The Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) is awarded to students who meet specific requirements in their high school education. The journey towards earning an OSSD involves several key stages:
1. Stage 1: Enrollment and Initial Planning
- Registering for High School: Students begin their high school education in Grade 9. At this stage, they are introduced to the OSSD requirements and available course options.
- Course Selection: In Grade 9, students select courses based on their interests and future goals, with a balance between core subjects (English, Math, Science, Social Studies) and electives.
- Academic Guidance: Students are advised on their course selection to ensure they are on track to meet OSSD graduation requirements, including compulsory credits.
2. Stage 2: Completion of Compulsory Credits
- Earning Core Credits: Throughout Grades 9-12, students must complete 18 compulsory credits, including:
- 4 Credits in English
- 3 Credits in Math
- 2 Credits in Science
- 1 Credit in Canadian History
- 1 Credit in Canadian Geography
- 1 Credit in the Arts
- 1 Credit in Health and Physical Education
- 1 Credit in French as a Second Language
- 0.5 Credit in Career Studies
- 0.5 Credit in Civics
- Elective Credits: Students also choose electives based on their interests and career plans, with a minimum of 12 elective credits required.
3. Stage 3: Earning the Required Literacy and Numeracy Skills
- Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT): Students must successfully complete the OSSLT in Grade 10. This standardized test assesses literacy in reading and writing. If students don’t pass, they may take a literacy course in Grade 12.
- Numeracy Requirement: Since 2020, students are required to complete a numeracy assessment in Grade 10, which evaluates their ability to apply mathematical concepts in real-world situations.
4. Stage 4: Accumulating the Required Number of Credits
- Total Credits: To earn the OSSD, students must accumulate a total of 30 credits. This includes the 18 compulsory credits and 12 elective credits.
- Dual Credit Programs: Students may also have the opportunity to earn additional credits through dual credit programs in partnership with postsecondary institutions, helping them prepare for further education or work.
5. Stage 5: Completing 40 Hours of Community Service
- Volunteer Work: Students must complete at least 40 hours of community involvement during their high school years. This work should benefit the community and can include volunteering at local charities, schools, or other organizations.
- Record of Hours: Students must keep a record of their hours and submit it for approval by their school.
6. Stage 6: Review and Graduation Requirements
- Course and Credit Review: In the final stages, students and their guidance counselors review the student’s academic progress to ensure all required credits are earned, including any required courses for specific postsecondary pathways (university, college, apprenticeship).
- Graduation Requirements: Students must have completed the required number of credits, passed the OSSLT or Literacy Course, completed the community service requirement, and met the numeracy assessment.
7. Stage 7: Graduation and Awarding of the OSSD
- Final Verification: Once students have met all requirements, their records are reviewed for final confirmation.
- Graduation Ceremony: Upon completion of the OSSD requirements, students are invited to a graduation ceremony, where they officially receive their diploma.
8. Stage 8: Post-Graduation Pathways
- Transition to Postsecondary Education: After receiving their OSSD, students can move on to university, college, apprenticeships, or the workforce, depending on their future goals and the courses they took during high school.
- Career Development: For students seeking career-specific education, vocational training, or employment, the OSSD provides the foundational knowledge and skills needed to begin their chosen path.
This structured progression ensures that students not only meet the academic requirements but also develop key skills and experiences necessary for success in higher education and future careers.