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 Chemistry HL?
Hamilton, ON
Yes, Transfer Credit Available – Likely
Minimum Grade Required
Credit Granted
Student-reported: CHEM 1A03 + 1AA3 (6 units) OR Level 1 CHEM elective credit — Faculty assessment required
Generic Credit: Counts as an elective, but may not replace a mandatory prerequisite for your major.
💡Expert's Take
“FACULTY DISCRETIONARY – VERIFY YOUR ASSESSMENT
McMaster's policy for IB Chemistry HL (grade 5+) is that advanced credit "may be considered" and is "evaluated after admission at the discretion of the Faculty." This means the exact credits you receive are not predetermined.
What students commonly report receiving: CHEM 1A03 + CHEM 1AA3 (6 units) — but this is not guaranteed.
Critical unknowns: Will these credits satisfy your core chemistry requirements, or count as general electives? Does your specific program (Life Sciences vs. Pure Chemistry vs. Health Sciences) accept these credits the same way?
Our advice: Don't bank on skipping first-year chemistry. Plan to take CHEM 1A03 in your first year. If you receive transfer credit, use it strategically (e.g., as a buffer for elective slots or to take an advanced course). Always confirm your exact assessment via Mosaic after admission.”
Need help preparing for IB Chemistry HL?
Your Potential Savings
Credits Earned
6
Ontario Resident
~$200-340/credit
~$1,200 - $2,040
Est. Savings
Out-of-Province
~$250-421/credit
~$1,500 - $2,526
Est. Savings
International
~$1,500-1,900/credit
~$9,000 - $11,400
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 Chemistry HL at Other Universities
See how Chemistry 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
CHEM 110 + CHEM 120 (6 credits)
(6 credits)
Est. Savings
$2,520
Queen's University
Kingston, ON
Min Grade
5/7
Credit Granted
CHEM 112 (6.0 units)
(6 credits)
Est. Savings
$1,398
Simon Fraser University
Burnaby, BC
Min Grade
5/7
Credit Granted
SFU CHEM 122 (2), Q; SFU CHEM 121 (4), Q...
(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 Chemistry HL at McMaster University.