Students who need 96 or fewer credits to complete their degree requirements are expected to complete their degree in no more than eight terms after their initial registration for the degree.

Students in the Freshman/Foundation Year Program become subject to these regulations one year after their initial registration. Students who wish to exceed this time limit must submit their request in writing (by email) to their Faculty advisor, to be approved by the Associate Dean, Student Affairs, of the Faculty of Science.

Students registered in the B.Sc. are expected to complete the requirements of their program and degree within 120 credits. Students will receive credit for all courses (subject to degree regulations) taken up to and including the semester in which they obtain 120 credits. Students who want to remain at McGill beyond that semester must submit their request in writing (by email) to their Faculty advisor, to be approved by the Associate Dean, Student Affairs, Faculty of Science. Permission for exceeding the time and/or credit limits will normally be granted only for valid academic reasons, such as a change of program (subject to departmental approval) and part-time status. If permission is granted, students will receive credit only for required and complementary courses necessary to complete their program requirements.

Students who have been granted Advanced Standing for the International Baccalaureate, Advanced Placement examinations, GCE A-Levels, French Baccalaureate, and other qualifications may complete 120 credits following admission, as per the University regulations described in University Regulations and Resources > Student Records > Advanced Standing Transfer Credits.