At ICE Education, we are committed to ensuring our students have the best path to success, including earning their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). The OSSD is a high school graduation diploma awarded to students in Ontario after completing specific requirements. If you’re a student or parent looking to understand what’s involved in earning the OSSD, this blog will break it down for you.
What is the OSSD?
The Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) is the official certification awarded to students who complete their high school education in Ontario. It is recognized by post-secondary institutions, employers, and other educational systems worldwide. The OSSD opens doors to university, college, apprenticeships, and the workforce, setting students on a solid foundation for their future.
How to Earn the OSSD at ICE Education
At ICE Education, we provide a comprehensive and supportive environment for students to complete their OSSD requirements. Here’s a breakdown of what students need to achieve in order to earn the OSSD:
- Complete 30 Credits:
- 18 Compulsory Credits: These are core courses that every student must complete, including English, Math, Science, Social Studies, and Physical Education. These courses provide the fundamental knowledge students need to succeed.
- 12 Optional Credits: Students have the opportunity to choose courses based on their interests and future goals, allowing them to explore areas like Arts, Technology, or Business.
- Pass the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT):
- The OSSLT is a standardized test that assesses a student’s reading and writing skills. Students are required to pass this test to graduate. If a student doesn’t pass the test, they can retake it or complete the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Course (OSSLC) to meet the literacy requirement.
- At ICE Education, we provide targeted support and resources to ensure students are well-prepared for the OSSLT, helping them build the necessary skills for success.
- Complete 40 Hours of Community Involvement:
- Community involvement is an essential part of the OSSD. Students must complete a minimum of 40 hours of community service by volunteering at various organizations, helping them develop important life skills like leadership, communication, and empathy.
- We encourage our students at ICE Education to take part in meaningful community work that aligns with their passions, creating opportunities to make a difference and enhance their personal growth.
- Maintain a Minimum Grade of 50% in Each Course:
- While the OSSD doesn’t require a specific GPA for graduation, students must maintain a passing grade of at least 50% in each course to earn the necessary credits. This ensures that students are academically prepared for future endeavors, whether in higher education or in the workforce.
Why Choose ICE Education for Earning Your OSSD?
At ICE Education, we offer a flexible, supportive, and comprehensive environment for students to achieve their OSSD, with the option of online learning to meet individual needs. Here’s how we help our students succeed:
- Flexible Learning Options: Whether students prefer in-person or online classes, ICE Education offers tailored learning experiences to fit individual schedules. Our online OSSD program provides flexibility for students to study from anywhere and at their own pace.
- Personalized Support: We understand that every student is unique, and we offer one-on-one guidance, tutoring, and academic support to ensure that students are on track to meet graduation requirements.
- Focus on Student Well-being: We prioritize creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive learning environment, ensuring students can focus on their education while feeling confident and secure.
- Pathways to Success: Whether students are aiming for university, college, apprenticeships, or the workforce, our guidance counselors and educators provide personalized advice and pathways to help students achieve their post-graduation goals.
Get Started on Your OSSD Journey with ICE Education
Earning the OSSD at ICE Education is an investment in your future. With our expert guidance, flexible programs, and strong focus on student success, we help students meet all OSSD requirements while supporting their personal and academic growth. Whether you are a high school student, a mature student, or someone returning to education, we are here to help you achieve your educational goals.
Ready to start your OSSD journey with ICE Education? Contact us today to learn more about our programs and how we can support you every step of the way!