How to Choose Your CSEC Subjects

In third form, most students choose the subjects they'll sit for CSEC. It feels like a big decision, and it is, but with a little planning you can make a choice that keeps your options open.

Start with the core subjects

Most schools expect everyone to take:

• English Language
• Mathematics

These two are needed for almost every job, college programme and university course, so treat them as must-haves.

Think about where you want to go

You don't need to know your exact career at 14, but think about the general direction:

• Medicine, nursing, pharmacy: Biology, Chemistry, and often Physics
• Engineering and construction: Physics, Additional Maths or Technical Drawing
• Business, accounting and banking: Principles of Accounts, Principles of Business, Economics
• IT and computing: Information Technology, Additional Maths
• Law, teaching and media: English Literature, History, Social Studies

Look up the entry requirements for a couple of CAPE or university programmes that interest you. They'll tell you which CSEC subjects you need.

Play to your strengths

Pick subjects you're good at and actually enjoy. You'll study harder for them, and good grades open more doors than a subject you struggle through.

Keep options open

If you're unsure, a balanced mix of a science, a business subject and an arts or language subject gives you choices later.

Don't pick for the wrong reasons

Avoid choosing a subject only because:

• Your friends are taking it
• You heard it's "easy"
• You like the teacher, who may not teach it next year

Be realistic about the number

More subjects isn't always better. Six to eight good grades usually beat ten average ones. Make sure you have time to do well in each, including the SBAs.

Talk to people

• Your guidance counsellor
• Teachers of the subjects you're considering
• Older students who've taken them
• Your parents or guardians

Final checklist

• English and Maths included
• Subjects needed for the careers you're interested in
• Mostly subjects you're good at and enjoy
• A manageable number

Whatever you choose, steady work from fourth form will matter more than the subjects themselves.