A Simple Guide to OCSB High School Graduation Requirements
Graduating from high school is an important milestone for students and families. At the Ottawa Catholic School Board, the path to earning an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) is clear, supportive, and designed to help every student succeed.
To earn an OSSD, students are required to:
- Complete 30+ credits
- Finish two asynchronous e-learning courses
- Pass the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT)
- Complete 40 hours of community involvement
New! Recognizing Students Who Go Above and Beyond
In Ontario, high school students must complete at least 40 volunteer hours to graduate. Now, there is a new way to recognize students who choose to give even more back to their communities.
Students who complete 50 or more hours can earn the Minister’s Certificate of Recognition for Community Involvement, a special acknowledgement of their leadership, service, and civic spirit.
The certificate is awarded at three levels:
- Bronze (50–99 hours)
- Silver (100–199 hours)
- Gold (200+ hours)
This recognition can help students stand out when applying for jobs, post-secondary programs, apprenticeships, and scholarships.
Understanding Compulsory Courses
Ontario high school students take required courses in each grade to build a strong foundation in subjects like English, math, science, history, and more. These compulsory courses help students develop essential skills and stay on track for graduation.
Every course is identified by a course code that shows the subject, grade level, and course type. Understanding these codes helps families make thoughtful course selections.
More Ways to Learn
OCSB offers a range of programs that allow students to explore career pathways and gain hands-on experience, including:
- SHSM (Specialist High Skills Majors)
- OYAP (Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program)
- Co-op
- Dual Credits
- Focus Programs
- Additional certificates in French, Business, and Tech Education
Supporting Students Every Step of the Way
Navigating high school can raise questions about courses, credits, and next steps. The OCSB High School Program Guide and myBlueprint planning tool help students map their journey and choose courses that align with their goals.
Students, families, educators and counsellors work together to ensure every learner is prepared, academically, emotionally, and spiritually, for the future ahead.
Growing with Purpose
Graduation is not just about earning credits. It is about developing confidence, purpose, and readiness for the world beyond high school. With clear requirements, strong guidance, and a wide range of opportunities, OCSB students are supported every step of the way.
