“Scientific or Literary?”
That question used to be simple. Today, Saudi Arabia’s high school system has undergone a major transformation and is now called the Pathway System.
The new system is advanced and designed to prepare students for university and the job market. But honestly, it causes confusion and stress for many students and parents.
You’ll hear new names: General Pathway, Health & Life, Computing & Engineering… So, what’s the difference? How do you know which is right for your child? And if they choose the wrong pathway, will they miss their dream university major?
At Talead Academy, we’ve simplified the story so you can choose your child’s pathway with confidence and peace of mind.
1. First Year: The “Self-Discovery” Year
The first year of high school (Grade 10) is called the Common Year.
During this year, all students study the same subjects—a mix of science, humanities, and technical courses.
Purpose: Let the student try everything. Discover their strengths: Are they good at physics? Do they enjoy programming? Are they creative in religious studies?
Tip: Don’t stress about choosing a pathway in the first year. Focus on achieving high grades and observe their interests. Their grades and inclinations this year will guide the best pathway for years two and three.
2. The Five Pathways… Which One to Choose?
After the first year, it’s time to make a choice. Here’s a summary of each pathway:
- General Pathway (Flexible Choice): Combines science and humanities. Perfect for students who are still unsure or want to keep all university options open.
- Computing & Engineering Pathway (Future Tech Innovators): Heavy focus on math, physics, programming, and AI. This is the path for future engineers.
- Health & Life Pathway (Future Doctors): Intensive biology and chemistry. The main gateway to health-related colleges (medicine, pharmacy, nursing).
- Business Administration Pathway (Future Leaders): Focus on accounting, management, and law. Ideal for students aiming for business and economics colleges.
- Sharia & Law Pathway (For the Literati): Focus on religious sciences, Arabic language, and law.
3. Don’t Choose “Because Everyone Else Did”
One of the biggest mistakes is picking a pathway just because:
- “My friends chose it,” or
- “My parents want me to be a doctor,” while your child hates biology.
The choice must balance: Ability + Interest.
If your child struggles in math, the Engineering Pathway will be very difficult. If they are squeamish around blood, the Health Pathway isn’t suitable.
Sit with your child, discuss their strengths, review their first-year grades, and decide based on reality.
4. New Subjects… You’ll Need Support
The Pathway System introduced new, specialized subjects that didn’t exist before, such as Data Science, Internet of Things, Engineering, and Financial Management.
These subjects are advanced, and parents often cannot teach them at home due to their specialized nature.
This is where foundation and continuous follow-up become essential. Don’t let your child face these new subjects alone—because in high school, the GPA doesn’t forgive mistakes.
