Getting to Know Your High School Graduation Requirements
Getting to Know Your High School Graduation Requirements
Graduating from high school is a big milestone, and knowing the requirements ahead of time can make the journey smoother. Whether you’re a student planning your courses or a parent supporting your teen, this page outlines everything you need to know to stay on track for earning an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). From credits and community involvement, to certificates and e-learning, we’ve got you covered.
Ontario Secondary School Diploma Graduation Requirements
To earn an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), your child must meet the following requirements:
Ontario Secondary School Diploma Graduation Requirements
To earn an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), your child must meet the following requirements:
- Complete 30 or more high school course credits.
- Complete two asynchronous e-learning courses before the end of grade 12.
- Pass the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT).
- Complete 40 hours of volunteer community involvement.
What Happens if Students Don’t Meet Course Requirements? If your child does not meet the four required elements for an Ontario Secondary School Diploma, they can still receive an Ontario Secondary School Certificate (14+ credits) or the Certificate of Accomplishment (fewer than 14 credits). If you’re 18 or older and want to earn additional high school credits or your diploma, visit St. Nicholas Adult High School.
You can learn more about high school report cards and grades in our High School Program Guide.
Compulsory High School Courses By Grade
Compulsory High School Courses By Grade
To help students build a strong foundation for graduation and future success, Ontario high school students are required to complete specific compulsory courses at each grade level. These courses ensure that all students develop essential skills in key subject areas such as English, math, science, and more. Below is a breakdown of the required courses by grade.
Understanding High School Course Types: Each course code reveals the subject, grade level, and type of course it is. Understanding these codes can help students and families make informed choices about their learning path. Plus, knowing which courses are compulsory is key to staying on track for graduation. About Course Types ›
| Grade 9 | Grade 10 | Grade 11 | Grade 12 |
|---|---|---|---|
- | Student selects up to 1 optional course | Student selects up to 5 optional courses | Student selects up to 6 optional courses |
| Religion | Religion | Religion | Religion |
| English | English | English | English |
| Math | Math | Math | Elective |
| Canadian Geography | Canadian History | Elective OR Compulsory (STEM) | Elective |
| Science | Science | Elective | Elective |
| French | Careers and Civics | Elective | Elective |
| Physical Education OR Technology OR Art | Technology OR Art OR Physical Education | Elective | Elective |
| Art OR Physical Education OR Technology | Elective OR Compulsory | Elective | Elective |
Diploma requirements depend on when you started grade 9.
If you started Grade 9 in or before Fall 2023 ›
If you started Grade 9 in Fall 2024 and after ›
Ready to Plan Your High School Courses on Your myBlueprint Account?
Ready to Plan Your High School Courses on Your myBlueprint Account?
Understanding High School Requirements
Understanding High School Requirements
High School e-Learning Credits
The e-learning courses are asynchronous online courses instructed by a certified Ontario educator who provides on-going feedback, assessment, evaluation, and reporting. The e-learning teachers also incorporate any accommodations and/or modifications identified in a student’s Individual Education Plan (IEP). The e-learning students can also access a wider course selection than that available at their home school.
Completing Your High School Volunteer Hours
To graduate from high school, your child must participate in community involvement activities by completing 40 hours of volunteer work. They can start as early as July, before they begin Grade 9. These activities must be:
- An unpaid service.
- Included in the OCSB’s list of eligible community involvement activities.
- Completed outside of class time.
- Completed by the end of Grade 12.
If your child is under 18, you must sign the Community Involvement Record.
Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT)
The literacy test usually takes place in March of your child’s Grade 10 year. The test is meant to determine whether they have the skills in reading and writing that they will need to succeed in school, at work, and daily. If students are unsuccessful in their first attempt, they can retake the test in subsequent years. Schools can also offer students the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Course in place of the test after the first attempt. You can learn more about the OSSLT in our High School Guide.
Ready to Plan Your High School Journey?
Ready to Plan Your High School Journey?
Students and their families are encouraged to plan ahead by exploring the website, High School Program Guide and myBlueprint, as a starting point for any discussions with teachers, guidance counsellors, and school administrators to align with your goals before you graduate!
Log in to myBlueprint to start exploring the opportunities and to map out your high school pathway.
Connect with your School Counsellor to discuss your options and see which certificates and programs are the best fit for you.
Take charge of your future—start today!
