Does Queen's University accept Physics HL?
Kingston, ON
Yes, Transfer Credit Available!
Minimum Grade Required
Credit Granted
PHYS 117 (6.0 units)
💡Expert's Take
“REAL CREDIT IN SCIENCE — BUT PHYSICS MAJORS SHOULD PAUSE
The Good News: Queen's awards PHYS 117 (6.0 units) for IB Physics HL (Score 5+). This is a full-year physics credit with a lab component.
The Catch (Physics Majors):
If you plan to major in Physics or Astrophysics, you cannot use this credit.
The Rule: Your degree plan explicitly requires PHYS 104 or PHYS 106.
The Trap: PHYS 117 is an exclusion to these courses. You cannot count both. You will have to forfeit the credit and take the required course.
The Decision Rule:
Life Sci / Biology / General Science: TAKE THE CREDIT. It clears your physics requirement instantly and frees up a massive 6.0-unit slot in your schedule.
Physics Majors: IGNORE THE CREDIT. You need the calculus-based PHYS 104/106 foundation.
Smith Engineering: NO CREDIT. This credit does not apply to you. You must take APSC 111/112.
Bottom Line: A fantastic time-saver for future doctors and biologists, but a "ghost credit" for physicists and engineers.”
Need help preparing for IB Physics HL?
Your Potential Savings
Credits Earned
6
Ontario Resident
~$200-494/credit
~$1,200 - $2,964
Est. Savings
Out-of-Province
~$200-600/credit
~$1,200 - $3,600
Est. Savings
International
~$1,126-1,844/credit
~$6,756 - $11,064
Est. Savings
(Commerce/Eng higher)
*Tuition rates are for 2025-2026 and vary by faculty. Always verify with Queen'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
McMaster University
Hamilton, ON
Min Grade
5/7
Credit Granted
Unspecified Elective (3 units) - NOT cor...
(3 credits)
Est. Savings
$600
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 Queen's University
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Data Disclaimer
This information is compiled from Queen's 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 Queen's University.