Quick Links

  • Home
  • Graduation Requirements

Graduation Requirements

ONTARIO SECONDARY SCHOOLS DIPLOMA REQUIREMENTS

You must meet the literacy graduation requirement to earn your high school diploma.

For most students, this means passing the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT).

If you do not pass the OSSLT, there are other ways to meet the literacy graduation requirement. Contact your guidance counsellor to find out about these options.

If you started Grade 9 in the 2020–2021 school year or later, you must earn at least 2 online learning credits to get your high school diploma.

Credits earned during COVID-19

If you were in Grade 9 and learning remotely when all schools were closed (from April 2021 to June 2021), you can count 1 of the high school credits you earned towards the 2 online learning credits you need to graduate.

OPTING OUT

If you want to opt out of the online graduation requirement you must be:

  • 18 years of age or older
  • 16 or 17 years of age and have withdrawn from your parent or guardian’s control

If you meet this requirement, you can complete the exemption form available from your school board.

Otherwise, your parent or guardian needs to ask for this exemption by completing the form for you.

 OCDSB 992 - Online Learning Graduation Requirement - Opt-Out form. 

You need to have at least 40 hours of community involvement activities (volunteering) to graduate and earn your OSSD.

You can start collecting volunteer hours in the summer before you begin Grade 9.

When looking for volunteer opportunities:

If you’re under 18, ask your parents to help you plan and select your activities. Talk with your guidance counsellor or principal about other ways your school can help you earn community involvement hours.

Volunteering in your community helps you learn about civic engagement and understand your role as a citizen. By being involved in your community and serving others, you:

  • develop transferable skills
  • explore different sectors and potential career opportunities
  • understand more about yourself and your role in society

Learn more about getting your high school volunteer hours.

Volunteer Opportunities