The Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)
The Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) is a prestigious qualification recognized globally. It signifies the completion of secondary school education according to the rigorous standards set by the Ontario Ministry of Education, ensuring students are well-prepared for post-secondary education and a wide range of career opportunities.
Key Points
The Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) is a globally-recognized qualification designed to prepare students for success in post-secondary education and beyond. Earning an OSSD requires students to complete a minimum of 18 service hours, 40 hours of community service, and pass the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT). The comprehensive curriculum is designed to provide a well-rounded education that nurtures critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability.
Learn MoreSummary of Requirements
Compulsory Courses
These courses form the foundation of the OSSD curriculum, ensuring students acquire essential skills and knowledge:
- 4 credits in English (1 credit per grade)
- 3 credits in Mathematics (at least 1 credit in Grade 11 or 12)
- 2 credits in Science
- 1 credit in Canadian History (Grade 10)
- 1 credit in Canadian Geography (Grade 9)
- 1 credit in Arts (visual or performing arts or media arts)
- 1 credit in Health and Physical Education
- 1 credit in French as a Second Language
- 0.5 credit in Civics and 0.5 credit in Careers
Examples of Elective Courses
Students have the flexibility to explore their interests and specialize in areas right with their own career aspirations:
- Advanced Functions
- Calculus and Vectors
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Computer Science
- Social Sciences and Humanities
- Business Studies
Pathways and Streams
Students can tailor their education to match their career goals:
- Arts/Humanities/Social Sciences (Liberal Arts)
- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
- Business and Commerce
- Social Services and Education
- Information Technology and Computer Science
Community Involvement and Literacy Requirement
Community Involvement
To graduate with an OSSD, students must complete 40 hours of unpaid community service activities that the Ministry of Education's Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT).
This requirement helps students gain life awareness, impact their communities, and develop a sense of social responsibility.
Literacy Requirement
All students must meet the provincial literacy standard by either passing the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT), or if eligible, by completing the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Course (OSSLC).
Students are expected to take the OSSLT in Grade 10 after at least 40 weeks of instruction in English as a second language at the end of Grade 9, after at least one full year of instruction.
How We Support Our Students
At Queensgate International School, we provide a supportive and engaging learning environment to help students achieve their academic and personal goals. Our approach includes:
Support Services Provided
Certified Ontario Teachers (OCT) who are experienced and dedicated to student success.
Small Class Sizes
Personalized attention through small class sizes. This fosters meaningful understanding of complex concepts.
Comprehensive Academic Advising
Helps students pick their academic pathways.
Access to Online Resources and Materials
Students benefit from a suite of online resources that are always available for self-paced study.
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
Join Queensgate International School and earn your Ontario Secondary School Diploma today!
Apply Now