Grade 6+ Required: The University of Alberta awards transfer credit for IB grades of 6 or 7 only. A grade of 5 may satisfy admission requirements but does not grant course credit.
Tuition Note: Savings shown are for domestic students (~$238/credit). International students pay significantly more (~$1,000+/credit).
Does University of Alberta accept Physics SL?
Edmonton, AB
Yes, Transfer Credit Available!
Minimum Grade Required
Credit Granted
PHYS 124 (3 units)
💡Expert's Take
IB Physics SL can still be a real advantage at the University of Alberta — but treat it as strategic placement, not a "skip physics forever" coupon.
The big nuance with Physics at UAlberta is stream fit. Physics SL typically maps to PHYS 124, which is an algebra-based physics course used widely in life, environmental, and medical science pathways — not necessarily the same first-year route used by Physics majors (often calculus-based) or Engineering.
What Students Should Watch For (the Usual Traps)
- Stream mismatch (the #1 trap): your program may prefer or require a different first-year physics sequence (e.g., calculus-based physics, or an engineering-specific course like EN PH 131). Your IB credit is still valuable, but confirm it matches what your degree plan expects.
- Credit exclusivity: UAlberta notes that credit is normally granted for only one of PHYS 124, PHYS 144, or EN PH 131. So "taking the other stream later" may not add extra credit — it can simply be the route you choose instead.
- Confidence check: if your SL experience was a bit formula-driven, first-year physics can feel faster and more technical. Credit helps most when it reduces overload, not when it pushes you into a shaky jump.
Actionable Strategy
If your program accepts this credit cleanly, use it to reduce first-year load or create schedule flexibility. If your program expects a different physics stream (or you want a stronger foundation), consider taking the program's preferred intro physics anyway and use the IB credit elsewhere — or confirm whether declining the credit is the cleanest option for your plan.
Official UAlberta award line (Physics SL):
Minimum score: Final IB grade of 6 or higher (Advanced Standing eligibility)
Credit granted: PHYSICS (SL) → PHYS 124 (3 units)
Need help preparing for IB Physics SL?
Your Potential Savings
Credits Earned
3
Tuition per Credit*
~$217
Est. Savings*
~$651
*Tuition rates are approximate and may vary by academic year, faculty, and program. Always verify with University of Alberta's official sources before making decisions.
📊 Compare Physics SL at Other Universities
See how Physics SL transfer credits compare across Canadian universities. Each school has different grade requirements and savings potential.
Simon Fraser University
Burnaby, BC
Min Grade
4/7
Credit Granted
SFU PHYS 1XX (3)
(3 credits)
Est. Savings
$699
Tip: Different provinces have different tuition rates. Use these comparisons to find the best value for your residency status.
Other IB Subjects at University of Alberta
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Data Disclaimer
This information is compiled from University of Alberta 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: February 2026
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Download a PDF of this transfer credit information for Physics SL at University of Alberta.