I have exceeded the maximum allowable number of Level 1 units for my degree, but a couple of the schools (grad & law) I am looking at ask for a full-year (what McMaster would call six units over two consecutive terms) of English. If I take Level 1 English to fulfill that requirement, I know they won't count for my degree, but will the results count toward my CA?

I think every course you take will count towards your CA even though it doesn't count for your degree.

I've never formally asked about this, but I believe your transcript reflects all the courses you've taken at Mac. However, your faculty advisor would be the best person to contact!