities. Each school has different grade requirements and savings potential.
McGill University
Montreal, QC
Min Grade
5/7
Credit Granted
PHYS 101 + PHYS 102 (6 credits)
(6 credits)
Est. Savings
$2,520
Queen's University
Kingston, ON
Min Grade
5/7
Credit Granted
PHYS 117 (6.0 units)
(6 credits)
Est. Savings
$1,398
Simon Fraser University
Burnaby, BC
Min Grade
4/7
Credit Granted
SFU PHYS 101 (3), Q/B-Sci; SFU PHYS 102 ...
(6 credits)
Est. Savings
$1,398
Tip: Different provinces have different tuition rates. Use these comparisons to find the best value for your residency status.
Other IB Subjects at McMaster University
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Data Disclaimer
This information is compiled from McMaster University official sources and verified community reports. It is NOT a substitute for official academic advising. Always confirm with your advisor before making decisions.
Last updated: December 2025
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Download a PDF of this transfer credit information for Physics HL at McMaster University.