NEWTS needed for becoming an Auror

[Nicholina ODonnell]

No: HPFGUIDX 69998

There has been a lot of talk about the result of Harry's Potion's OWL on his becoming an Auror.  I wanted to chime in with the thought that he might not really have to achieve an E NEWT in Potions. 

When McGonagall is advising Harry, she says (excerpts from pages 662 and 663 in OOP, American version):

"They ask for a minimum of five N.E.W.T.s, and nothing under 'Exceeds Expectations' grade, I see."

After some other things, she goes on to say:

"I would also advise Transfiguration .....(snip)..... Then you ought to do Charms, always useful, and Potions.  Yes, Potter, Potions."

My point her is that it seems that MoM only specifies five NEWTS of at least E level, without absolutely mandating which five, unlike the requirements for Healers, which are very specific.  McGonagall ADVISES the courses she lists and those are probably the best, but they might also like some candidates with a little variety.  

Perhaps Harry's five will be something like DADA, Transfigurations, Charms, Care of Magical Creatures, and Occlumency (sort of fooling, as it's not a usual subject and may not even have a NEWT for it, but it would be a useful skill for an Auror, I'd think).  Or maybe, instead of Occlumency, Herbology.

I'd still like to see Harry as the DADA teacher, but that seems to be ruled out by the JK Rowling interview someone posted earlier.  Sorry - I can't remember who.  Of course, there are other options - Quidditch start extraordinaire, for example, but I don't think we should rule out Auror, even if his Potions OWL isn't sufficiently high (jury's still out on that one).

Incidentally, does any one else think it's strange that Hogwarts student's don't receive career advice prior to a couple weeks before their OWLs?  I mean, it would make sense for Harry to know that he should be working hard at Potions to achieve his desired career when he would have had more than 2 weeks (or so) to bone up for it.  It would make sense for it to be earlier in the year, or even more sense at the end of second year  when students are picking their electives.  Maybe both then and in the OWL year for a refresher or last minute advice on a change of heart?

Nicholina