This is a preliminary report on a longitudinal study of upgrading of Basic-level students to General-level programs. Toronto, Ontario, secondary school courses are offered at six levels of difficulty. The issue of upgrading is significant in the job market as those with General-level diplomas have advantages over those with Basic-level diplomas. Upgrading is defined as those processes designed to identify Basic-level students capable of General-level work, determine their suitability, and transfer them to General-level programs. A preliminary examination of the process reveals two primary findings: one, that the barrier between Basic and General levels is permeable, and two, that the permeability is achieved through a number of alternative paths. The process seems to be student-centered, with the upgrading path chosen to fit the requirements of each student. The students in this study were average to high achievers. Numerous tables are included. Subsequent reports will provide a longitudinal dimension to the study. (MD)